For international students completing their studies in the UK, transitioning from academic life to a professional career can feel overwhelming, especially having to navigate immigration requirements. The Post Study Work Visa in the UK, officially known as the Graduate Route, offers a valuable solution that bridges this gap, providing recent graduates with the opportunity to gain meaningful work experience in the UK.
What Is The Post Study Work Visa In The UK?
The Post Study Work Visa (PSW), formally called the Graduate Route visa, is an immigration pathway specifically designed for international students who have completed their higher education in the UK. This visa allows you to remain in the country after your student visa expires to pursue employment opportunities, gain professional experience, or explore entrepreneurial ventures.
Unlike traditional work visas that require a job offer before application, the Graduate Route provides the flexibility to search for employment or switch between jobs. This unique feature makes it an attractive option for graduates looking to establish themselves in the competitive UK job market.
PSW Visa Duration And Validity
The Graduate Route typically grants you two years to live and work in the UK following graduation, with PhD and other doctoral degree holders eligible for an extended three-year period. During this time, you can work in almost any job at any skill level, providing invaluable flexibility as you launch your career or gain the experience needed to qualify for longer-term visa routes.
| Note: The UK government has proposed reducing the post-study work visa (Graduate Route) for international students from 2 years to 18 months. However, this change has not been implemented yet and is still under review. |
Validity of the PSW Visa
- The validity period starts from the date your visa is granted, not from the end of your course.
- You cannot extend the Graduate visa, but you may switch to other visa types (e.g. Skilled Worker visa) before it expires.
- You must apply before your current Student visa expires and while in the UK.
Also Read: Student Visa For The UK In 2025: Types, Eligibility And Cost
Eligibility Criteria For The Post Study Work Visa In The UK (Graduate Route)
The UK Post Study Work Visa offers international students a valuable opportunity to remain in the country after graduation, but meeting the specific eligibility requirements is crucial for a successful application. Understanding these criteria beforehand can help you plan your studies and application timeline effectively.
- Valid Immigration Status
- Hold a valid Student or Tier 4 visa at the time of application
- Must not have switched to another visa after completing your course
- Apply from Within the UK
- Must be physically in the UK when applying
- Applications from outside the UK will be refused.
- Eligible Qualification
- Completed a UK degree or higher-level course (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, etc.)
- Course must be from a recognised UK Higher Education Provider
- Course and Institution Requirements
- Studied at a licensed student sponsor
- Completed the full course duration in English
- An institution must confirm your successful course completion
- Academic Achievement
- Passed your course with satisfactory academic progress
- Official confirmation of completion from your university is required
Which Courses Are Eligible To Apply For A PSW Visa In The UK?
The courses eligible to apply for a Post Study Work Visa (Graduate Route) in the UK include the successful completion of the following at a recognised UK higher education institution:
- A UK Bachelor’s degree
- A UK Master’s degree
- A UK doctoral degree (PhD)
- A Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) conversion course, validated by the Joint Academic Stage Board in England and Wales
- The Legal Practice Course (LPC) in England and Wales, the Solicitors Course in Northern Ireland, or a Diploma in Professional Legal Practice in Scotland
- The Bar Practice Course (BPTC) in England and Wales, or the Bar Course in Northern Ireland
- A foundation programme in Medicine or Dentistry
- A Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)
- A professional course at a bachelor’s degree level or above in a profession with reserved activities regulated by UK law or a UK public authority
Required Documents For The Post-Study Work Visa Application In The UK
When applying for the UK Post Study Work Visa (Graduate Route), having the correct documentation is crucial for a successful application. Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays or refusal, so preparing thoroughly before submitting your application is essential.
| Document | Details |
| Valid Passport or Travel Document | – Must be valid during the application process- Should have blank pages- Renew if expiring soon |
| CAS Reference Number | – From your original Student visa/Tier 4 application- Provided by your university- Contact your international office if lost |
| Proof of Current Immigration Status | Option A: Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)- Physical card- Usable up to 18 months after expiry- Must be intact Option B: eVisa Status Proof- Generate a share code via UK Gov “View and prove your immigration status” service |
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
| Situation | Required Documents |
| With Dependants | – Marriage/civil partnership certificate- Birth certificates for children- Adoption certificates (if any)- Proof of relationship (for unmarried partners) |
| Scholarship Recipients | – Letter from sponsor approving Graduate Route application- Terms & conditions of sponsorship |
| Non-English Documents | – Certified translations by qualified translators- Include both original and translated documents |
How To Apply For a Post-Study Work Visa In The UK?
Applying for the UK Post Study Work Visa (Graduate Route) is a straightforward online process, but proper preparation and attention to timing are crucial for success. Below are steps to the application process to ensure you submit a complete and accurate application.
