In 2024, the UK government introduced strict new immigration rules that banned the UK spouse/dependant visa for most international students, causing uncertainty for thousands of aspiring students, especially from Pakistan. However, exceptions were made for postgraduate research courses — but these often come with a complex requirement: submitting a detailed research proposal.
For many students, especially from Pakistan, preparing a research proposal is a challenging and time-consuming process. It requires working under the supervision of a university faculty member, developing a structured research plan, and often undergoing academic vetting before admission. This not only delays the application process but also adds unnecessary pressure for students who simply wish to pursue a Master’s degree and bring their families along.
That’s why in this blog, Global Migration brings you a list of UK universities offering postgraduate courses that allow dependant visas — without needing a research proposal. These options simplify the process while still allowing you to study in the UK and bring your loved ones with you.
Key Benefits of These Courses
✅No Research Proposal Required at Application
✅ Dependant Visa Eligibility (Spouse & Children)
✅ High Visa Success Rate
✅ Work Opportunities for Students & Dependants
✅ Affordable Tuition Fees
✅ Courses Aligned With Graduate Immigration Route (Post-Study Work)
Top UK Universities Offering Research or Professional Courses Without Proposal & Allowing Dependants
1. University of Gloucestershire
Located in Cheltenham and Gloucester, this university offers practice-based Master’s programs with industry relevance. Many of its postgraduate courses do not require a detailed research proposal and qualify for dependant visas.
Popular Courses: MSc Computing, MBA, MSc Cyber Security
Tuition Fee: £13,000
Dependant Allowed: Yes (Full-time PG courses over 9 months)
2. University of Hertfordshire
One of the UK’s modern and career-focused universities, Hertfordshire offers postgraduate taught and research programs with flexible entry requirements and no initial proposal needed.
Popular Courses: MSc Data Science, MBA, MSc Project Management
Tuition Fee: £17,000
Dependant Allowed: Yes (Eligible courses)
3. University of Wolverhampton
Wolverhampton is well-known for its inclusive academic environment and affordable tuition. Several programs under its postgraduate portfolio do not need a formal research proposal at admission.
Popular Courses: MSc International Business, MSc Mechanical Engineering
Tuition Fee: £17,000
Dependant Allowed: Yes (Full-time Master’s)
4. Royal Holloway, University of London
A prestigious member of the University of London group, Royal Holloway offers research and taught Master’s programs, some of which do not require a research proposal upfront.
Popular Courses: MSc Information Security, MSc Marketing, MA Politics
Scholarship: £6,000
Dependant Allowed: Yes (Eligible PG courses)
5. University of Worcester
This student-friendly university focuses on practical skills and global employability. Some of its postgraduate research and taught degrees don’t require a proposal initially.
Popular Courses: MSc Public Health, MA Education
Tuition Fee: £18,000
Dependant Allowed: Yes (on eligible courses)
UK Home Office Rules for Bringing Dependants (2025 Update)
As of the latest UK student visa policy (2024–2025), only certain postgraduate courses with a research component or government-sponsored students are allowed to bring dependants. The following generally apply:
- The course must be 9 months or longer
- It should be a research or PhD course OR
- A government-funded scholarship
- In some cases, professional postgraduate degrees are also eligible
Tip: Always check if the course is eligible before applying — or consult with a trusted advisor like Global Migration.
How Global Migration Can Help You?
At Global Migration, we specialize in helping Pakistani students apply to top UK universities with their families. From finding courses that don’t require research proposals to visa guidance and dependant applications — we handle it all.
✅Course & University Selection
✅ Visa & Documentation Support
✅ Dependants Visa Application
✅ Scholarship & Fee Guidance
✅ Pre-departure & Settlement Support
Contact us today and let’s make your study-abroad journey stress-free!
