Work After Study

From September 2008, International students can stay back and work for TWO YEARS, after completion of UK’s recognized bachelor or postgraduate degree, Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or a Higher National Diploma (HND) from a Scottish institution under Post Study Work Scheme.

The scheme is meant to retain the brightest foreign students who have studied in the UK under current rules or the Tier 4 system. It is part of Tier 1 because successful applicants will be able to find work after graduation without having a sponsor.

PSW program is only designed to be a bridge to highly skilled or skilled work, much like the previous International Graduates Scheme or Fresh Talent Scheme in Scotland. Those with student visas in the UK under Post-Study Work are expected to switch into another part of the points system such as Tier 1 (General) or Tier 2 (Skilled Workers with an offer of Employment ) as soon as they are able to do so.

To encourage individuals to switch over, leave will only be granted under Post-Study Work for a maximum of 2 years and is non-renewable. However time spent in the UK under Post-Study Work will not count towards permanent residence.

It is good for a non-renewable two-year period after which you are expected to transfer to another immigration category. The English language requirement is waived for Post-Study Work applicants because it is assumed English language proficiency was required to obtain the eligible qualification but funds Maintenance criteria is required to be fulfilled as in Tier 1 General.

How do I qualify for the PSW?

You must score a total of 95 points: 75 points for ‘attributes’: • You have been awarded a UK recognised degree or postgraduate degree or postgraduate certificate of education (PGCE) or HND for a Scottish Institution – 20 pts   • You have studied at a UK institution that is a UK recognised or listed body – 20 pts   • You obtained your qualification whilst in the UK either on a student visa or as a dependant (but dependants must return to the home country to apply) – 20 pts   • You must make your application for PSW within 12 months of obtaining your qualification (the relevant date will be the date on which you were first notified in writing that the qualification had been awarded - 15 pts.     • If you currently have IGS status you can extend for a further 12 months – 75 points   10 points each for English language and availability of funds:     • English language – if you score 75 points in the above attributes you will be granted the necessary points – 10 pts. • Funds requirement of £800 UK plus £533 per dependant. See How do I apply in the UK? for further details. If applying from home country you will need to show £2800 and £1600 per dependant.

What work am I allowed to do?

•	You can be employed, self employed or set up in business
•	You or any dependants will not be allowed to take employment as a Doctor in Training.

All students: when can I apply?

You must wait until you have written proof of your final results approved by Faculty. You must apply within 12 months of successful completion of your course which is considered to be the date on which you were first notified in writing that the qualification had been awarded.

If you want to go home at the end of your course you will then need to apply for entry clearance to return to the UK to work under the PSW scheme. You will need to show more funds if you apply from abroad.

Charges

The charges are £500 for a postal application plus £50 for each dependant and £700 plus £50 for each dependant for an in person application in the UK. Visa fees are £265 in your home country and the same for each dependant.

Dependants

If you have family members in the UK currently as your dependants they can apply to remain as Tier 1 (Post Study Work) dependants but will need to make a separate application costs £50 for each person. If you have married/entered a long term relationship since you arrived in the UK and your partner is not here in the UK as your dependant they will need to return home to apply for entry clearance. Your dependant will have a right to work or be self employed without needing a work permit.

How do I apply in the UK?

1.	Wait to apply until you have got the final results approved by Faculty. If you are still ‘awaiting results’ you will not be able to prove that you have successfully completed the course. Most taught postgraduates get their final results by early December.
2.	Download and read the Tier 1 (Post Study Work) form, guidance notes and the Tier 1 (Dependant) form if appropriate from the UKBA website.
3.	Apply before your student visa expires.
4.	You must provide original documents in the format requested by the UKBA. Failure to do so may lead to refusal.
5.	You must send your application by post. We recommend you send it by Special Delivery. Alternatively you can submit it in person at one of the regional offices.

What are the documents required?

1.	PSW certificate of student status available from University.
2.	Original degree certificate if you have graduated.
3.	3 months original bank statements. You must show you have held £800 in your bank account (s) for three months if applying from UK. You can show more than one bank account (including a bank account in your name from your home country). Whatever the combination it is essential you can show your balance has not gone below £800 during the three months period. For each dependant you will need to show an additional £533. The most recent statement must be dated within one month of your application.
4.	Consent letter from sponsor – required if you have been sponsored for all of your tuition fees and living costs by a government or international scholarship agency.
5.	Any additional documents/ and fee as required on the form.

How do I apply from my home country?

You need to complete the VAF9 form available from the UK visas website and provide the following documents:
1.	PSW certificate of student status available from University.
2.	Original degree certificate if you have graduated
3.	3 months bank statements – you must be able to show a minimum balance of £2800 for 3 months prior to applying and £1600 for each dependant. Financial evidence must be dated no more than 7 days before you make the application.
4.	£205 fee

What are my other options?

Please see our leaflet Working in the UK after your studies for information about Tier 1 (General) and Tier 2 (work permits).

Education System

The UK is made up of 4 different countries - England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The education system in Scotland differs at school and undergraduate level to the other countries who follow a similar system.

