Graduate Route Visa in UK for Indian Students
Talk to Expert
A post study work visa in the UK (also known as the Graduate Visa or Graduate Route Visa) allows international students to remain in the country for a period of 2 years or more after completing their higher studies in the UK on a student visa. While applying for a graduate route visa in the UK, the applicant must be present in the UK and the application must be submitted before the validity of their student visa expires.
If the student needs to study further, they can simply apply for an extension of their student visa in the UK. However, if the course that the student has chosen is not eligible for the student visa then, the course can be pursued on the graduate visa itself.
Also Read:
- What Do Students Do Post-taking Graduate Route? How Much Do They Earn?
- How to Get a UK Work Visa for Indians?
What is Graduate Visa in the UK?
The Graduate Visa Immigration Route, also known as the Points-based Immigration Route or Post-study Work Visa is an unsponsored route that helps students take up work opportunities or look for one for up to two years after completing their bachelor's or master's courses, up to 3 years for doctoral students. The education completed must be in accordance with the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) associated with your Student (or Tier 4) visa, or following a change of course which was allowed without applying for further permission.
This route allows students with any level of skills, having completed their college/university education, to work or look for work towards establishing their careers in the UK. Applicants are not required to provide proof of funds or finance or demonstrate their fluency in English. This is because the applicants have already demonstrated their English proficiency by successfully completing a degree in the UK.
Post Study Work Visa in UK: Validity
The post study work visa/permit in UK (PSW UK) allows international students to stay back to search for work or work on some full-time work opportunities in the UK for a period of two years after completing their graduate studies. For PhD or doctoral students, this period may extend for 3 years.
No extension of your UK Graduate Visa beyond these specified time durations is allowed and you will be required to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa if you wish to work and stay in the UK beyond these periods (whichever suits your qualifications).
Eligibility Criteria for the Post-Study Work Visa in UK
Applicants should note that they should be in the UK when applying for a Graduate Route Visa. The best part is that the applicants do not need to give evidence of any funds if their previous course lasted for more than 12 months and they have been living and studying in the UK during that period. nor are they required to prove English language ability as your UK university degree will itself serve as proof of the latter. Also, students should have obtained the qualification stated on the CAS associated with a Student visa or Tier 4 visa.
In order to apply for a post study work visa in the UK:
- You should be in the UK. If you travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands before getting a decision on your graduate route visa application then, your application will be withdrawn and candidature for the same will be rendered cancelled.
- You must have completed a bachelor’s, postgraduate or doctoral degree from the UK for the minimum duration with your Student visa or Tier 4 student visa.
- You possess a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa and it has not yet expired.
- Your education provider should have confirmed your course completion to the home office in the UK.
- You are a Student Union Sabbatical Officer on a Student Visa.
- Your minimum time of studying (and living) in the UK must have been:
-
- At least 12 months, if your course lasted for more than 12 months.
- Equal to the total duration of your course if your course is shorter than 12 months. For e.g., if your course was 10 months long, you must have studied for at least 10 months in the UK.
When to Start Applying for a PSW Visa UK?
You must start applying for a graduate visa in the UK as soon as your university/college conveys the status of completion of your studies to the home office, the UK. Make sure your Tier 4 or Student Visa's duration has not ended by the time you apply for a PSW visa.
For this reason, you do not need to wait until your graduation day or until you receive your degree.
Graduate Visa UK Application Process 2025
You have to apply for a Graduate Visa in the UK online and attach the required documents along with your application. Your dependents (partner and children) need to apply separately along with paying for each application separately.
As part of the application process, you will be required to prove your identity which can be done by scanning your biometric residence permit (BRP). The same can be done using the "UK Immigration: ID Check" app by signing into your pre-existing UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, or by creating a new one. If the same cannot be done using the aforementioned app, you will be required to provide your photograph and fingerprints at one of the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service points.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
The applicants are given complete assistance on what needs to be done while applying. However, your documents and passport may be kept to process your application if you require an appointment and that will take more time in getting your graduate visa.
Also Read: How to Get PR in the UK after Studies?
Documents Required
To apply for a post-study work visa in the UK, you must present the following documents
- Any valid travel document or passport to confirm your identity and nationality.
- Biometric residence permit (BRP), if that was provided to you when you applied for a Tier 4 (General) student visa in the UK.
- CAS Reference Number - provided by your education provider (college/university) when you completed your course on the UK student visa.
- Proof of relationship with partner and/or children, if any of them is applying as dependent with you on your graduate visa.
- If your cost of living and studying in the UK were supported by a scholarship or sponsorship in the last 12 months then, a letter of approval from either of the sponsorship/scholarship providers must be provided.
Post Study Work Visa UK Fees
There are two components of graduate visa UK fees, the same are given below.
