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Table of Contents
What is the Graduate Route?
The Graduate Route is an unsponsored immigration route that allows international students who have successfully completed a degree at a higher education provider with a sponsor to work or look for work in the UK after graduation.
Benefits of the Graduate Route:
Unsponsored Flexibility:
- Job Offer Freedom: Unlike many other work visas, you don’t need a specific job lined up before applying for the Graduate Route. This allows you to explore various opportunities and potentially start your career on your terms.
- Skill Level Independence: Whether you’re a recent graduate with limited experience or a seasoned professional looking for a career change, the Graduate Route doesn’t restrict your skill level. You can work in any role that aligns with your interests and qualifications.
- Career Path Exploration: The flexibility of the Graduate Route allows you to experiment with different job roles, industries, and companies. This can help you gain valuable experience, identify your career goals, and make informed decisions about your future.
- Freelancing and Internships: The Graduate Route allows you to engage in freelancing or internships if you prefer a more flexible work arrangement. This can allow you to develop new skills, build your network, and gain practical experience in your chosen field.
No Minimum Salary Requirement:
- Job Offer Freedom: Unlike many other work visas, you don’t need a specific job lined up before applying for the Graduate Route. This allows you to explore various opportunities and potentially start your career on your terms.
- Skill Level Independence: Whether you’re a recent graduate with limited experience or a seasoned professional looking for a career change, the Graduate Route doesn’t restrict your skill level. You can work in any role that aligns with your interests and qualifications.
- Career Path Exploration: The flexibility of the Graduate Route allows you to experiment with different job roles, industries, and companies. This can help you gain valuable experience, identify your career goals, and make informed decisions about your future.
- Freelancing and Internships: The Graduate Route allows you to engage in freelancing or internships if you prefer a more flexible work arrangement. This can allow you to develop new skills, build your network, and gain practical experience in your chosen field.
Multiple Job Opportunities:
- Income Maximization: If you have the time and energy, you can take on multiple jobs to increase your income and accelerate your career growth. This can be particularly advantageous during periods of economic uncertainty or if you have specific financial goals.
- Skill Development: Working multiple jobs can expose you to a wider range of experiences and allow you to develop diverse skills. This can enhance your employability and make you a more attractive candidate for future roles.
- Networking: Multiple jobs can expand your professional network and connect you with individuals in different industries and organizations. This can be invaluable for career advancement and finding new opportunities.
Eligibility for the Graduate Route:
Valid Tier 4 (General) Student Visa:
- Active Student Status: To be eligible for the Graduate Route, you must have a valid Tier 4 (General) student visa when you apply. You should still be actively enrolled in your studies or have recently completed them.
- Visa Expiry: Ensure your student visa doesn’t expire before submitting your Graduate Route application. If your visa is nearing its end, you may need to extend it or apply for the Graduate Route as soon as possible.
Completion of a Full-Time Undergraduate or Postgraduate Degree:
Award of Degree:
- Academic Qualification: You must have completed a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a Higher Education Provider in the UK. This includes bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
- Sponsor Requirement: The institution you attended must be a Higher Education Provider with a sponsor. This means the UK government has approved the hosting of international students. You can find a list of sponsored institutions on the UKVI website.
- Successful Completion: You must have completed your studies and been awarded your degree. This means you’ve met all your program’s academic requirements and received the official certification.
- Graduation Date: Ensure that your graduation date falls within the eligibility period for the Graduate Route. This information can be found on the UKVI website or by contacting your university.
Applying for the Graduate Route:
Applications for the Graduate Route can be submitted online via the UK Immigration System. The UKVI website provides detailed information on the application process, including required documents.
Online Application Process:
- UK Immigration System: The Graduate Route application is submitted online through the UK Immigration System (UKVI). This is a secure online platform where you’ll provide your personal information and supporting documents and pay the application fee.
- User-Friendly Interface: The UKVI website is designed to be user-friendly, guiding you through the application process step-by-step. You can access various resources and information to assist you throughout the process.
Required Documents:
- Essential Documentation: To successfully apply for the Graduate Route, you must provide various supporting documents. These may include:
- Passport and biometric residence permit
- Student visa
- Degree certificate or transcripts
- Proof of identity
- Financial evidence (if applicable)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if required)
- Detailed Guidance: The UKVI website provides a comprehensive list of required documents and specific instructions on preparing and submitting them. It’s essential to carefully review this information and ensure you have all the necessary documents ready before starting your application.
Additional Tips:
- Prepare in Advance: To avoid delays, it’s recommended to start preparing your application well in advance of your intended departure date. This will give you ample time to gather the required documents and address potential issues.
- Check for Updates: The UKVI website is regularly updated with changes to the Graduate Route application process and requirements. It’s important to check for updates before submitting your application to ensure you have the most accurate information.
- Seek Professional Advice: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the Graduate Route application process or have specific questions, consider seeking advice from an immigration consultant or legal professional. They can provide expert guidance and help you navigate the process smoothly.
Costs of the Graduate Route:
Application Fee:
- Non-Refundable Fee: There is a one-off application fee of £822 for the Graduate Route. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.
- Payment Methods: You can pay the application fee using a debit or credit card. The UKVI website provides instructions on how to make payments securely online.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
- Healthcare Contribution: The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee that international students and their dependents must pay to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). This is usually £1,035 for each year you’ll be in the UK
- Variable Cost: The cost of the IHS varies depending on the length of your stay and your age. The IHS calculator on the UKVI website can help you find the exact amount.
- Payment Options: The visa application fee typically includes the IHS. However, in some cases, you may need to pay it separately. The UKVI website will provide clear instructions on how to pay the IHS if applicable.
Additional Costs:
- Accommodation: You’ll need to budget for accommodation costs, which vary significantly depending on your location and lifestyle.
- Living Expenses: Other living expenses include food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment.
- Healthcare: While the IHS covers access to the NHS, you may still need to pay for prescription medications, dental care, and other healthcare services not covered by the NHS.
Important Note:
This article‘s information is for general guidance and should not be taken as immigration advice. For the latest Graduate Route information and eligibility criteria, refer to the official UKVI website.
The Graduate Route, also known as the post-study work visa, offers a fantastic opportunity to stay and work in the UK for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after completing your studies.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Graduate Route and its eligibility.
