UK tables points-based student visa route

LONDON: The UK government on Thursday tabled in the parliament its new points-based Student Route for visas, which it says simplifies the previous student visa application requirements for international students.
The route — which will apply to all overseas students, including Indians, from October 5 — will mean students require a total of 70 points to be granted a visa to study at a UK university. To achieve the required points, students will have to demonstrate that they’ve an offer from an approved educational institution, the ability to speak English and that they’re able to support themselves during their studies. “The new student route is a welcome announcement for thousands of Indian students,” said Barbara Wickham, director of British Council India.