The United Kingdom is turning out to be a bright spot for Indian students especially after the Indian-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and also with the US stiffening its stance on immigration, visa policy and now doubling of tariffs.

Study abroad consultants told ET that in the coming months the number of Indian students heading to the UK that had dropped significantly in 2024 vs 2023 is likely to go up.

“The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed last month is a significant development and is likely to have a long-term impact on Indian students’ interest in the UK as a destination of choice,” said Ravi Lochan Singh, managing director, Global Reach.

One positive change under the FTA is the exemption from paying UK social security contributions for three years for 75,000 Indian workers. “This makes the UK more attractive for students looking to work and stay after graduation,” said Piyush Kumar – Regional Director, South Asia, Canada and Latin America (LATAM), IDP Education.

Additionally, social security benefits and qualification recognition create better career prospects in the UK than what the US currently offers, say experts.

“The UK offers predictability while the US offers uncertainty. The graduate route provides clear post-study work pathways,” said Nikhil Jain, founder, ForeignAdmits.

The number of Indian students outflow to the UK had decreased to 98,000 in 2024 from 1.36 lakh in the previous year. The UK admissions process typically starts in the autumn about September with a smaller intake in the spring.

Indian students are feeling more at the UK institutions, colleges and employers with the FTA in place, the experts said. “The FTA is very likely to motivate more Indian students to opt for UK colleges in the coming years,” said Kumar.

The FTA will also encourage more UK institutions to set up campuses or form partnerships in India.

The UK’s appeal as a high-quality study abroad destination has always been constant, and the new development it likely gets stronger. Currently, Indian students looking to study abroad are looking at stability and clarity.

The shorter duration of courses, combined with the post-study work on offer by the Graduate Route visa is a strong hook for candidates.

The opportunity to work for 20 hours during term time and full-time during holidays is another factor for many Indian students looking for global exposure and hands-on experience.

Some courses in the UK gaining popularity among Indian students include artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, business analytics, ethical hacking, environmental science, social work, physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, paramedics, pharmacy, medicine, logistics and supply chain management, and nursing.

Tuition fees for an international student vary from £10,000 to £20,000 and above for an undergraduate or postgraduate programme, respectively. Living expenses are usually between £10,000 and £15,000 yearly.

Indian graduates working in the UK are now exempted from paying UK National Insurance Contributions for up to this year. “This is real money saved every month. The qualification recognition game is changing, too,” said Jain.

Mutual Recognition Agreements will be finalised within 36 months making Indian degrees instantly credible to UK employers.

Besides, consultants see more employment opportunities for Indian students with more Indian companies expanding UK operations.

As a result, the number of Indian students lining up for UK colleges is higher this year.

For instance, UK enrolments for ForeignAdmits have jumped by 42% YoY, and similarly, in education financing, it is up by over 60% YoY.

The FTA will also foster greater academic exchange, promotion of joint degree programs, research collaborations, and a broader academic environment, particularly in fields like AI, engineering, and green technologies, according to Manisha Zaveri, joint managing director, Career Mosaic.

“While the US remains a preferred destination for international students, the UK’s clearer immigration pathways and extended work options make it an attractive study choice,” said Zaveri.