Finishing your degree is a major milestone, but for many international students, the journey doesn’t end there. The Graduate Route offers a golden opportunity to stay in the UK after graduation, gain work experience, and take your career to the next level. If you study in the UK, this post-study visa could be your ticket to unlocking longer-term opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about the Graduate Route: eligibility, application process, work rights, and more. Plus, we’ve included real-life success stories to inspire your next steps after you study in the UK.
What Is the Graduate Route?
Introduced in 2021, the Graduate Route is a post-study work visa for international students who complete a UK degree. Typically, it grants:
- Up to two years of stay for Bachelor’s/Master’s graduates
- Up to three years for PhD holders
Key perks include:
- No job offer needed before applying
- Full flexibility to work or job-search in any field
- Freedom to switch employers or job roles
It’s one of the most attractive reasons to study in the UK, offering a bridge from student life into a career.
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Graduate Route, you must meet the following:
- Current student visa
You must hold a valid UK Student Visa at the point of application. - Course completed
Successfully finished a full-time UK degree (undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD). - Institution must be a licensed sponsor
Your university or college must be on the Student Sponsor List. - Apply before your Tier 4/Student visa expires
No exceptions—timing is critical.
If you don’t yet study in the UK, this Workforce Entry option is a game-changer once you complete your degree.
Application Timeline & Process
Here’s how to navigate the Graduate Route application:
- Prepare your documents
- Current passport
- Tier 4/Student visa
- Confirmation of course completion letter
- Biometric Residence Permit (if issued)
- Complete the online application
Apply through the official UK visa website under “Graduate Route.” - Pay the fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Application fee: ~£700
- IHS: ~£776/year
Your visa will include access to the NHS—one of the advantages of choosing to study in the UK.
- Provide biometric information
You may need to attend a local visa application centre or use the UKVCAS service. - Await decision
It usually takes around 8–12 weeks. You must stay in the UK during processing.
Work Rights & Job Opportunities
Once approved, your Graduate Route visa gives you full work rights:
- Full-time or part-time employment
No employment restrictions or annual salary minimums. - Self-employment & freelance work
Freelancing is allowed—perfect for creative or entrepreneurial students. - Switching visas is possible
If you secure a job, you may transition from Graduate Route to a Skilled Worker visa.
If you chose to study in the UK, this flexible pathway lets you kickstart your career—even if your degree path doesn’t directly match your job choice.
From Graduate Route to Long-Term Stay
The Graduate Route is temporary—but here’s how to transition through various pathways:
- Skilled Worker Visa
Requires a job offer from a licensed sponsor with a qualifying salary. - Global Talent Visa
For exceptional individuals in academia or arts—if you publish research or win awards. - Startup or Innovator Visa
For those launching a vetted business idea.
For deeper guidance on post-study visas and career steps after you study in the UK, Erudmite offers expert articles and services like the Why Study in the UK guide and in-depth Guide to UK Universities.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Missing the application window
You must apply before your Student Visa expires—no grace period. - Incomplete documentation
Be thorough and precise—errors can lead to rejection. - Misunderstanding work conditions
You can’t work more than 20 hours per week during term, only full-time during holidays. - Failing to plan ahead
Liaise with your university career services early to map out your next visa route.
Final Steps and Tips
- Track your Student Visa expiry date closely
- Plan early and explore career leads ahead
- Use your university’s employability support services
- Leverage the flexible work rights of the Graduate Route
- Stay informed about visa transitions—like the Skilled Worker route
These steps are critical for those who study in the UK and wish to remain in the country after graduation.
Your Next Step
Would you like personalized help navigating post-study visa options and job pathways after you study in the UK? The Erudmite team is ready to guide you with tailored support.
Book a FREE consultation now to transform this opportunity into your success:
Book your free appointment here
Additional Resources
- Explore more on why you should Study in the UK
- Read the full breakdown in our Why Study in the UK guide
- Analyze different universities and career planning tools in our Guide to UK Universities
FAQs – Graduate Route: Staying in the UK Post-Study
1. How long can I stay on the Graduate Route?
- 2 years for bachelor’s or master’s holders
- 3 years for PhD graduates
2. What cannot be done on this visa?
- You cannot access public funds (benefits)
- Cannot work as a professional sportsperson or coach
- Cannot study full-time without separate permission
3. Can my family accompany me?
Yes, family members on Student Dependant Visas can apply to stay with you under the Graduate Route.
4. Can I apply from outside the UK?
No, you must be in the UK and hold a valid Student Visa to apply for the Graduate Route.
5. What if my visa is denied?
You will receive reasons for refusal and may be eligible to appeal or reapply if corrections are made.