Step 1: Access the Application Portal
- Go to the UK government’s official website: https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa/apply
- Create or log in to your UKVI account
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
- Enter personal details
- Provide your UK address and Student visa info
- Enter your CAS number, course details, and university name
- Answer questions on immigration and employment history
- Add dependent info (if applicable)
Step 3: Pay Fees
- Application fee: £880
- Healthcare surcharge:
- £2,070 (2 years)
- £3,105 (3 years for PhD)
- Pay online with a debit/credit card
Step 4: Verify Your Identity
Option A: UK Immigration ID Check App
- Scan your passport and complete facial ID on the app
Option B: Biometric Appointment (UKVCAS)
- Book and attend in person to give fingerprints/photo
Step 5: Upload Documents
- Passport (all stamped pages)
- BRP or eVisa share code
- Any other relevant documents
- Ensure files are clear (PDF, JPEG, PNG)
Step 6: Submit and Wait
- Review and submit the application
- Processing time: up to 8 weeks
- You can stay in the UK while waiting
Factors Delaying Post-Study Visa Processing Time
The standard processing time for a UK Post-Study Work Visa (Graduate Route) application is up to 8 weeks from the date you verify your identity and submit your documents, either via the UK Immigration ID Check app or after attending a biometric appointment at a UKVCAS centre.
- Incomplete or incorrect applications
- Peak periods (e.g. summer)
- Additional document checks
- Biometric appointment delays
- UKVI operational issues
- Complex personal history (e.g. criminal or immigration record)
Also Read: Understanding the UK Student Visa Rejection Rate: Top Reasons and Fixes
After Getting Your Post-Study Work Visa
Once your UK Graduate Route visa (Post Study Work Visa) is approved, you are officially allowed to stay and work in the UK. Here’s what you should focus on next:
1. Start Job Hunting (If You Haven’t Already)
Now is the time to actively apply for full-time jobs, internships, or even freelance roles. The Graduate Route lets you work at any skill level – there are no minimum salary requirements or employer sponsorship needed.
Tip: Use job portals like Indeed, LinkedIn, and graduate-specific platforms like Prospects.ac.uk.
2. Explore Different Industries
This visa allows you to work in any field, not just the one related to your degree. Whether you want to try hospitality, marketing, healthcare, tech, or finance, this visa allows you to explore career paths.
3. Understand Your Tax Responsibilities
As a working professional in the UK, you must:
- Register for a National Insurance (NI) number.
- Ensure your employer is deducting PAYE taxes.
- File a self-assessment if you freelance or are self-employed.
4. Plan for Your Next Move
The Graduate Route cannot be extended. So, before it expires (2 years for UG/PG, 3 years for PhD), consider:
- Switching to a Skilled Worker visa (Tier 2) requires employer sponsorship.
- Applying for a Start-up visa or Innovator Founder visa if you have a business idea.
- Pursuing further education (e.g., a PhD).
5. Stay Informed
Immigration rules can change. Keep checking updates from:
- UK government website – Visas and Immigration
- UKCISA: Your university’s international student support team
The Post Study Work Visa in the UK, or Graduate Route, offers more than just extended stay; it opens the door to valuable international work experience, skill development, and long-term career prospects. Whether you are exploring job opportunities, considering switching to a Skilled Worker visa, or planning further education, the Graduate Route provides the freedom and flexibility to shape your journey on your terms.
However, exploring the post-study transition from understanding visa rules to building a successful career in the UK can be overwhelming. That’s where expert guidance makes all the difference. At UniScholars, we support you from shortlisting universities to visa application assistance, job search guidance, and beyond.
FAQs
Q. Does the UK give a post-study work visa?
Ans: Yes, the UK offers a Post-Study Work Visa called the Graduate Route, which allows international students to stay and work after completing their degree. It provides two years for bachelor’s and master’s graduates and three years for PhD holders.
Q. Who is eligible for a 2-year post-study work visa in the UK?
Ans: International students who have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree at a recognised UK university and hold a valid Student visa at the time of application are eligible for the 2-year Post Study Work Visa (Graduate Route) in the UK. They must apply from within the UK before their student visa expires.
Q. What happens after 2 years of PSW in the UK?
Ans: After 2 years on the UK Post Study Work (PSW) Visa, you cannot extend it—but you can switch to another visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa, if you have a qualifying job offer from a licensed employer. Alternatively, you can pursue further studies, apply for a Start-up or Innovator Founder visa, or prepare to return to your home country.
Q. How much does a PSW cost in the UK after completing your masters?
Ans: The UK Post Study Work Visa (Graduate Route) after completing a master’s costs £880 for the application and £2,070 for the 2-year Immigration Health Surcharge. In total, you will pay around £2,950.
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further