Working while you study
- Degree-level students can usually work up to 20 hours a week in term time and full time in official vacations. Students on lower-level courses have a lower limit.
- Your visa sticker or eVisa shows your exact work conditions. Self-employment and some jobs (such as professional sport) are not allowed.
After graduation: the Graduate route
The Graduate route lets students who complete a UK degree stay and work or look for work without an employer sponsor. It is currently two years (three for doctorates). The government has announced a shorter period for applications made from 1 January 2027, so the date you apply can matter. Check the current rule before you plan.
Moving on to skilled work
Many graduates switch to a Skilled Worker visa with a sponsoring employer. The job must be on the eligible list and meet a salary threshold. Some employers sponsor new graduates at lower thresholds.
Settlement
Settlement (indefinite leave to remain) generally takes several years on a work route, and the government has been reviewing the qualifying period. Do not plan on a fixed number of years. Study the rules each year.
Plan sensibly
- Use the university careers service and attend job fairs from the first term.
- Choose courses with work placements or industry links when you can.
- Choose a university with a good record on graduate jobs and visa compliance.
Check before you rely on it. Graduate route length, Skilled Worker thresholds and settlement rules are under active change. Rules, fees and dates are changed by governments often. We last reviewed this page in October 2026. Confirm the current position on GOV.UK: Graduate visa or ask our counsellors, who check it again before your file is submitted.
Talk to WIEC about the UK
Our Lalitpur counsellors can review your marks, English score and finances and tell you honestly which courses and universities fit. Book a free appointment, start your file online at Apply Online, or practise for the English test with IELTSWIZZ.
Last updated 29 Oct 2026