Work After Degree UK: Jobs, Visas, and Real Paths for Graduates

When you finish your degree in the UK, work after degree UK, the legal right for international and domestic graduates to stay and take up employment after completing their studies. Also known as post-study work, it’s not a free pass—it’s a structured window that requires planning, timing, and clear goals. The graduate visa UK, a temporary work visa allowing graduates to live and work in the UK for up to two years (or three for PhD holders). Also known as Graduate Route, it’s the main legal pathway for most students to start their careers here after graduation. This isn’t just about finding any job—it’s about landing roles that match your skills, fit your long-term plans, and help you build a future in the UK.

Many students think the moment they graduate, they’re automatically eligible to work. That’s not true. You need to apply for the graduate visa before your student visa runs out, and you can only apply while you’re still in the UK. You don’t need a job offer to apply, but you do need proof you’ve completed your course. Employers don’t need to sponsor you for this visa, which makes it easier than other work routes. But here’s the catch: you can’t switch into this visa from outside the UK, and you can’t extend it. That means every month counts. You’ve got two years to prove you belong here—whether that’s through full-time work, starting a business, or even switching to a skilled worker visa later.

What kind of jobs are you actually eligible for? The rules don’t restrict you by job type or salary level—unlike the skilled worker visa. That means you can work in retail, hospitality, admin, tech, or even freelance gigs. But if you’re aiming to stay long-term, you’ll eventually need to switch to a visa that requires sponsorship and a minimum salary. That’s where graduate jobs UK, entry-level roles specifically targeted at university graduates, often with structured training and clear progression paths. Also known as graduate schemes, these are the real gateways to permanent roles in sectors like finance, engineering, public service, and tech. Companies like Deloitte, NHS, and Unilever run these programs, and they’re competitive. You’ll need to start applying early, often in your final year. And don’t overlook smaller companies—they hire graduates too, and they’re often more flexible.

Your student work rights during your course (up to 20 hours a week) don’t automatically turn into full-time work after graduation. You need the visa. And if you’re an international student, you can’t just stay on a tourist visa. The graduate visa is your bridge. It’s not a guarantee of permanent residency, but it’s your best shot at building a career here. Use it wisely—network, build experience, track your hours, and keep your documents organized. Many students miss out not because they can’t find work, but because they wait too long to apply or don’t know what documents to prepare.

Below, you’ll find real guides from students who’ve been through this. They’ve tackled everything from applying for the visa to landing their first job, dealing with housing after uni, managing bills on a graduate salary, and even navigating mental health during the transition. No fluff. Just what works.