• Issue 2

The British government has given all international students studying in the UK a one-year extension of stay in the country after graduation, London Project has learned. It is expected that the scheme, which is now in effect, will boost the enrollment of foreign students in the UK.

The new scheme applies no restrictions in relation to subject of qualification to those who have acquired a bachelor degree or higher qualification from a recognised UK higher educational institution. It replaced the old Science and Engineering Scheme which applied only to those with a 2:2 or above degree class on certain scientific disciplines.

Bill Rammell, Minister for Lifelong Learning, Further and Higher Education said:
"A staying on scheme which is available to all graduates irrespective of subject of study will enhance the UK's attraction as a study destination in what has become an intensely competitive international student market."

According to latest statistics published by Higher Education Statistics Agency, more than 330,000 out of 2.3 million students who enrolled in higher education for the academic year 2005-06 were from overseas countries.

And another survey conducted by the Council for International Education in 2004 says many students want more opportunities for work experience after studying. It also points employers are often unclear about the regulations on employing international students both during and after their studies.

Drummond Bone, President of Universities UK, said: "We're pleased the Government recognises the importance international students place on further enhancing their qualifications through work in the UK. This is a key factor for them when deciding where to study."

Prime Minster Tony Blair introduced an initiative last year to recruit 100,000 more foreign students to the UK in the next five years.

And British Council predicts the number of overseas student coming to the UK could treble.

image: kerfern