40% surge in Saudi applications to UK universities

DEGREE DASH: Some Saudi students might not be able to begin their studies in the UK on time after delays to visas. (Getty Images)

A 40 percent surge in the number of Saudi applications to British universities and new rules for UK study permits is delaying the visa application process for Saudi students, prompting fears that some may not be able to begin their studies on time.

The British embassy in Riyadh has hired extra staff to deal with the number of visa applications from Saudi students, which has risen by 40 percent from the same period last year, the Al Arabiya Arabic website reported.

Tightened rules this year for universities and colleges who want to teach non European Economic Area (EEA) nationals has also made the process more time consuming.

The new points based system seeks to clamp down on “bogus” students who enroll at a university or college only to be able to enter the country and seek work.

As of March this year, visas will only be granted to students who “show a proven track record in education” and are applying for a course that meets a minimum level of qualification.

They must also be able to demonstrate they can support themselves financially.

A government official told Al Arabiya the Ministry of Higher Education had asked Saudi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to look into the issue.

British universities have become increasingly popular with Saudi students due to their good reputation, relative affordability, a perceived anti-Muslim bias in the US following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and strong population growth in the Kingdom.

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