Since the Labour Party formed the federal government in July 2024, it has taken significant steps to show its support for international education. In the 2022–2023 academic year, nearly 759,000 international students attended universities in the United Kingdom, and the new government has taken measures to recognize these students’ role in fostering global collaboration and boosting the UK’s economy. Below, we’ll look at some of the actions which demonstrate this commitment.
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Simplified Visa Processes for International Students
The UK government has recently taken steps to streamline and secure the visa application process through measures like the eVisa system. The eVisa document is an online record of immigration status and your permission to enter, stay, or work in the UK. It will replace documents like biometric residence cards and entry clearance stickers in passports.
While students must travel with physical documents until the end of 2024, it’s possible as early as 2025, students will just need their current passport, registered to their UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, as a physical document verifying their intent as an international student. By making it easier to prove your status at the UK border, or with a landlord or institution, the government aims to create a more welcoming environment.
The Graduate visa, which allows international students to stay and work in the UK for two years after completing their degree (or three years for Ph.D. graduates), will be supported by the Labour government. The Graduate Route gives international students the chance to gain work experience, contribute to the local economy, and enhance their career prospects.
The government has also shared that the measures introduced by the previous government, including updated rules on which students may bring dependants, and paying migrants the same as UK workers in shortage occupations, will be maintained.
Stay on track with our guide to the UK undergraduate application process.
Focus on Affordability and Student Support
The Labour government is also committed to addressing affordability challenges faced by international students. Rising tuition fees and living costs are a barrier for many students considering the UK. One way to ensure access to education is with scholarships. And, key programs such as the Chevening Scholarships continue to receive government backing. The Chevening Scholarships enable selected international students to study a one-year master’s degree at top UK universities without bearing the full financial cost.
Check out our list of the top UK scholarships open to international students!
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The UK has long been a destination for students from around the world. The new Labour government is keen to maintain this diversity. As the Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson stated at a conference in July:
“Be in no doubt: international students are welcome in the UK. This new government values their contribution–to our universities, to our communities, to our country …
Closed systems that only look inward quickly run out of ideas. Creativity crumbles, innovation dies, the same thoughts spin round and round and collapse in on themselves.
But through our international partners, we can reach out around the world and bring back a freshness of thought that breathes new life into our society. That includes our universities, and it includes international students. How could it not?”
By encouraging a more inclusive academic environment, the Labour government aims to create spaces where all students can thrive. This includes outreach through campaigns like Study UK, which encourages students living in regions that have historically been underrepresented on UK campuses to consider the UK.
Partnerships with Global Governments and Institutions
The Labour government understands how important strong partnerships with countries—and educational institutions—worldwide can be. Leaders at universities from around the UK have “welcomed the new government’s pledge to improve the relationship between the UK and [the European Union], highlighting research and development and security as some of the areas where closer ties are expected to be developed.”
The government also recently announced Sir Steve Smith’s reappointment as the International Education Champion. He’ll lead engagement with governments around the world to promote “UK excellence and partnerships in all education sub-sectors.” He’ll also contribute to a review of the government’s International Education Strategy.
As the International Education Champion, Sir Steve and his team aim to create more partnership opportunities and joint research initiatives. By fostering international collaboration, the government will build on the UK’s position as a global leader in education and research.
Addressing the Housing Crisis for International Students
One of the largest challenges international students face when coming to the UK is finding affordable housing. With ongoing shortages in cities like London, Glasgow, and York, international students often struggle to secure housing. This adds to their financial and emotional burdens.
The Labour government has pledged to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years. Included in this plan is the intent to deliver “the biggest increase in social and affordable housebuilding in a generation.” This is great news for international students, many of whom are just entering the housing market.
While related policies are still developing, sector leaders are hopeful the UK government will work with local authorities and universities to increase the availability of affordable student housing. This could include funding the development of new student accommodations and ensuring access to diverse housing options near campuses.
The UK Labour government’s support for international education dovetails with its commitment to creating a more accessible education system. By streamlining visa processes, promoting diversity, and addressing affordability issues, the government aims to ensure the UK remains a top destination. Ultimately, these policies benefit the students, while also contributing to the UK’s economy, culture, and global reputation.
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