The UK Home Office has recently introduced a positive change for PhD students who need to transfer institutions due to their academic supervisor moving to another university. This update to Appendix Student removes the Academic Progress requirements in such cases, making it easier for PhD students to continue their research without unnecessary disruptions.
What has changed?
Previously, PhD students who needed to change their sponsoring university had to meet Academic Progress requirements, which could complicate their ability to apply for a visa extension from within the UK. In some cases, this meant that students had to leave the country and reapply for a visa from abroad, causing significant disruption to their studies and research.
With this new rule, PhD students following their supervisors to another education sponsor are now exempt from Academic Progress requirements. This means they can apply for further permission to stay in the UK and continue their studies without having to leave the country.
Why is this important?
PhD research is often highly dependent on the guidance of a specific supervisor. If a supervisor moves to a different institution, continuing research under their guidance can be essential for the success of the student’s thesis. This change acknowledges the unique nature of PhD studies and ensures that students are not forced to interrupt their research due to bureaucratic hurdles.
Who benefits from this change?
- Current PhD students who find themselves needing to follow their supervisor to a different institution.
- Universities and research institutions that can now retain talented researchers without unnecessary delays.
- The wider academic community, as it promotes continuity in research and prevents setbacks caused by visa complications.
Conclusion
This is a welcome and sensible change to UK student visa rules, providing PhD students with much-needed flexibility to continue their research without unnecessary disruption. By removing the requirement to leave the country in such cases, the Home Office has taken a step towards supporting the UK’s academic and research sectors.
Updated: 25 March 2025
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