Foreign students will be allowed to stay in the UK for up to two years after graduation in order to find work.
Under current rules foreign students are only allowed to stay for up to four months upon finishing their degree.
“The important contribution international students make to our country and universities is both cultural and economic. Their presence benefits Britain,” said Education Secretary Gavin Williamson in a statement yesterday. “Our universities thrive on being open global institutions. Introducing the graduate route ensures our prestigious higher education sector will continue to attract the best talent from around the world to global Britain.”
According to the government, the new graduate route would enable students to work, or look for work, at any skill level. They can then switch to a skilled work visa if they find a job that meets the requirements.
The graduate route will apply to foreign students who start an undergraduate level or above course from next year in any subject at ‘a trusted UK university or higher education provider which has a proven track record in upholding immigration checks.’
There will not be a cap on the number of foreign students who can apply for the graduate route.
Article published 12th September 2019