The Independent reports that international students are facing visa processing times of up to four months—far beyond the Home Office’s three-week service standard—forcing many to defer or abandon places at UK universities. Sector body Universities UK warns the disruption could cost higher-education providers £1 billion this academic year, undermining government ambitions to attract 600,000 overseas students annually. Case studies include applicants from Cyprus, India and Russia who missed enrolment deadlines despite paying £500 for the ‘Priority’ service, only to receive refusals citing minor paperwork issues. Visa grants for study fell 19 % year-on-year to September 2026 following new restrictions that bar dependants and suspend applications from four high-risk countries. For corporate sponsors the fallout is twofold. First, talent pipelines that rely on UK postgraduate programmes—particularly in STEM—may shrink, squeezing recruitment budgets. Second, employers sponsoring Graduate-route visa holders could see smaller applicant pools and stiffer salary competition. Universities are lobbying the Home Office for a published service standard similar to work routes and for earlier issuance of Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) numbers so students can apply sooner. In the meantime, mobility advisers should alert assignees planning executive MBAs or short courses to apply at least 12 weeks before start-dates and budget for contingency travel.
Source: The Independent
