About studying in the UK

Can I still study in the UK this year? The UK has introduced a new points-based visa system which will come into effect on 1 January 2021. This will also affect student visa routes, treating EU and non-EU citizens equally.

The UK’s new points-based visa system will allocate points set by the government for different skills, qualifications, salaries or occupations. Those who earn enough points will be issued a visa to the UK.

This new visa system will also affect EU students in the same way as students from outside the EU. Additionally, the government has revealed that those seeking to study in the UK will be required to obtain an offer from an approved educational institution, have sufficient financial means and speak English before being allowed to enter the UK on a student visa.

According to the latest statistics, there are currently 485,645 international students studying for degrees in the UK, and this number has grown steadily over the past few years. However, UK Home Secretary Priti Patel claimed that this change in the visa system would have a better impact on the UK. She said:

"We will attract the brightest and best talent from around the world, grow the economy and our communities, and unlock the full potential of this country."

In addition, from From January 2021, those seeking to work in the UK must meet a salary threshold of £25,600 per year, which is lower than the previous threshold of £30,000 per year. On the other hand, skilled workers also need to meet specific criteria related to skill sets and English proficiency. Those with the highest skills, such as scientists, engineers and academics, will be given an advantage compared with others seeking to work in the UK.

However, this coming change is not welcomed by everyone. Zamzam Ibrahim, president of the National Union of Students, admitted that the government had not paid enough attention to students' concerns by introducing a points-based visa system.

She believes the two-year post-study work visa is a "positive step" but the government appears to have taken a step back by introducing a new points-based visa system that specifies financial requirements for EU students threshold.

“While reinstating the two-year post-study work visa is a positive step, by introducing a financial barrier for EU students it will close access to UK higher education to all but the wealthiest international students opportunities for the system,” she said.

UK Home Secretary Priti Patel insists the UK government is "delivering on the people's priorities" through the new visa system, which prioritizes highly skilled workers. All applicants must initially have a job offer that meets Migration Advisory Committee recommendations (MAC), meet annual income thresholds, and possess English language skills.

In addition, a government advisory group estimates that 70% of the EU workforce currently in the UK will not be able to meet the new visa criteria.

However, for those wishing to live and work in the UK by 2021, the education threshold will be lowered from current degree level to A levels (or equivalent), which will ensure the UK has access to a wide range of skilled workers.< /p>