- Two and three-year Graduate route visa application fee: £822
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year for each year you are going to stay in the UK. This sums up to up to £2,070 for 2 years and 3,105 for 3 years, whichever is suitable for you.
Also Read: UK Post-Study Work Visa Rules Relaxed for International Students
UK Graduate Visa Processing Time
The decision regarding your application for the graduate visa will be conveyed to you within 8 weeks. Applicants are advised to stay in the UK during this time.
If, for any reason, the decision on your application is going to exceed 8 weeks then, the same will be conveyed to you via email. The following are the probable reasons that can lead to an extension of the application processing time.
- Any of your attached documents need to be re-verified
- Owing to your personal situation and circumstances, for example, you have a criminal conviction
So, make sure you submit the required documents
What After You Apply for a Graduate Visa in UK?
After you apply for the graduate route visa, you will receive an email containing details on the status of your application within 8 weeks of the date of application. The email will also consist of the details of what needs to be done next.
If you wish to cancel your online application for a post study work visa in the UK then, you may get a refund of your application fee only if the UKVI has not started processing your application.
Can Students Work in the UK After Graduation?
The new UK post-study work visa rules allow international students to work in the UK after graduation. This rule will be applicable to bachelor's, master's and PhD graduates.
If you have pursued a bachelor’s or a post-graduation degree, then the validity of the post-study work visa in the UK will be for two years. If you have pursued a PhD or other doctoral qualification, then the validity of a Graduate visa will be for three years. The duration of validity of your graduate visa starts the day your application for the same is approved.
Related Read: UK Student Visa for Indians
What you can and cannot do with a UK Post Study Work Visa?
With a Graduate Visa, you can:
- Work in most of the jobs
- Search for work
- Be self-employed
- Continue staying in the UK with your children and partner, if they are eligible
- Do some voluntary work
- Travel abroad and return to the UK
Things you cannot do with a Graduate Visa
- Apply for the benefits like public funds, or the State Pension
- Work as a professional sportsperson
Check: UK Student Visa Rejection Reasons (Tier 2 & Tier 4 Visa)
What to do After the UK Post Study Work Visa Expires?
Upon the expiration of the graduate visa, candidates willing to continue to work and stay in the UK can apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, General Work Visa (Tier 2 visa) or any other relevant visa. However, in order to get a Tier 2 visa, the candidate must be getting:
- At least £38,700 per year, or
- The "going rate" according to the type of work
For some jobs, this can be higher or lower. In order to apply for a Tier 2 visa, you must have a confirmed job offer before you apply.
Related Reads:
- How to Get the UK Study Visa for Indian Students?
-
Getting UK Student Visa Becomes Easier; Financial Bond Scrapped
How to get a Job in the UK from India?
Earlier, the UK’s immigration rules were restrictive. However, in today’s time, the government is focusing on enhancing its competitive edge. It is inviting skilled professionals to work in the destination under the Tier 2 visa program. Under this program, skilled workers from nations like India, whose occupations are on the Tier 2 shortage occupations list can request to work in the UK on a long-term basis. Given below are the details for the two streams under the Tier 2 Visa.
- Skilled Worker Visa: This visa allows you to come or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with an approved employer. It has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. In order to qualify for the skilled worker visa, you must work for a UK employer that has been approved by the Home Office. Also, you must have a certificate of sponsorship from your employer with information about the role that you have been given in the United Kingdom. Apart from this, you must do a job that is on the list of eligible occupations and be paid a minimum salary.
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: This visa allows you to come or stay in the UK to do an eligible job at your employer’s UK branch. It has replaced the Intra-company Transfer Visa, previously the Tier 2 (Intra-company Transfer) Long-term staff visa. To qualify for this visa, you must be an existing employee of an organization that has been approved by the Home Office as a sponsor, have a certificate of sponsorship from your employer, do a job that is present in the list of eligible occupations, and be paid at least £48,500 per year.
Read More: What is a Tier 4 Student Visa UK?
PSW UK FAQs
Q. What all can I do professionally with the UK post study work visa?
A. With PSW UK visa, you can work in a broad range of jobs, you can pursue self-employment, can perform voluntary work, and you can travel to international locations and return back to the UK. However, you cannot apply for benefits through public funds or state pension, and you cannot work as a professional sportsperson.
Q. What is the cost of applying for PSW Visa UK (Graduate Route Visa UK)?
A. The UK PSW visa fee is £822 which is to be paid with an annual health surcharge of £1,035, if applicable. The annual health surcharge allows you to make use of the country’s National Health Service just like a permanent resident of the UK can. You will have to pay the entire amount while applying for a graduate route. Also, if there are any dependents they too will have to pay both of the aforementioned fees.
Q. Under what circumstances can I get an exemption from health surcharge?
A. If you are a doctor or nurse, or you are employed in health or adult social care, and you are eligible for Health and Care Worker visa, you can receive an exemption from health surcharge.
