Study Work in 2025: Making the Most of the UK Graduate Route

The Graduate Route lets you stay in the UK after finishing your degree. Here’s how to leverage it in 2025:

Know Your Eligibility

• Available to all full-time undergrad and postgrad students with a valid Tier 4 or Student Visa.
• Bachelor’s, master’s, and PhDs each qualify—PhD graduates get a three-year stay instead of two.

Time Your Application

• Apply before your student visa expires.
• You can submit online up to three months before your course ends (per your CAS end date).

Plan Your Job Search Early

• Update your LinkedIn and university career-portal profiles by final term.
• Attend virtual job fairs—many UK firms post “Graduate Route–friendly” listings.

Understand Restrictions

• You cannot switch to the Graduate Route from inside the UK more than 28 days after your course end date.
• No business setup or sponsorship obligations—work freely across roles.

Maximize Networking

• Join alumni networks—your university’s local chapter often hosts social and industry events.
• Use targeted mentorship schemes (e.g., Royal Society of Chemistry’s “Mentoring for Growth” if you’re in STEM).

Build Your Profile for Sponsor Visas

• While on the Graduate Route, secure a Skilled Worker job (R QF3 and above) to switch sponsors later.
• Keep records of salary thresholds (£26,200 p.a. or relevant “going rate”).

Understanding—and preparing for—the Graduate Route today ensures a smoother transition from student to professional. Start your job search six months before graduation and build real-world experience alongside your studies.