UK Graduate Route (PSW)

Launch your UK career
with confidence

The Post-Study Work (Graduate Route) lets international students stay in the UK after graduation to work, gain experience, and explore opportunities. Here's everything you need—clear, concise, and student-friendly.

2-3 Years

Stay after graduation

Any Job

No sponsor required

Earn & Grow

Build experience

Simple Path

Clear steps to apply

International students celebrating graduation in the UK

THE GRADUATE ROUTE

What is the PSW Visa?

The Graduate Route, commonly known as the Post-Study Work (PSW) visa, allows international students who have successfully completed an eligible UK degree to stay and work, or look for work, for a period of two years (three years for PhD graduates) after their studies.

This visa offers a fantastic opportunity for graduates to gain valuable work experience in the UK, build professional networks, and potentially switch to a long-term work visa without needing a sponsor for this initial period.

  • Gain valuable UK work experience.
  • Work in almost any job at any skill level.
  • No job offer or sponsorship required to apply.

ELIGIBILITY

Who is eligible?

A quick checklist to confirm you can apply.

Completed an eligible UK degree (e.g., Bachelor's, Master's, PhD)

Held a valid Student visa at the time of course completion

Applied from within the UK

University has reported your successful completion to the Home Office

Valid passport and BRP (if applicable)

No requirement for job offer or minimum salary

Process

Application Process

A step-by-step guide to navigating your Graduate Route application with ease.

Step 1

Check Eligibility

Confirm you meet all the requirements, including your qualification, visa status, and university's compliance.

Step 2

Prepare Documents

Gather all necessary documents, such as your passport, BRP, and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

Step 3

Online Application

Complete the online application form on the official UK government website and pay the required fees.

Step 4

Biometric Appointment

Book and attend an appointment to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photo).

Step 5

Receive Decision

Wait for the Home Office to process your application. You will be notified of the decision via email.

CHECKLIST

Required Documents

Tick through the essentials before you apply.

Personal Documents

Academic Documents

Additional (if applicable)

Guidance

Common Mistakes & Pro Tips

Navigate your application with confidence by learning from common pitfalls and expert advice.

Tips

  • Apply soon after results to avoid gaps.
  • Keep your contact details updated with UKVI.
  • Use the UK Immigration ID Check app if possible.
  • Save all confirmations and receipts.

Common Mistakes

  • Applying before results are officially confirmed.
  • Using an outdated CAS or wrong course details.
  • Leaving the UK before a decision (if required to stay).
  • Ignoring emails from UKVI or your university.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We've got answers. If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.

A Sponsorship Licence allows UK-based businesses to hire skilled workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA). It is a mandatory requirement set by the Home Office for employers wishing to sponsor non-EEA nationals under routes like the Skilled Worker visa.

Application processing times can vary depending on the type of visa and the complexity of the case. Standard applications can take several weeks to a few months. We always provide an estimated timeline based on the specific circumstances of your case.

Need Help with Your PSW Application?

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