The United Kingdom has announced that only international students coming for their Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies are eligible to bring dependents to the country.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery said the policy change aimed to curb the increase in foreign students bringing dependents to the country.
He explained that the huge surge in dependence was putting an unsustainable pressure on many universities, adding that, it was the reason these changes were introduced.
Montgomery added that before his posting as High Commissioner to Nigeria, he had spoken to some of these universities on the policy change, which had been in the pipeline for some time.
He noted that the university Chancellors had complained of the huge student populations’ highlighting that accommodation was a huge challenge, as access to medical services under the National Health Service, and access to school if they brought in dependents.
According to him, the restrictions do not apply to all categories, adding that those doing a long-term research degree, like a PhD, or doctorate were not affected.
“Those coming to the UK for a doctorate can still bring their dependency but if you are coming to the UK with a study visa for an undergraduate degree, or short-term master’s degree am afraid the rules have been changed.
He highlighted the unsustainable pressure on universities due to the surge in dependence. According to him, the restrictions do not apply to all categories, adding that those doing a long-term research degree, like a PhD, or doctorate, were not affected.
