Can MRes students bring their dependants to the UK? Will this change soon?
Studying in the UK is a popular choice for international students - and many want to bring their families with them. But with recent changes to UK student visa rules, particularly for dependants, many are asking: can MRes students still bring their dependants to the UK? And will this right be taken away soon?
In this article, Scholarship Scanner explores the current visa rules, what might change, and how MRes degrees in the UK are affected by increasing government scrutiny.
Can MRes students bring dependants to the UK?
Yes - in many cases, MRes students can still bring dependants to the UK in 2025.
Under current UK student dependent visa rules, only postgraduate students studying research degrees can bring their partners or children with them. An MRes degree (Master of Research) is often classified as a research degree, making it one of the few one-year UK Masters degrees that may still allow international students to bring their dependants to the UK.
However, eligibility can vary between universities. Before you apply for a dependent visa in the UK, always check how your university classifies the course and whether it meets UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) requirements.
Why might the UK MRes dependant visa rules change?
A recent report by Times Higher Education revealed that some education agents are promoting MRes degrees primarily as a way to bypass the UK government’s 2024 ban on student dependants. Marketing materials from agents have focussed on the dependant visa eligibility for MRes students, rather than the academic content of the course.
This has raised concerns within the UK university sector. Some vice-chancellors and government advisers fear that MRes programmes may be used as an immigration loophole - and this could lead to stricter rules in the future.
Will the UK Government change MRes dependant visa rules?
Professor Brian Bell, Chair of the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), recently warned that if there is a significant rise in dependant visa applications linked to MRes enrolments, the UK government may respond by tightening the rules.
He stated that if universities appear to be changing their taught Masters courses to MREs courses in order to appeal to those who want to bring dependants to the UK, it may result in further restrictions.
Universities are now being urged to review how they promote their Master of Research degrees and ensure students are fully aware of the academic focus of the programme.
Will the UK stop MRes students from bringing dependants to the UK soon?
The short answer is: possibly. Although there’s no official government decision yet, the UK Home Office and the MAC are closely monitoring trends. If they see a significant increase in dependent visa applications linked to MRes courses, they may remove eligibility for MRes students in future policy updates.
So, if you’re planning to study an MRes in the UK and bring dependants, it’s wise to apply as soon as possible and stay updated with official UKVI guidance.
What is an MRes degree in the UK?
A Master of Research (MRes) is a type of UK postgraduate degree designed for students who want to develop advanced research skills. Unlike traditional ‘taught’ Master’s degrees (such as an MA or an MSc), an MRes focuses heavily on independent research, combined with specialist taught modules.
You can read more in our article: What is an MRes degree?
Are UK MRes scholarships available for international students?
Yes! According to research by Scholarship Scanner, at least 22 UK university MRes scholarship schemes are available from UK universities in 2025 - including fully funded MRes scholarships for international students.
Read our article: Which UK universities offer MRes scholarships for international students?
Given the rising UK Masters fees, a scholarship can make your studies much more affordable.
🔍 Use our Scholarship Finder to start your scholarship search UK and explore funding options for your MRes course.
Summary
MRes students can currently bring dependants to the UK, but this could change.
UK authorities are reviewing how student dependant visas are being used.
Stay informed, and check university and UKVI guidance before applying.
Use our tools to compare UK Masters fees and find fully funded scholarships.
Disclaimer: The visa information in this article is accurate as of 8th August 2025 and is based on details available from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Visa rules are subject to change - please check the official UKVI website for the most up-to-date information.
We understand the challenges that international students face when applying to UK universities. Scholarship Scanner provides expert advice on applying to UK universities, and our scholarship blog shares latest updates on UK university funding opportunities. Our website can also help you to start your UK scholarship search and find the best financial support for your studies.