The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to welcoming overseas students, particularly those arriving in September 2024.
The announcement came during a recent speech by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson at the Embassy Education Conference in London, emphasizing the UK’s supportive stance towards international students.
Phillipson commended the courage and determination of international students, stating, “These people are brave. They move to a new culture, far away from their homes and their families. They take a leap of faith, hoping to develop new skills and chase new horizons. And I am enormously proud that so many want to take that leap here in the UK. And we will do everything we can to help them succeed.”
The UK’s graduate visa program is a key part of this support, allowing students to remain in the country for two years after completing their studies—or three years for PhD graduates. This visa provides graduates with the opportunity to work, live, and contribute to the UK’s economy and society.
Edward Hobart, UK Ambassador to the UAE, echoed this sentiment in a statement to Khaleej Times. He highlighted the significant contributions of international students to the UK, saying, “International students from the UAE make significant contributions to the UK by bringing their skills, experience, and diverse backgrounds to the country. For students here considering studying in the UK and those already preparing for the academic year ahead, this is a wonderful opportunity for those eager to continue their studies and then begin their professional journey in the UK.”
The number of international students in the UK is expected to increase, with the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) reporting 3,690 applications from UAE students for undergraduate courses starting in September 2024.
Hobart added, “International students are warmly welcomed and also have the option to stay and work, or seek employment, for two years after graduation under our graduate visa route. The reaffirmed commitment to the graduate visa route from the new Labour government is a clear reassurance and indication of the UK’s dedication to world-class education and fostering diverse and inclusive communities, where international students are not just welcomed, but valued and integral to our society.”