Graduate visa route reaffirmed by UK's new Secretary of State for Education

The UK Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, highlighted the new government's recognition of the significant contributions made by international students to the nation's higher education sector, university communities, and overall society.

Speaking at the Education Embassy Conference in London on 23 July, Phillipson emphasised, "International students are welcome in the UK. This new government values their contribution – to our universities, to our communities, to our country."

Phillipson further stressed the importance of international partnerships in promoting global progress and expanding opportunities. She stated, "Under this new government, opportunity is for everyone. Our international partnerships are central to spreading opportunity far and wide. The more we collaborate, the more progress we will achieve globally."

Graduate Route Commitment

Phillipson reaffirmed the government's commitment to the graduate route, which allows international students to stay in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies – or three years for PhD graduates – to work and contribute to the country. She praised the courage of international students who move far from home to pursue their education and assured that the UK will support their success.

"We are enormously proud that so many international students choose to take a leap of faith and study in the UK," she said. "While this government is committed to managing migration carefully, international students will always be welcome in this country."

Back to news