Non-EU immigration cap and what it could mean for prospective US international students?
I happen to work in the UK government department with responsibility for universities, but as we don't control the visas, I'm as much in the dark as anyone. The immigration cap is about permanent settlement and the government doesn't have as much of a problem with students. A student visa is not classed as an immigrant visa, neither here nor in the US, and so is not affected. The largest numbers of student visa applications are received from China, India and Pakistan, and the UK has a long-standing problem with people from India and Pakistan trying to stay in the UK whether by fair means or foul, frequently foul. Student visa applications from Pakistan are the most frequently refused. That should put the "4 out of 5 students stay" "statistic" in perspective. There has also been a recent crackdown on so-called colleges that will provide proof of enrolment so a "student" can get into the UK. As mentioned in an answer above, "Gateway2uk Education" is a bit blatant! I've come across them. Well over 50% of colleges have been struck off the Home Office's approved list a few months ago but that hasn't affected the well-known universities. Meanwhile, the new government is still proposing to increase the number of university places. I don't think any of this is a problem for you as we don't have a problem with US students. I understand, however, that the Cabinet will be thinking about student visas next, though for the moment, a consultation has been launched today on economic migrants that excludes consideration of students.
Is it easy/hard for international students to get a job in Dublin, Ireland?
As in any job market, your ability to find a job would depend on your degree, work experience and additional skills you can offer your prospective employer. If you present yourself well and have more than the rest of the candidates, you will get the position. If you need a work permit, it's very difficult to get it because the rules are very strict, but if you don't, then nothing is stopping you from getting in. Competition is normally fair. A word of warning, however - Ireland is a very "interesting" place and while all the right noises are made about equal opportunities and rights, it is unlikely you are ever going to feel at home if you are in any way different from an average Irish person. It is all very subtle, but chances are you're going to work [much] longer hours for [a lot] lower salary and get no support if you ever need it. This is based on my experience of working in the local financial services industry. I have also spoken to a number of expats working in Dublin who appear to have had similar experiences.If you allow a suggestion, London and the UK in general has a more vibrant and tolerant society. Again, from personal experience, the people are a lot easier to get in contact with, they are a lot more open and friendly. Finding a job in the UK is also likely to be easier simply because the market is larger.
What are the steps to get a UK student visa?
Also known as the Tier 4 (General) Visa, the UK student visa is appropriate for persons whose interest in studying in the UK have been substantiated with an offer letter and a Confirmation of Acceptance of studies by a UK educational institution.If you are looking to apply for a UK student visa, the following steps apply:-Step 1 – Decide on a course of studyAs obvious as this sounds, it is important that you are fully aware of the reason for choosing your course of study. The reason for this is that if you are to be interviewed by the Home Office, you will be asked why you chose the course of study. This is a part of the Home office’ test of a genuine student. The Home office has a duty to be sure that people do not abuse the immigration system. Therefore for everyone applying to the UK via any immigration route, the UK BA would normally check to be sure that they are genuine in their application and are not miscreants trying to sneak into the country to abuse the system.Step 2 – Make an applicationIt is fine to apply to more than one educational institution. However you must also be sure why you are applying to those schools because you may be asked.If you need help with this call 02037442797 or send an email to info@reissedwards.com or visit Reiss EdwardsStep 3 –The offer and Confirmation of Acceptance of StudyOnce an educational institution in the UK realises that you meet their requirements, they will offer you a place in their institution. It is also important that once you have been granted an offer, you accept the offer. Offer acceptance vary by institution. Some institution may require you to pay all or part of the tuition fees as well as formally accept the offer by filling out certain details or submitting certain documents. It is important that the offer is unconditional before you apply for a visa.Step 4 – Financial requirementYou must have any outstanding balance for your tuition fees plus meet the maintenance requirement (living cost) of £1,015 if you will be based outside London or £1,265 if you will be living/studying in London for a consecutive period of 28 days prior to the application.Documents need to make the application include1. International Passport2. Passport photograph3. Unconditional offer from a licenced Tier 4 provider4. Proof that you meet the English language requirement5. 28 days bank statement.