Education in the UK is compulsory for everyone between the ages of five and sixteen, and is provided by two kinds of schools: independent (fee-charging) schools and state-funded schools.

Education System in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Primary School
Children normally start school at the age of 5 and move to secondary school at the age of 11. Pre-school programs are also available to students at the age of 3 or 4.

Secondary School and Post-Sixteen Education
All UK universities teach students to at least the age of 16 to prepare them for GSCEs or equivalent qualifications. Following this, students can stay on to study for AS levels (one additional year), A levels (2 additional years) or equivalent vocational qualifications. These qualifications can be done in a school, sixth-form college or college of further education.

Post Eighteen Education
Students normally commence higher education at the age of 18 and study at university or colleges of further and higher education. A Bachelor degree program normally lasts for 3-4 years, a Masters degree program for 1 year and a Doctoral degree program for 3-4 years. The UK government is currently aiming for 50% of students to continue in education after the age of 18.

Education System in Scotland
The education system in Scotland is slightly different that the rest of the UK and the main differences are as follows:
Students can enter university at the age of 17 rather than 18 as university courses in Scotland are normally one year longer than in England. Students sit Standard Grades rather than GCSEs. Students sit Higher and Advanced Higher rather than AS levels and A levels. Between the ages of 16-18 years students in Scotland often study a broader curriculum than in other parts of the UK and often do not specialize in the sciences, arts, humanities until they enter university.

Student life in UK

Many international students come to United Kingdom for its superlative education programs. Students may find many changes headed for UK culture can draw international students towards new experiences. Students can instantaneously discern the serenity, passivity and compliance in the country. As the streets and colonies are clean and tidy with bountiful of trees and flowers one can easily get attracted towards them.

Education in UK is demanding and challenging but it could discharge all your requirements. It has a long history of welcoming international students to study in its universities and colleges.

As per 2007-08 statistics non-EU have contributed more than double as compared to European Union countries and 20% of all degrees in UK were granted to international students.

Whereas the most demanding courses rationed as:

Engineering and Technology being the most sought after program with 31%. Business Administration with 29%, Computer Science – 20% and Law attracted 19% of the international students.

Academic Life in UK
With a cheerful cosmopolitan society, UK offers an outstanding learning environment that is widely renowned all over the world. International students come to UK typically to pursue their undergraduate or post-graduation courses. Many universities and colleges in UK welcome new students through organizing various events before commencing the academic course, so that students can make new friends regardless to their nations. Besides, various social and cultural activities are often run for international students throughout the year. UK universities facilitate several clubs and societies that are accessible for all the students to get involved.

Living in UK – International Students
For international students it is quite easy to develop a varied and interesting lifestyle in Britain. With an extensive student discounts and so many of the cities most appealing attractions being free, you’ll always find ways to make your money go further. Living in UK will increase the value of your studies.

Students coming from different nations have a lot of things to perceive and learn from UK. When students arrive to UK, they have to get awareness about all the costs that are to be incurred. Usually students preferring to live off-campus will choose to live in shared housing and make use of public transportation networks such as electric trains, tubes, buses.

Every university in UK has their student union that organizes several extra curricular activities like, theatre performances, movies nights and quiz nights. Besides, there are various clubs and sports in every university that varies from football, volleyball to painting, movies and etc, which are mostly run through university unions. It is a great way to meet other students and get involved in campus life.

Tourism & Traveling
Many students come to UK for its eminent educational programs and enjoy the exciting adventures in their life. Apart from high quality of education one can acquire the world’s beautiful tourist destinations. While staying in UK, students can make the most of the admirable traveling network to visit around the British Isles and continental Europe. As a student they get a wide variety of discounts and cheap deals, making the opportunity to explore even more accessible.

Students Accommodation
UK universities facilitate on-campus accommodation for all the international students for the first year. There will be an accommodation officer in every university who accommodates you in a way that better suits your requirements and budget. As the demand for UK higher education is steadily increasing, students have to apply early for the on-campus accommodation. Else students can live in off-campus accommodation. Usually universities provide accommodation in residence halls, privately owned flats and houses or home stay with a UK family. Living on-campus is a good source to meet with other students and build amity with them. Deciding where you live have a great impact on how much you enjoy your studies in UK. Therefore choose your home vigilantly.

Health Care and Wellness Living
International students have to get prepared for the extremely new conditions. It may be difficult to get personalized in the first few days. Students can avail premium health care facility accessible at affordable costs. As an international student you can acquire this facility and it is also valid for the dependants of the students from abroad. International students are entitled to get free medical treatments from National Heath Service (not valid for below 6 months study program).

Study in the USA

Interested in studying in the USA? We can help! As part of the EducationUSA network, we are the official source of information on applying to American universities for the United Kingdom.
American universities are becoming increasingly popular for UK and international students. Last year, approximately 8,700 UK students chose the US for their studies.
Ways we can support you:

• Read our website for more information on undergraduate study, postgraduate study, short-term study and school study in the US, as well as work and volunteer opportunities
• Attend a seminar on undergraduate or postgraduate study
• Attend USA College Day undergraduate study fair or USA Grad School Day workshop in the spring
• Apply for a Fulbright Award for postgraduate study in the USA
• Sign-up for our monthly e-newsletter to get the latest information on scholarships and applying for USA universities
• Visit our Resource Library.

