The UK Government has commissioned a ‘rapid review’ of the UK Graduate route to be conducted by the independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC).
In a letter to the MAC Chair Professor Brian Bell, dated 11 March 2024, the Home Secretary James Cleverly has directed the body to consider five key areas:
- Whether there is any proof of abuse of the route
- Insight into who is using the route and which universities they attended
- Insight into the demographics and trends of students switching from the student to graduate route
- Insight into the activities of student visa holders who switch into the Graduate route, and whether they are contributing to the economy
- Consideration whether the Graduate route is undermining the integrity and quality of the UK higher education system.
The MAC is expected to publish its findings by 14 May 2024, which may result in reform of the visa route.
We will update as more information becomes available.
Last updated: 23 March 2024
