The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word POSTGRADUATE
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More clues leading to the result POSTGRADUATE
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "student" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case student = postgraduate.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does POSTGRADUATE mean?
POSTGRADUATE noun- A person continuing to study in a field after having successfully completed a degree course.
- Of studies which take place after having successfully completed a degree course.