Dreaming of launching your international career after graduation? The UK Graduate Route Visa—commonly known as the Post-Study Work (PSW) Visa—allows international students to live and work in the UK for up to two years after completing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, or three years for PhD holders.

This unsponsored visa is a key reason why thousands of students from around the world—including Bangladesh —choose the UK for higher education.

It offers flexibility, freedom, and a golden opportunity to convert your academic success into career growth.

📘 What’s Covered:

• What is the UK Post-Study Work Visa?
• Eligibility Criteria
• Required Documents
• Cost of Applying
• How to Apply
• What You Can Do on a PSW Visa
• Key Benefits
• Life After the Visa Expires
• Common Rejection Reasons
• FAQs

🎓 What is the UK Post-Study Work Visa?

The Graduate Route, launched in July 2021, allows international students to stay in the UK post-graduation:

• 2 years for Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees
• 3 years for PhDs

What makes it special?

• No job offer required
• No sponsorship needed
• Open to most UK university graduates

It’s designed to help graduates transition into the workforce and explore long-term opportunities in the UK.

✅ Who’s Eligible?

You can apply if:

• You’re in the UK at the time of application
• You hold a valid Student or Tier 4 visa
• You’ve completed an eligible degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD)
• Your course matches the CAS on your Student visa
• Your university has informed the Home Office of your course completion
• You’ve studied in the UK for at least 12 months or the entire course duration
• You haven’t left the UK during your visa application process

No proof of finances or English test needed—you already fulfilled those for your previous visa.

📄 Required Documents

Prepare the following:

• Valid passport
• Details of current Student/Tier 4 visa
• CAS number
• Confirmation of course completion from your university
• Proof of visa fee payment
• Proof of IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge) payment
• Biometric data (if requested)
• No-objection letter (if funded by government/scholarship recently)

💷 Cost of Applying

🧾 How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Confirm eligibility
2. Gather all documents
3. Apply online at the UK Gov website
4. Verify identity (using UK Immigration App or at a UKVCAS centre)
5. Pay visa & health surcharge fees
6. Wait for decision (usually within 8 weeks)

💼 What Can You Do on This Visa?

Once approved, the Graduate Route allows you to:

• Work full-time or part-time
• Take internships or short-term contracts
• Be self-employed or freelance
• Apply for jobs that offer Skilled Worker sponsorship
• Build a professional network and UK-based work experience

No employer sponsorship needed = More freedom and flexibility.

🌟 Key Benefits for International Students

• Time to explore career options without pressure
• Add UK work experience to your CV
• Learn the UK job market & culture
• Smooth transition to other long-term visas
• Grow your professional network

🔄 What Happens After 2 Years?

Once the PSW visa ends, you can:

• Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa (if you get a sponsored job)
• Apply for Start-up or Innovator Visa (for entrepreneurs)
• Apply for a Health & Care Worker Visa (if in healthcare sector)
• Apply for Global Talent Visa (if you meet the eligibility)
• Explore family or employer-sponsored routes
• Return home or explore global career paths

⚠️ Common Reasons for Rejection

• Applying before receiving course completion confirmation
• Leaving the UK during the application process
• Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
• Having an expired or invalid visa at the time of applying
• Not verifying ID or failing payment steps

Be thorough—each step counts.

🙋‍♂️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get the Graduate Route visa?

Usually within 8 weeks. You can remain in the UK while waiting.

Can the PSW visa be extended?

No. But you can switch to another visa category (e.g., Skilled Worker).

When should I apply?

After your university confirms course completion and before your Student visa expires.

Are new rules expected soon?

There are discussions, but no confirmed changes yet. Always check the official UK gov website.

Is the approval rate high?

Yes! As long as eligibility is met and the application is complete, approval is likely.

🤝 How Edugate International Can Help

From choosing the right UK university to securing your Graduate Route Visa, Edugate International supports you at every stage.

Our Services Include:

• University selection & admissions
• Visa guidance & documentation
• Graduate Route application assistance
• Career counseling & job market preparation
• Pre-departure & post-arrival support

Start strong. Go global.