The UK government has indeed increased scrutiny on student visa applications, aiming to ensure that only genuine students are admitted. This move is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration rules and maintain the quality of international education in the UK.
Key Changes:
– Stricter Financial Requirements: Applicants must now show increased bank statements to prove they can support their tuition and living expenses. For example, students pursuing courses in London need to demonstrate £13,347 in funds (£1,483 per month for up to 9 months).
– Increased Compliance Expectations for Institutions: Universities face stricter rules regarding agent regulation, student visa compliance, and course completion requirements. Failure to meet these expectations may result in restrictions on recruiting foreign students.
– Restrictions on Dependents: Only students enrolled in research programs, such as PhD students, can bring dependents with them. Master’s and undergraduate students are no longer allowed to bring family members.
– Monitoring of Work Rights: There’s stricter monitoring of part-time work hours to prevent students from exceeding the permitted 20 hours per week during term time.
Impact on Students and Universities:
– Higher Bar for Entry: Increased scrutiny and financial requirements may make it harder for some students to meet eligibility criteria.
– Financial Challenges for Universities: Reduced international student numbers could strain university budgets, as many institutions rely heavily on international tuition fees.
– Changing Student Demographics: The restrictions on dependents may affect the demographics of international students in the UK, potentially influencing student choices and university recruitment strategies
Recent Trends:
– Despite these changes, UK student visa applications have seen a significant increase, with a 29% rise in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Indian students, in particular, have been driving this growth, with a 44% increase in visa approvals in Q2 2025.
– The UK remains a popular destination for international students, with its globally recognized universities, shorter program durations, and high-quality education