The UK experience

Study in the UK and you’ll find an array of exciting experiences to discover - music, celebrations, accents, people to meet, places to visit – the list is endless. As the UK is such a cosmopolitan society you’ll find that many UK customs are already familiar to you – so you’ll settle in faster than you think.

UK international students more satisfied than ever

The latest results from the International Student Barometer, i-graduate’s survey of international students, revealed that an increasing number of students are satisfied with the UK education system. 81 percent of students reported that they were either ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ with university life in the UK.

Since 2009, the survey unveiled that students are increasingly satisfied with:

• Living costs (up from 63 per cent to 66 per cent satisfaction);
• Students' Union (up from 89 per cent to 91 per cent);
• Worship facilities (up from 83 per cent to 86 per cent).

 

UK student satisfaction up eight per cent since 2006

International students in the UK are increasingly satisfied with almost every aspect of university life in comparison to five years ago. Since 2006, satisfaction levels have increased the most significantly in the following areas:

 

• Language support (up from 77 per cent to 85 per cent satisfaction);
• Employability (up from 71 per cent to 78 per cent);
• Standard of teaching (up from 80 per cent to 86 per cent);
• Multiculturalism (up from 82 per cent to 89 per cent);
• Worship facilities (up from 76 per cent to 85 per cent);
• Cost of living (up from 61 per cent to 68 per cent);
• Visa advice (up from 74 per cent to 81 per cent).

 

William Archer, Director of i-graduate, who published the survey, said: “The students who provided feedback for this report came from over 100 countries to the UK. The extent of the challenge - for UK universities to meet the myriad of expectations from multiple cultures - cannot be overstated. So something has been going very right in UK higher education in its delivery against the expectations of international students”.

 

About the survey

The International Student Barometer is the world’s largest ongoing study of international students.
The bi-annual survey asks students how satisfied they are with university life - from aspects such as the library facilities to making friends with students from the host country.
Since 2005 the survey has been adopted by universities across five continents and has been completed by more than 580,000 students worldwide.
 

The 2010 UK International Student Barometer was taken by students from 48 UK institutions.

UK postgraduate study

 

Most master's degrees and MBAs at UK universities last one year compared to two in other countries, including the USA and Australia. Choosing the UK means you only have to pay tuition fees for one year and you'll be back in the workplace before you know it.

While you're here, you'll be immersed in English, the world's most important business language. At the same time, you'll be part of a truly international community - you may find as many as 50 different nationalities on a single campus.

A master's degree, PhD or MBA from a UK university will prove to employers that you're capable of independent thought and self-discipline. They’ll know you can conduct and analyse your own research and make a real contribution to their company or organisation.

UK postgraduate study that suits your needs

The wide range of UK postgraduate courses on offer gives you great flexibility. You can start by enrolling on a postgraduate diploma course (PG Dip), then transfer to a master's degree, or begin by taking an MRes (master of research), which could lead on to a PhD. It's up to you.

How long is a UK postgraduate course?

Full-time postgraduate courses in the UK vary from one year to four years, depending on the type of course you choose:

• One-year courses: Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma, Master's degrees, MBAs
• Two-year courses: Some master's degrees
• Three to four-year courses: PhDs, New Route PhDs

What UK undergraduate courses are available?

• Pre-master's courses

Pre-master's courses can last from one term to a complete academic year and cover academic study, cultural instruction and language training. You may need to take a pre-master's course if your qualifications or English language skills don't quite match the standard required for a UK master's degree. Many courses will guarantee progression on to a master's course at a particular university.

• Postgraduate certificate or diploma (PG Cert/Dip)

Postgraduate certificates and diplomas are one-year taught postgraduate courses that don't usually involve research. They're often accepted as professional qualifications, giving you a fantastic head start in your chosen career.

• Taught master's (MA, MSc, LLM, Med, etc.)

Taught master's courses generally last for one year and consist of two elements. You'll complete a number of modules (attending lectures and seminars, writing essays and taking examinations) and produce a dissertation from original research.

• Research master's (MRes, MPhil)

On a master's degree by research in the UK, you won't typically attend lectures; instead you'll devote the entire year to research. Your final mark will be determined by the quality of your dissertation.

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

 An MBA is a specialist business taught master's course that will give you a real step up the managerial ladder. It's the best-known and most popular postgraduate qualification.

• Doctorate (PhD)

A PhD, also know as a doctorate, takes three to four years to complete, during which time you'll be working on a single research project. In your final year, you'll be asked to present a dissertation of approximately 100,000 words.

New Route PhDs include taught elements as well as a research project and give you the opportunity to undertake interdisciplinary study.

Look for all types of UK postgraduate study in the course finder.

Working while you study in the UK

As an international student in the UK you can work up to 20 hours a week in term-time. Getting a job while you study in the UK can improve your language skills and enhance your CV.