This week the government announced the introduction of a two year post-study work visa for international students. The new visa route will be available to students graduating at undergraduate level (RQF 6) and students will be able to work, or look for work in any sector, at any level for two years.

Exporting Education UK (ExEdUK), a cross-sector network of international educators, last year supported the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for International Students with their first inquiry.  The inquiry report, A Sustainable Future for International Students in the UK, called for a major change in the Government’s approach to international students.  The report urged the Government to introduce an attractive post-study work visa which allows up to two years of work experience in the UK.

James Pitman, Chair of ExEdUK, said:

“The announcement of the 2 year post-study work visa for international students is very welcome news.  Ever since the withdrawal of a similar scheme in 2012, the UK has been competitively disadvantaged and this new offering will add huge value to the UK offering and enable the UK to accelerate the growth of the International Education sector in line with the government’s recently published new International Education strategy, which was also welcomed by ExEdUK.  Not only will this new scheme offer opportunities for international students to gain valuable skills and experience after graduation, but it will boost the UK economy with those students contributing their talents for the benefit of all in the UK.”

Notes to editors:

About Exporting Education UK

Exporting Education UK is a cross sector group of UK organisations involved in international education who have come together to promote the value of the sector to the UK and its contribution to the UK’s long-term competitiveness in the global economy. www.exeduk.com

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