UK Indian Students

In a remarkable upswing, the United Kingdom (UK) has emerged as the preferred destination for Indian students seeking international education. According to recent data released by the UK Home Office and Gradding, a staggering total of 142,848 sponsored study visas were granted to Indian students, indicating a significant increase of 54 percent compared to the figures from 2022. This surge marks a substantial rise in Indian students studying in the UK, with almost seven times the number of study visas held in 2019. The study reveals that out of nearly 500,000 sponsored study visas issued by the UK, almost a third were granted to Indian students.

The report also highlighted the popularity of the UK’s Graduate Route, with 42 percent of the 98,394 Graduate Route extensions granted from July 2020 to June 2021 going to Indian students. Additionally, 20 percent of students whose visas expired in 2022 opted to switch to the Graduate Route after completing their studies, a trend expected to continue into 2023 and beyond.

Mamta Shekhawat, founder of Gradding, attributed this trend to the UK’s excellent value for money in education. She emphasized that studying in the UK offers acceptable value for money, with lower average costs compared to other countries like the USA and Australia. Furthermore, graduates from the UK are highly employable globally, with 8 out of 10 international students progressing, getting promoted, and earning more due to their education in the UK.

One of the considered driving factors for Indian students choosing the UK is the wide range of scholarship opportunities available. The UK government and universities offer over 200 scholarships worth millions of pounds, covering tuition fees and living expenses, thus making studying in the UK more affordable for Indian students. Scholarships like the GREAT scholarships, the Commonwealth Scholarships, the British Council Women in STEM scholarships, and the Charles Wallace India Trust scholarships have attracted many talented individuals.

Furthermore, the high level of instruction and demanding academic standards at UK universities provides students with a competitive edge in the job market. Many UK universities have strong industry links and offer opportunities for students to gain valuable experience through real-world projects and problem-solving initiatives. Additionally, the UK’s post-study work visa policy has added to its appeal. Termed the ‘cherry on the cake,’ this policy allows Indian students to gain valuable work experience in a foreign country, enhancing their employability both in India and on the global stage.

With its reputation for high-quality education, extensive scholarship opportunities, and post-study work options, the UK has firmly established itself as the new favorite destination for Indian students aspiring for international education. The surge in sponsored study visas underscores the growing preference among Indian students for the UK’s world-class education system and diverse opportunities for personal and professional growth.