UK to Cut Post-Study Stay for International Students to 18 Months from 2027

Starting January 1, 2027, international students in the UK will have less time to stay after graduation. The Home Office has confirmed that the post-study work period, currently two years, will be reduced to 18 months for most foreign graduates.

What’s Changing in the Graduate Visa

Under the new rule, students who apply for the Graduate visa on or after January 1, 2027, can stay in the UK for up to 18 months after finishing their studies. Those who apply before December 31, 2026, will still receive the full two years.

PhD holders will still receive three years of post-study stay. However, the Home Office does not allow extensions of the Graduate visa, so after 18 months, students must either leave the UK or switch to another visa type, such as the Skilled Worker visa.

Why the UK is Tightening the Rules

The Home Office said the change follows data showing that many foreign graduates weren’t securing skilled or graduate-level jobs during their post-study period.

The government aims to ensure that the Graduate visa aligns more closely with its original purpose, helping qualified students transition into skilled employment, not remain in the UK without a job.

Higher Financial Requirements

From the 2025–2026 academic year, international students will also need to show higher proof of funds to qualify for a UK student visa.

Here’s what that currently looks like:

• In London: £1,483 per month (for up to 9 months)
• Outside London: £1,136 per month (for up to 9 months)

These funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, with the end date falling within 31 days of your visa application. The increase in financial requirements means that many prospective students will need to plan more carefully before applying.

Studying in the UK Will Become Expensive

The UK has also introduced a “levy on university income” from international students, which universities are likely to pass on through higher tuition fees. For the 2025/26 academic year, undergraduate tuition has already gone up by 3.1%, rising from £9,250 to £9,535.

This adds another layer of cost on top of living expenses, making the UK one of the pricier destinations for global students.

Stricter English Language Rules

The government also plans to tighten English language requirements for those applying for study, work, or settlement visas. While details are still being finalised, it’s clear that international students will face a higher bar for language proficiency.

Stricter Entry Standards and Changing Trends

After the UK banned most international students from bringing dependents in January 2024, visa applications dropped sharply. But the latest Home Office data shows a recovery. The first half of 2025 saw an 18% increase in total study visas compared to the same period in 2024.

That rebound suggests that despite higher costs and stricter rules, the UK remains a top destination for students seeking world-class education and global career opportunities.

Final Thoughts

From 2027, graduates will need to plan their UK journey more strategically. With shorter post-study stay options, stricter rules, and higher costs, getting a job quickly after graduation or switching to a Skilled Worker visa will become more important than ever.