The opportunity to study in the UK doesn’t end at graduation. For many UAE-based students, gaining international work experience is a key reason for choosing British higher education. That’s where the Graduate Route visa comes in—a post-study work pathway that allows international graduates to remain in the UK after completing their degree.

This article explores how UAE students can benefit from this visa, what eligibility criteria to meet, how to apply, and what steps to take toward building a future career in the UK.

What Is the Graduate Route Visa?

The Graduate Route visa, introduced in 2021, enables international students who have successfully completed an eligible degree at a UK Higher Education Provider to stay and work (or look for work) in the UK for two years (or three for doctoral graduates).

This route offers flexibility:

• No sponsorship required
• No restrictions on the type of job
• Freedom to switch to longer-term visa options like the Skilled Worker Visa

If you’re planning to study in the UK, the Graduate Route should definitely be on your radar.

Why UAE Students Should Care

1. Work Experience Without Sponsorship

Unlike most work routes, the Graduate Route doesn’t require a job offer or employer sponsorship. This gives UAE students a unique chance to explore employment across sectors such as finance, tech, healthcare, and engineering—sectors that actively hire international talent.

2. Time to Build a Future

These 2–3 years can be used to:

• Gain work experience
• Boost your CV for future visa applications
• Explore the UK’s vibrant job market and expand your professional network

3. Easy Transition to Skilled Worker Visa

Many UAE graduates use this route to transition into a Skilled Worker visa, a long-term pathway toward UK settlement.

Who Is Eligible?

You can apply for the Graduate Route visa if:

• You completed a UK bachelor’s degree, master’s, or PhD
• You studied at a licensed student sponsor
• Your last grant of leave was under a valid Student visa
• Your university has confirmed your degree completion

Students currently holding a valid Student visa and graduating soon from a UK university—including UWS London—are eligible to apply.

Application Process for the Graduate Route

Here’s a step-by-step guide UAE students can follow to apply:

1. Wait for Confirmation
   Ensure your university has reported your successful course completion to UKVI.
2. Apply Online
   Submit your application using the UKVI digital portal.
3. Identity Verification
   Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app (for those eligible) or provide biometric information at a Visa Centre.
4. Pay the Fees
   • Application fee: £822
   • Immigration Health Surcharge: £624/year

Receive a Decision
Expect a decision within 8 weeks. During this time, you can remain in the UK.

Key Benefits for UAE Students

• No Job Offer Required
  Start job hunting post-degree without the pressure of securing immediate employment.
• Unrestricted Work Rights
  Engage in any employment (except professional sportsperson roles), internships, or even entrepreneurship.

Multiple Career Pathways
The Graduate Route supports varied career goals—whether it’s finding full-time employment, gaining experience for UAE-based roles, or preparing for permanent residence.

Transitioning to Long-Term Visas

After the Graduate Route:

• Skilled Worker Visa: Most common next step. Requires a job with a UK employer offering sponsorship.
• Global Talent Visa: For exceptional graduates in research, digital technology, or arts.
• Start-up Visa: For entrepreneurial students with innovative ideas.

Erudmite can guide you through these options after you’ve made the move to study in the UK.

Recent Updates on Graduate Route (2025 Outlook)

While the Graduate Route remains accessible in 2025, changes may be introduced:

• A potential reduction in visa duration for taught master’s programs
• Stricter dependants’ rules
• Increased scrutiny on university compliance and visa sponsorship

Students who apply before policy changes come into effect may still benefit from the existing two-year window.

Planning Ahead as a UAE Student

UAE students who want to take advantage of the Graduate Route should:

• Apply Early: Start your student visa and course application early through trusted platforms like Erudmite.
• Choose Eligible Universities: Ensure the institution is a licensed sponsor (e.g., UWS London Campus).
• Prepare for the UK Job Market: Polish your CV, cover letters, and interview skills.

Set Career Goals: Decide whether you want to stay long-term, gain experience, or return to the UAE with UK-based skills.

How Erudmite Supports You

We support UAE students every step of the way, from choosing a university to post-graduation visa planning.

With Erudmite, you’ll receive:

• Personalised career counselling
• Help with Student and Graduate Route visa applications
• Advice on transitioning to permanent work visas
• Information about eligible universities and the latest immigration policies

If you’re considering your options to study in the UK, talk to our expert team today.

Final Thoughts

The Graduate Route visa is a significant opportunity for UAE students to convert academic success into professional growth. Whether your goal is to gain work experience, build a life abroad, or enhance your international profile, the Graduate Route offers flexibility and potential.

As policies evolve, it’s more important than ever to be proactive, strategic, and well-informed—and that’s where Erudmite comes in.

Book Your Free Consultation

Erudmite offers expert, free-of-charge consultations to UAE-based students who want to explore their post-study options in the UK. Whether you’re still planning to apply or about to graduate, we’ll guide you through every step.

Book your appointment today and take the next step in your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is eligible for the Graduate Route visa?
Any international student who has successfully completed an eligible degree from a licensed UK institution while on a Student visa.

2. How long can I stay on the Graduate Route visa?
2 years for bachelor’s and master’s graduates, and 3 years for PhD graduates.

3. Can I work full time on this visa?
Yes, there are no restrictions on the type or number of hours of work.

4. Can dependants stay with me?
Only dependants who were with you on your Student visa can extend under the Graduate Route.

5. Can I switch to a different visa later?
Yes, popular options include the Skilled Worker visa or the Global Talent visa.