Yes, international students who successfully complete an undergraduate or master’s degree at a UK university can now benefit from two years’ work experience in the UK upon graduation through the new Graduate Route. For students who complete a PhD, this period extends to three years.
The Graduate Route gives students an opportunity to gain experience in their chosen career, building their experience and connections in the UK that will impress employers all over the world.
- The Graduate Route opens for students graduating from 1 July 2021
- It is open to all international students who hold a valid student visa at the time of application and who have successfully completed a degree - at undergraduate level or above - at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.
- Successful applicants will be available to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for a maximum period of two years if they have successfully completed an undergraduate or master’s degree. PhD graduates can stay for three years.
- Graduates will be able to switch into skilled work as soon as they have found a suitable job.
- The route will require a new visa application, this includes the payment of a visa fee and an Immigration Health Surcharge.
- The UK government has confirmed that students will not be penalised for beginning their courses online, and will still qualify for the Graduate Route provided they complete the final semester of their studies in the UK.
You can find out more details on our Graduate Route page