“Many Indian students in the UK are surprised to learn that they may already be eligible to vote,” said Sanam Arora, founder and chair of NISAU.
“This campaign is about ensuring that people are aware of their rights and have the opportunity to participate if they choose to. A lack of awareness should not be the reason someone misses out. Voting is both a right and a responsibility.”
Citizens of Commonwealth countries, including India, who are living in the UK with a valid immigration status can register to vote in elections.
The deadline to register to vote is 11:59pm tonight, April 20. Eligible students can register through the official UK government website and the form takes just a few minutes to complete.
According to HESA data,146,480 Indian students enrolled in UK institutions in the 2024/25 academic year.
Local elections cover topics from housing and cost of living to transport and local community life. International students and citizens of Commonwealth countries are directly impacted by these conditions.
Many Indian students in the UK are surprised to learn that they may already be eligible to vote
Sanam Arora, NISAU
“Local decisions affect the opportunities, networks, and environment around you. Being aware of the ability to participate in that system is an important part of being part of it,” Arora added.
The My Vote Matters campaign is strictly non-partisan, and is formed of two-stages.
The first part is focused on raising awareness of eligibility, encouraging students to register to vote before tonight’s deadline.
The second part will provide clear and accessible information on the local issues that directly affect the day-to-day experiences of international students and Commonwealth communities.
Founded in 2012, NISAU represents over 1.25 million students and alumni across the UK, supporting one of the largest and most influential international student communities.
