By Salma El-Sakka
The UK government will allow graduates from selected universities to stay in the country for two years under a revised post-study visa policy, reversing a previous plan to shorten the permit to 18 months. The change applies to institutions deemed “high-compliance” with strong labour market outcomes, according to Budget documents released on Wednesday.
Policy Details
The graduate visa extension takes effect in January and covers universities where international students show strong employment results after graduation. The Budget also expands the “high potential individual” visa route to include graduates from the world’s top 150 institutions, aiming to attract global talent.
Reactions from Education Sector
Nick Hillman, director of the Higher Education Policy Institute, described the move as a “mini U-turn” and questioned the logic of linking visa length to graduate employment rates when data on international student outcomes is limited. Favour Samuel, president of the National Union of Students England, said the policy creates confusion and damages the UK’s international reputation. Hollie Chandler, strategic policy director at the Russell Group, welcomed the decision, saying it protects the UK’s status as a global study destination.
Additional Budget Announcements
In the same Budget, John Healey announced £15 million for organisations including the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and BookTrust to improve young children’s access to books. Sarah Ronan, executive director of the Early Education and Childcare Coalition, welcomed the funding but urged transformative action on childcare in the next spending review.
