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UK Universities Fight Visa Cuts

A group of vice-chancellors from sixteen top UK universities have continued the fight against government plans to reduce the number of visas for international students coming to study in the UK.

In a joint letter to British newspaper ‘The Observer’, the professors wrote to “express profound concern at the damage that would be caused to the UK economy and to our universities if the government's proposals to reduce the number of international students coming to the UK are implemented”.

The letter came in response to British Home Secretary Theresa May revealing plans to make it harder for international students to get visas to study in the UK. The government has promised to cut migration to Britain by 2015 and students currently represent almost two thirds of non-EU migrants.

There is the concern that a high number of non-EU students coming to the UK are using obscure courses at untrustworthy institutions simply to get a visa. However, in their letter, the university vice-chancellors denied this, arguing that “evidence shows that international students in universities overwhelmingly do not abuse the system”.

They went on to say:

The Very Best of the London Olympics 2012

Excitement in the UK is building as the countdown to the London 2012 Olympics is gathering pace. Last night the full schedule for the world’s biggest sporting event was released, and from March 15th anyone can start applying for tickets.

Here are a few of the expected highlights:

UK government defeated on international student policy by House of Lords

The house of Lords voted to take international students out of the UK's net migration figures.

Peers backed an amendment tabled by Lord Hannay of Chiswick, stating that no student should be treated for public policy purposes as a long term migrant to the UK, for the duration of their studies.

The amendment passed with a large majority in favour 313 votes vs 219. The defeat is a set back for Downing street. Theresa May, who in her capacity as Home Secretary and most recently Prime Minister, did not support removing international students from net migration figures, which recent governments have pledge to bring down by "tens of thousands."

This policy has resulted in international numbers from certain countries reducing and UK institutions, loosing out to competitor countries, such as the US and Australia. The UK is currently second to the US as a provider of higher education. Lord Hannay warned that the UK is "loosing market share to our main competitors"

The Department of Education voiced its disappointment in the vote. However, the amendment will next be considered by MPs who may choose to accept or reject it. Should the bill pass, then the government would be forced into a situation where it has to encourage international students and cooperation between UK and overseas institutions. 

 

 

Accommodation Starter Kits

The new term is fast approaching. For many, it will be their first time moving away from home. Some will travel thousands of miles, in order to pursue a course at a chosen University, here in the UK.

 

For Some, Studying in the UK Just Got Cheaper!

Studying in the UK just became cheaper owing to the depreciation of the British pound, after last week's decision to leave the EU with the successful Brexit vote. Sterling fell to its lowest level against the US dollar since 1985.

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