Q. Can I extend my UK post study work visa (Graduate Route Visa UK)?
A. No, you cannot extend your UK Graduate visa. However, once it expires, you can apply for a skilled work visa, general work visa, or any other relevant visa if you wish to extend your stay in the UK. However, in order to get a Tier 2 visa, the general work visa, the candidate must be getting at least £38,700 per year or the "going rate" according to the type of your job (whichever is higher).
Q. Under what circumstances can the validity of my UK post study work visa become 3 years?
A. In case if a student has pursued a PhD or other doctoral qualification, then the validity of his/ her UK Graduate visa will be for 3 years.
Q. What all documents do I need to apply for Graduate Visa UK?
A. In order to apply for Graduate Visa UK, you will require the following documents:
- Valid ID proof that involves your passport
- If you were given a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), then you need to provide that as well
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number
- Proof of relationship with your partner or children (if applicable)
- Your scholarship or sponsorship provider also needs to provide a letter (if applicable)
Q. How long does it take to receive a decision on my UK Graduate Visa application?
A. Once you have provided your documents, proven your identity, and applied online, you must wait for 8 weeks to receive a decision on you UK Graduate Visa application. In case if your documents require verification or there are other reasons, you might have to wait for a little longer.
Q. Can dependants apply for Graduate Visa UK?
A. Yes. When you had applied for your UK Student Visa (Tier 4 Student Visa), if at that time, your partner and children were with you in the UK as dependants, they can also apply to stay as dependants on your UK Graduate Visa.
Q. Can I cancel my UK PSW Visa application? Will I receive a refund in case if I decide to cancel the application?
A. You can cancel your visa application. In case if you cancel before a decision has been made, you will receive a refund of the immigration health surcharge. In case of application fee refund, it depends on the stage of your application. It might take up 28 days for you to receive your refunded amount.
Q. What all courses make me eligible for Graduate Visa UK?
A. The following courses make you eligible for PSW UK:
- Bachelor’s degree (UK)
- Master’s degree (UK)
- PhD or Doctorate (UK)
- Law conversion course approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority
- Legal Practice Course in England and Wales
- Solicitors Course in Northern Ireland
- Diploma in Professional Legal Practice in Scotland
- Bar Practice Course in England and Wales, or the Bar Course in Northern Ireland
- Foundation programme in medicine/ dentistry
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education
- Postgraduate Diploma in Education
Q. What happens after the 2-year graduate visa UK expires?
A. The graduate route visa in the UK lets international students to stay and look for work in the UK for a period of 2 years after the completion of their studies. Once the validity period of this visa expires students will have to switch to another form of visa (work visa) if they wish to continue living and working in the UK.
Q. Are the PSW UK and Graduate Visa, UK the same?
A. The post study work visa UK (PSW UK) and the Graduate Visa UK are just the previous and current names of the post-study work visa in the UK.
PSW UK allowed international students to stay and work in the UK for a specific period after completing their studies. On the other hand, the Graduate visa UK replaced the PSW visa and offers more flexibility and benefits to international graduates.
Q: Â How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Q: Â Does the University of Essex require IELTS?
International students whose native language is not English must meet the University of Essex English language requirements to get admission. The university accepts IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency. Mentioned below are the IELTS scores required for UG and PG admission at the university:
English Language Test | Score |
|---|---|
IELTS | Overall score of 5.5 to 8.0 with minimum of 5.5 to 7.5 in each section |
The university also accepts the score of other English language tests such as TOEFL and PTE for admission to undergraduate and graduate programs:
English Language Test | Score |
TOEFL iBT | Overall score of 72 to 114 |
PTE | Overall score of 59 to 84 with minimum of 59 to 80 in each section |
Also read: Required IELTS Score for UK Universities
Q: Â Is university of West of Scotland good for international students?
The University of the West of Scotland has five modern and diverse campuses in United Kingdom. The University has welcomed more than 3,000 international students which are representing 1/3 of the globe. They also have 130 European partners who are actively in global study and exchange options through the Commonwealth universities programmes. The University also offers study abroad opportunities for UWS who are eligible for the same and also have more than 20 transnational education partners worldwide which helps them deliver UWS Bachelors and Masters Degrees around the world.
Q: Â What rank is Wolverhampton University in UK?
The University of Wolverhampton is one of the best universities in the United Kingdom. The university is consistently ranked among the best universities nationally and globally. For nearly 200 years, the University of Wolverhampton has been consistently providing a quality of education to students and producing highly skilled graduates. The national rankings of the University of Wolverhampton are given below:
| Ranking Body | Ranking |
|---|---|
| The Guardian University Guide 2024 | #101 |
| The Complete University Guide 2024 | #117 |
Q: Â How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2025?
Those who are preparing for the UK Class 10 exam 2025 are recommended to follow the tips below.
