UK Student Visa Applications Fall 16% In 2025-26; August Demand Falls To 99,500 Ahead Of September Intake
Applications for UK-sponsored study visas fell sharply in the year ending August 2026, with the latest Home Office figures showing a 16% decline in applications from main applicants amid tighter immigration rules and growing uncertainty around post-study opportunities. A total of 360,700 applications were made by main applicants during the September 2025 to August 2026 cycle, down from the…
UK student visa applications dropped by 16% in the year ending August 2026, according to the latest Home Office figures. A total of 360,700 applications were made by main applicants, down from the previous year's 449,800. Applications from student dependants also decreased by 22% to 17,000, accounting for a combined total of 377,700 applications.
The decline in applications follows tighter immigration rules and uncertainty surrounding post-study opportunities. August saw around 99,500 applications, marking the typical busiest month for sponsored study visa applications before the September intake. The downward trend has weakened even during peak application periods, indicating a significant shift in demand for UK study visas.
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