UK Sees 63% Jump In Visa For Indian Students

New Delhi: The latest United Kingdom (UK) Immigration Statistics, released on Thursday, said that over 30,000 Indian students have received visa till September this year, a 63 per cent jump over the same period last year.

According to a statement issued by the UK government, the jump is almost four times as fast as the global rate. Last year, around 19,000 students had received visa to enrol in UK universities. UK is home to three of the world’s top 10 universities.

The statement said that more than 2.70 lakh Indian students have enrolled in UK institutes over the last decade, making it one of the most vibrant groups in UK universities.

“This is now the third consecutive year in which the numbers have increased. It is important to us because these young leaders of tomorrow will reinforce the living bridge that connects India and the UK,” British High Commissioner to India Sir Dominic Asquith said.

UK education institutions are equally benefitting from the diversity of talent and culture that Indian students are bringing to campuses. The positive growth in student visa statistics, along with enhanced collaboration between the Indian and UK higher education sectors, ensures that education continues to be key in the relationship between our two countries, Director of British Council India Barbara Wickham said.

The latest visa statistics also showed that the UK remains a popular destination for Indian holiday makers. More than 5.12 lakh Indians received visit visas, an increase of 9 per cent over the previous year.