Update from Universities Scotland and the Scottish Government, 1 July
“We are proud that Scotland is a destination of choice for students and staff from overseas and I am firmly committed to ensuring this remains the case.
“That is why, in addition to confirming funding arrangements for our EU students today, we have renewed our call for the reintroduction of a post study work visa. This would boost the international appeal of Scotland’s universities and help retain talent from across the world.
“The UK Government must also clarify as soon as possible, the immigration status of EU nationals who will be living, working and studying in Scotland when the UK formally leaves the EU.” Deputy First Minister and Education Secretary John Swinney, Scottish Government.
The Scottish Government and Universities Scotland have made a joint statement on the outcome of the EU Referendum. Key information includes:
The outcome of the referendum will not affect the nature or level of support for continuing EU students and those entering higher education later this year.
• There has been no change in current funding arrangements
• Eligible EU students already studying in Scotland or commencing their studies in the coming months will continue to benefit from free tuition and, for those who meet the residency requirement, associated living cost support
• Those assessed as eligible will remain so for the duration of their course
This information has also been confirmed by the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). 'The rules applying to EU nationals who are studying an eligible course of Higher Education at college or university in 2016-17 are unchanged. This applies to continuing students who commenced their course before 2016-17, and to new students starting their course from 2016-17.' The full statement from SAAS can be read here.
The UK Government has indicated that UK students studying in the EU, and those looking to start in the next academic year, will continue to be subject to current arrangements.
In the statement, the Scottish Government and Universities Scotland have also:
• Called for the reintroduction of a post study work visa, which would allow international students to remain in Scotland and contribute to the economy for a defined period on completion of their studies.
• Urged the UK Government to clarify the immigration status of its EU nationals
• Confirmed that Scotland will continue to support research collaboration with partners across the UK and in Europe
Read the joint statement from Universities Scotland and the Scottish Government in full on the Universities Scotland website http://www.universities-scotland.ac.uk/news/joint-statement-scottish-government-universities-scotland-outcome-eu-referendum/
The Scottish Government have also released a statement, Reassurance for EU Students. This statement is available in full on the Scottish Government website http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/Reassurance-for-EU-students-25e2.aspx
