Student survey shows importance of post-study work visa for Scotland
The SNP is calling for the urgent re-introduction of a post study work visa scheme as a priority in its alternative Queen's Speech at Westminster .
This comes as a survey conducted by 'Hobsons International Students ' shows the importance of such a visa as an incentive for international students when deciding whether to come to Scotland and the UK to study.
The survey shows that the principal factors that discourage students coming to Scotland are the ease of getting a visa to study followed by the ability to get residence after studying - and that in both cases Scotland is relatively more hampered by concerns on these key issues than the rest of the UK.
SNP MP Gavin Newlands - commented :
''In the SNP's alternative Queen's speech - we are calling for the re- introduction of a post study work visa scheme - and this report shows how important that is to students as they decide where to study.
''There is an overwhelming consensus from Scotland’s academic and business communities for a post study work scheme for Scotland. There is cross party agreement in Scotland and a real desire to see a scheme secured. It is completely baffling why the Tories at Westminster are flying in the face of this.
“Without a post study work scheme we are at great risk of falling behind other nations and it makes Scotland a less attractive destination for the brightest and best from around the world. Such a scheme would allow us to keep some of the international students that we educate to such a high standard and invite them to help us grow our economy.
''It is yet another reason why it is not in the interests of Scotland to be dragged out of the EU against our will. Being bound to the UK’s current ‘keep them out’ immigration culture is hitting Scotland’s higher education institutions - but a Brexit vote would be even more deeply damaging.
“The message from the SNP is clear: allow us to keep some of the international students that we educate to such a high standard and invite them to help us grow our economy. ”
