Background: UK’s Popularity Among International Students
The UK has long been a top destination for international students, with over 679,000 enrolled in 2025, as reported by Universities UK. Indian students have led this surge, accounting for nearly 140,000 new study visas in 2025, per UK Home Office statistics. The Graduate Route, introduced in 2021, allowed students to stay and work for up to two years after graduation, fueling this growth.
Details of the New Visa Policy
On February 12, 2026, the UK Home Secretary announced that, effective immediately, the Graduate Route will be restricted. Only students graduating from select high-demand STEM and healthcare programs will be eligible for post-study work rights. Additionally, the ability for international students to bring dependents will be limited to those pursuing doctoral or research-based degrees.
Rationale Behind the Policy Shift
The UK government cited a record net migration figure of 745,000 in 2025 as a key driver for the changes, according to The Guardian. Officials argue that the previous visa regime was being misused as a backdoor to settlement, with a significant rise in dependents accompanying students, especially from India and Nigeria.
Immediate Reactions from Indian Students and Universities
Indian students and education consultants have expressed concern. The National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK (NISAU UK) called the move “disheartening” and warned it could deter talent from choosing the UK, as reported by The Economic Times. Several UK universities, already grappling with declining domestic enrollments, voiced fears of a sharp drop in international applications.
Economic Impact on the UK Higher Education Sector
International students contribute over £41 billion annually to the UK economy, according to Universities UK International. The new restrictions could result in a loss of up to £8 billion per year if Indian student numbers fall by 30%, as projected by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI).
Effect on Indian Students’ Study Abroad Plans
Education consultancies in India, including IDP and Study Group, report a surge in inquiries about alternative destinations such as Australia, Canada, and Ireland. “We’ve seen a 40% increase in interest for Australia in the past week,” said an IDP spokesperson to The Times of India.
Comparisons with Other Countries’ Visa Policies
Australia and Canada have recently expanded post-study work rights for international graduates, making their programs more attractive. According to ICEF Monitor, Australia now offers up to four years of post-study work for STEM graduates, while Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit Program remains unchanged and popular.
Universities’ Response: Calls for Policy Reconsideration
Russell Group universities and the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) have urged the government to reconsider, warning of reputational damage and loss of global competitiveness. Some institutions are lobbying for transitional arrangements for students already enrolled, as reported by The PIE News.
Indian Government’s Diplomatic Engagement
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has raised the issue with UK counterparts, seeking clarity and advocating for fair treatment of Indian students. The Indian High Commission in London issued an advisory, urging students to verify visa conditions before applying.
Student Voices: Stories from the Ground
Many current Indian students in the UK are reconsidering their plans. “I was hoping to gain work experience here after my MBA, but now I may have to return home immediately,” said Priya Sharma, a student at the University of Manchester, to BBC News.
Broader Implications for UK-India Educational Ties
Experts warn the policy could strain UK-India relations, just as both countries were negotiating a bilateral education partnership. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) called for a “balanced approach” to safeguard mutual interests, as reported by The Hindu.
Potential Shifts in Global Student Mobility
Analysts predict a redistribution of international students, with Australia, Canada, and Ireland likely to benefit. According to QS Quacquarelli Symonds, Indian student applications to Australian universities rose by 18% year-on-year in January 2026.
What’s Next: Policy Review and Monitoring
The UK government has indicated it will review the impact of the new rules after one year. Universities and student groups are planning to collect data and lobby for evidence-based adjustments, according to Universities UK.
Advice for Prospective Students
Experts recommend that students closely monitor official government updates and seek guidance from trusted education consultants. The British Council has updated its advisory portal to reflect the latest changes and eligibility criteria.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for UK Study Abroad Aspirations
The UK’s new student visa policy marks a significant shift in global education trends. Its long-term effects on student flows, university finances, and bilateral relations will unfold in the coming months.
Sources
Information for this article was sourced from The Guardian, The Economic Times, BBC News, The Times of India, Universities UK, HEPI, ICEF Monitor, The PIE News, The Hindu, and QS Quacquarelli Symonds.
Sources: Information sourced from The Guardian, The Economic Times, BBC News, The Times of India, and Universities UK reports.