Saudi applications for UK study visas increases by 40%

June 23 2009 by Gareth McConnell

Saudi students on UK visas

The number of applications for UK student visas from Saudi nationals has risen sharply over the last year, leading to delays in the application process, according to the British embassy in Riyadh.

Although the new tightened points-based system for student visa applications introduced in March 2009 has made the process of applying to study in the UK more time-consuming, the number applying from Saudi Arabia has shot up by 40% since the same time in 2008.

This is despite the fact that students must now be able to demonstrate they have a “proven track record in education” and that they can financially support themselves and any dependants that have moved to the UK with them, while on a UK visa for studying.

The British embassy says it has recruited more staff to deal with the influx of UK student visa applications.

Saudi students reportedly prefer studying in the UK because Muslims believe they will be treated without bias. They are concerned about studying in the US because of perceived anti-Muslim sentiment. UK universities are also seen as more affordable and have a good reputation among foreign students.

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