Graduate Route Visa to Remain in Current Form, Benefiting Indian Students

Relief for Indian students planning to study in the UK! The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has recommended continuing the graduate route work visa, known as the PSW (post-study work visa). This visa allows international students to work in the UK for two years after graduating from a British university. The review, commissioned by Home Secretary James Cleverly, found that the graduate route is achieving its objectives and supporting the UK’s International Education Strategy. It has played a significant role in attracting international students, with the target of six lakh students by 2030 being met ahead of schedule. While the contribution of the graduate route to this achievement is not quantified, its positive impact is acknowledged. The committee found no evidence of widespread abuse of the graduate route due to its stringent conditions. However, concerns were raised regarding exploitation by agents mis-selling UK higher education. Indian students heavily utilize the graduate route, with over 45,600 visas granted in 2023, accounting for 40%. The report highlights that graduate visa holders initially engage in lower-paid work but experience improved outcomes over time. Their earnings become comparable to domestic graduates after one year, and around 50% transition to skilled work through the Skilled Worker visa route.

Scroll to Top