New Approach to International Students in the UK -

Bridget Phillipson, the newly appointed Education Secretary, announced a significant shift in the UK government’s stance on international students, emphasising that they are welcome in the country. This announcement was made at the Embassy Education Conference in London, addressing concerns about the previous government’s stricter policies on foreign student visas, which had sparked anxiety among universities reliant on the substantial fees from international students.

Phillipson’s statement marks a departure from the former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s policies, which aimed to reduce legal net migration by restricting most students from bringing dependents. While Phillipson did not indicate any changes to these restrictions, she highlighted a change in the government’s approach. She expressed that international students have often been viewed more as a source of income rather than valued guests, and her administration intends to foster a more welcoming environment.