The UK Graduate Route Visa Explained: Staying to Work After Your Degree

4 min read

The Graduate Route lets international students stay in the UK after finishing their studies to work, or look for work, at any skill level and without needing a job offer or sponsor. It is one of the main reasons students choose to study in the UK, so it is worth understanding the rules before you start your course.

Who can apply

• You must currently hold a UK Student visa (or a Tier 4 visa) and be in the UK when you apply
• You must have successfully completed an eligible course, such as a bachelor's, master's or PhD, at a university with a track record of compliance
• Your university must have told the Home Office that you completed your course
• You must apply before your current Student visa expires

How long it lasts

Until now the Graduate Route has granted two years after a bachelor's or master's degree, and three years after a PhD. The government has announced a reduction in the standard length, and that the change applies to applications from a date in 2027. Check GOV.UK for the exact length and start date that will apply to your application, because this affects how you plan your first years after graduating.

What you can and cannot do

• You can work, including self-employment, and look for work with no restriction on the type of job
• You cannot claim most public funds
• You cannot extend the Graduate Route, but you may be able to switch to another visa, such as the Skilled Worker route, if you meet its requirements
• Time on the Graduate Route generally does not count towards settlement

Plan ahead

Keep your Student visa valid until you have applied, check your course end date and the date your university will report completion, and gather your documents early. A late application is one of the most common mistakes.

Rules and fees change, so always check GOV.UK for the current position. Sign in to YCC Navigator to ask the student assistant questions about your own study plans, or run the compliance check on your case.