'Despite changes to student visa rules, UK a top destination for foreign students'

The United Kingdom released the new Immigration White Paper, which introduces a stricter framework for foreigners coming to the UK via work, study, and settlement routes.

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On May 12, the United Kingdom released the new Immigration White Paper, which introduces a stricter framework for foreigners coming to the UK via work, study, and settlement routes. It can also impact international students — as it has proposed to reduce the time of the Graduate Route visa (allowing students to work in the UK after completing their studies) to 18 months, instead of the earlier 24 months.

But Hugh Brady, the president of Imperial College London (the UK's best university, and the world's second best, as per QS), told FE's Vikram Chaudhary that there is no cap on student numbers, and the country still offers a welcoming environment for foreign students.

Excerpts: Will the new student visa rules impact the UK as a study destination? Will these also impact the foreign student intake at Imperial?

International students are an essential part of Imperial's global community. They bring diverse perspectives, new ideas, and fresh approaches needed to tackle today's most complex challenges (grand challenges). Our research-intensive education equips them with the skills, confidence, and mindset to become the next generation of entrepreneurs, researchers, and global leaders.