Indian Students Turn Away from UK Universities

Recent data indicates a decrease in the number of Indian students applying to UK universities. Official figures show a 4% decline in applications from India. While there was a slight increase of 0.7% in overall international student applications for undergraduate courses in UK, applications from Nigeria and India saw drops after seeing significant rises in recent years. As compared to last year, there was a 4% decrease in applications from India, totaling 8,770, and a 46% drop in applications from Nigeria, totaling 1,590.

"UK higher education remains attractive globally, with a 0.7 per cent increase in international applicants. The highest increases are China (3%, 910 applicants), Turkey (37%, 710 applicants) and Canada (14%, 340 applicants). There has been a decrease in applicants from Nigeria (-46%) and India (-4%)," as revealed by the latest UCAS data.

The decline in Indian student applications could be attributed to ongoing reviews by the Rishi Sunak-led government regarding the Graduate Route visa. This visa allows graduates to stay and gain work experience in UK for up to two years after completing their degree. Indian students make up the largest group receiving permission to stay under this visa category, representing 43% of grants last year.

Another reason for the decline are the recent restrictions that prevent international students from bringing dependents or close family members to UK on all courses except postgraduate research and UK government-funded scholarship programs.

Dr. Jo Saxton, Chief Executive at UCAS, pointed out that recent data shows fewer applications from mature students, especially in fields like nursing in UK. She mentioned that these applicants typically apply later in the cycle. Additionally, she stated that students who missed the deadline or are undecided about their higher education options can still apply to UK universities until June 30, and afterward directly to Clearing.