Work After Studies

Work Opportunities After Studying in the UK

Work While Studying in the UK

International students can work part-time during their studies to gain experience and support their living expenses. However, work restrictions depend on the level of study and institution type.

Part-Time Employment Rules

🔹 Students studying at degree level (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) at a UKVI-registered Higher Education Institution:
✔ Can work up to 20 hours per week during term time
✔ Can work full-time during holidays

🔹 Students studying below degree level or at a publicly funded further education college:
✔ Can work up to 10 hours per week during term time
✔ Can work full-time during holidays

📌 Note: Students enrolled in courses shorter than six months must obtain permission from the Entry Clearance Officer to work in the UK.

🔎 Where to Find Part-Time Jobs?

  • University career centers
  • Job portals (Indeed, StudentJob, Reed)
  • Local newspapers and job boards
  • Campus job fairs

🔹 Important: Part-time jobs are not guaranteed by universities, and students must search independently.

Full-Time Work After Graduation (Post-Study Work Visa & Tier 2 Visa)

The UK government offers various work visa options for graduates looking to stay and work after their studies.

1️⃣ Graduate Route (Post-Study Work Visa – PSW)

🎓 The Graduate Route allows international students who have completed a UK degree to:
✔ Stay and work in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates)
✔ Work in any job role without needing an employer sponsorship

🔹 This is an excellent opportunity to gain UK work experience and transition into a long-term career.

📌 Eligibility for Graduate Route Visa:

  • Must have completed a degree from a UKVI-approved university
  • Must have a valid student visa at the time of application
  • No job offer required

2️⃣ Skilled Worker Visa (Previously Tier 2 Visa)

💼 The Skilled Worker Visa allows graduates to stay in the UK long-term if they secure a job with a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor.

✔ Requires a job offer from a UK employer registered with the UK Home Office
✔ The job must meet the minimum salary requirement of £26,200 per year (£23,039 for new entrants)
✔ Initially granted for 5 years, with the option to extend or apply for settlement

📌 Steps to Secure a Skilled Worker Visa:
1️⃣ Apply for jobs early – Graduate schemes and recruitment cycles often start 1 year before graduation
2️⃣ Improve employability skills – Strong communication, technical skills, and relevant experience help secure job offers
3️⃣ Find a sponsor employer – Check the UK Shortage Occupation List for high-demand jobs

🔹 Some industries with high demand for skilled workers include:
✔ IT & Software Development
✔ Engineering & Construction
✔ Healthcare & Social Work
✔ Financial Services

Why Choose the UK for Work After Study?

✅ Access to global companies and top employers
✅ Competitive salaries and career growth opportunities
✅ Opportunity to apply for permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR) after 5 years of work

🚀 Start Planning Early – Secure Your Future in the UK!