The UK study visa landscape has seen a significant decline following the introduction of stricter immigration rules in January 2024. According to preliminary figures from the UK Home Office, the number of study visa main applicants for the fiscal year ending January 2025 dropped to 411,100, marking a 13% decline compared to the previous year.
The impact has been even more drastic for dependants of international students, with only 21,500 applications in the year ending January 2025—a staggering 84% decrease from the previous year.
New Visa Rules Reduce International Student Enrollment
The decline is largely attributed to policy changes that prohibit most students from bringing dependants. Under the new rules, only those enrolled in postgraduate research programs or government-funded scholarship courses can bring family members.
Additionally, new restrictions prevent international students from switching to work visas before completing their studies and include a review of financial maintenance requirements for students and dependants.
Fewer Study Visas Granted, But Numbers Still Higher Than Pre-Pandemic Levels
In the year ending September 2024, the UK granted 392,969 sponsored study visas, reflecting a 19% decrease compared to the previous year. However, this figure remains 46% higher than in 2019, indicating that despite the drop, interest in UK education remains above pre-pandemic levels.
Similarly, student dependant visas saw a 69% decline, with only 46,961 visas issued in the same period—though this is still nearly three times higher than in 2019.
Indian and Nigerian Student Numbers Drop Significantly
Indian and Nigerian nationals previously accounted for a major share of study visa approvals between 2019 and 2023. However, the year ending September 2024 saw a 31% drop in Indian student visas and a 62% decline for Nigerian students. Despite the decline, Indian nationals remained the largest group of sponsored study visa holders from September 2022 to June 2024.
Fewer Students Extending Their Stay in the UK
The number of international students granted visa extensions to continue their studies or switch to a sponsored study route also saw a decline. In the year ending September 2024, only 35,069 students received extensions—a 37% decrease compared to the previous year.
Overview of the Three Major UK Study Visa Rule Changes in 2024
• Dependants Ban: International students can no longer bring dependants unless enrolled in postgraduate research programs.
• No Switching to Work Visas Early: Students must complete their courses before switching to work routes.
• Stricter Financial Requirements: The UK government is reviewing maintenance funds criteria for students and their dependants.
The UK government claims these measures are aimed at reducing net migration, but the decline in student applications raises concerns about the impact on universities and the higher education sector.