- Know the exam pattern
- Make a proper time table as per the syllabus
- Solve previous year question papers
- Make short notes of important formulas and theorems
- Revise regularly
- Figure out weaker areas and learn them well
With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.
Q: Â What is University of Wales, Trinity Saint famous for?
University of Wales, Trinity Saint (UWTSD) was founded in 2010, is a public institution for higher education and research at multiple locations. It was set up under the 1828 royal charter of Lampeter, the institution was the result of the merger between Trinity University College and the University of Wales. The institution merged with the Swansea Metropolitan University in 2013.
- Top Ranked University: The UWTSD is not ranked by any major ranking body, however as per the university ranking given on the official website of the university, it is ranked among:
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Film Production and Photography
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Fashion and Textiles
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Graphic Design
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Education
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Sports Science
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Mechanical Engineering
- #1st in Wales for Fine Arts
- Variety of Courses: UWTSD offers more than 300 programs at various levels including undergraduate, postgraduate degrees as well as multiple online courses.
- Highly distinguished and learned faculties: the faculty at UWTSD is highly learned and distinguished which enables students to be the best in their field of study.
- High Placements: According to Graduate Outcome data 2019-2020 quoted by the UWTSD, more than 95% of its graduates were found to be employed within 15 Months of graduation. The average salary of a graduate is not explicitly released by UWTSD, however, as per some unofficial sources the average salary of the graduates of UWTSD is approximately INR 30-35L. with the highest salary being reported as high as INR 66.5L for jobs in Financial Services.
Q: Â Why indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School - UK?
Indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School in the UK for several reasons, including its highly ranked programs, global outlook, and career support. Hult offers a range of full-time master’s degrees, immersive bachelor's programs, and MBA options that prepare students to excel in the global job market. The school is the largest and top-ranked global business school, providing students with an incomparable universal outlook. Additionally, Hult's focus on experiential learning, extensive career support, and the opportunity to study at multiple campuses around the world are attractive to Indian students seeking a global business education. Furthermore, the school's emphasis on innovation and meeting the needs of students and employers may also contribute to its appeal to Indian students
Q: Â What is your review of Central Lancashire University?
University of Central lanchester surely a good option for international students mainly beacuse of a diverse range of excellent academic programs across its professional schools and colleges.
Here are the reasons why you should go for UCLAN:
Academics: University of Central Lancashire offers a range of over 350 undergraduate programs as well as more than 200 graduate programs for their international students. Below are some famous courses the university is highly famous for:
- Arts, Engineering, Applied & Biomedical Sciences;
- Business & Management;
- Psychology;
- Social Science;
- Community Service;
- Design & Fashion;
- Medicine & Nursing;
- Language & Global Studies;
- Journalism;
- Media Studies; and
- Sports.
Location of the university - The Universit of Central Lanchester is in a location where arts & culture, technology industry and entertainment industry providing endless internship. International Students have access tooutdoor activities, live music/performances and attractions which makes their make campus life more enjoyable. The location gives students an additional mark to study at UK.
Ranking: According to global ranking partner THE (Times Higher Education) University Ranking, University of Central Lancashire ranking is 1001-1200 in Best Global Universities, which is Improving from 801-1000 in 2022.
Fees: : The cost of attending UCLAN for Indian students can vary depending on several factors. Tuition fees for international students at UCLAN are typically higher than for UK citizens. However, it is important that the tuition fee can change over time, and it is recommended to visit the official website to recheck the fees and accommodation. Indian students should also consider other costs such as housing, health insurance, meals and transportation attending UCLAN.
Priya Garg is a seasoned content writer and editor. With her rich experience in content writing, teaching and research & analysis, Priya believes in providing only the correct information which is also up-to-date. H... Read Full Bio
Neha Nain Kuntal, a highly qualified professional, holds an MBA in International Business and Marketing, a Master’s in Commerce, a PG Diploma in International Business Operations, and a Bachelor’s in Education. With... Read Full Bio
- Universities in UK175 Universities
- Universities in USA1036 Universities
- Universities in Canada174 Universities
- Universities in Australia122 Universities
- Universities in Ireland33 Universities
- Universities in New Zealand70 Universities
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
Comments
(110)
A
6 months ago
Report Abuse
...more
Reply to Ahz Associates
A
8 months ago
Report Abuse
Reply to Amlendu Amlendu
j
a year ago
Report Abuse
Reply to johnson william
J
a year ago
Report Abuse
Reply to Jenni Parmar
A
a year ago
Report Abuse
Hello Jenni. However, there are certain rules regarding part-time work in the UK for international students who are going on a student visa. You can work on-campus or off-campus depending upon the opportunities you get. Click the link at the end to learn more about the restrictions on working part-
...more
a
2 years ago
Report Abuse
Reply to ashika shah
A
a year ago
Report Abuse
...more