UK Graduate Route Visa Explained: Work in the UK After Study

The UK Graduate Route lets you stay and work for two years after your degree — no job offer needed to start. Here’s how it works.

What is the Graduate Route?

The Graduate Route is a post-study work visa that lets international graduates stay in the UK for two years (three for PhD holders) to work or look for work — without needing employer sponsorship to begin.

Who is eligible?

You must have completed an eligible degree in the UK on a Student visa and be in the UK when you apply. It’s available across all subjects, not just STEM.

Why it’s so valuable

Combined with a one-year UK master’s, the Graduate Route means you can earn a globally ranked degree and get two years of UK work experience in a short, cost-effective window. That’s a big reason the UK is so popular — compare it in UK vs USA.

What comes next

During the two years you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you find a sponsoring employer, putting you on the path to longer-term settlement.

Plan your UK route

Pick the right course and university to make the most of it. See Study in the UK and UK intakes, or get free counselling.