The United Kingdom will reduce the post-study work period for international students, including Nigerians, from two years to 18 months starting January 2027
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the change on October 14, citing the need for foreign students to meet an A-level standard in English Language.
According to a government statement, the adjustment is part of the government’s flagship immigration white paper and Plan for Change, aimed at controlling who enters the country while continuing to attract top global talent.
“The time for international students to find a graduate-level job after completing their studies will be cut to 18 months from the current two years,” the statement read. It added that data showed many graduates had not transitioned into graduate-level employment as intended.
The statement also confirmed a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC), which is paid by employers sponsoring skilled foreign workers and reinvested into training the domestic workforce. The increase, the first since 2017, is intended to boost investment in British workers and reduce reliance on overseas recruitment. The Parliamentary process to approve the rise will begin later this week.
The changes come as tuition fees for international undergraduate students continue to rise. Fees for the 2025/26 academic year have increased by 3.1%, from £9,250 to £9,535. In addition, stricter English language requirements will now apply to all international students entering the UK for study, work, or settlement.
Data indicates that fewer foreign students chose the UK as a study destination in 2024. Earlier changes to UK immigration rules in January 2024 also limited students from bringing dependants, except for those enrolled in postgraduate research programs or courses with government-funded scholarships.
