Finding Work in the UK After Graduation: A Guide for International Students

Written By Thom Howell

If you're looking to work in the UK after your studies, you may be able to do so via the Graduate Route visa, and later by switching to a sponsored Skilled Worker visa.

The Graduate Route allows eligible international students to stay in the UK for up to 2 years (or 3 years if you completed a PhD) to work, look for work, or become self-employed. After the Graduate Route ends, many international graduates switch to a Skilled Worker visa, which requires employer sponsorship. This visa currently allows you to stay and work in the UK for up to 5 years, and is extendable.

Below are some tips to help you understand more about how to find work in the UK after you graduate.

Make the Most of Your University Support

Careers Services: Every UK university has a careers team offering tailored advice on applications, job hunting, and visa options. Use them early and often — they’re a fantastic resource.

Alumni Mentoring: Many universities offer alumni platforms where you can connect with graduates who’ve walked a similar path. These connections can offer insight, encouragement, and often, opportunities.

Build Work Experience (It All Counts)

Whether it’s a part-time job, internship, or volunteering, UK employers highly value practical experience. Even roles in retail, hospitality, or student societies can teach transferable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and time management.

Real-world experience shows employers that you can work in UK workplace environments and adds credibility to your CV, no matter the role.

Join Clubs & Societies

Getting involved on campus helps you meet people, build soft skills, and develop leadership qualities. Many students find unexpected opportunities through societies, such as networking with alumni or discovering career paths they hadn't considered.

Use Trusted Career Resources

One of the best websites for students and graduates is Prospects.ac.uk. It has:

  • Job profiles (with entry routes, skills needed, and typical employers)

  • Sector overviews

  • Advice on applications, visas, and more

Also check:

Recognise Your Strengths as an International Student

You’ve already demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and courage by studying abroad, and likely developed key skills like:

  • Research & critical thinking

  • Communication (in multiple languages!)

  • Problem-solving under pressure

  • Cultural awareness & global mindset

Use the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain how you used these skills in real-life situations — this makes your experience more tangible to employers. (See our STAR article for more.)

LinkedIn: Not Just for Professionals

LinkedIn isn’t just for job seekers — it’s a powerful tool to research career paths, connect with professionals, and build your brand.

  • Follow companies, join groups, and search for alumni from your university.

  • Reach out (politely!) to ask for advice — many professionals are happy to help.

  • Keep your profile up to date and tailored to your goals.

Update Your CV

Your CV should be:

  • Tailored to each job – use the job description to mirror key terms

  • Clear and concise – no more than two pages

  • Results-focused – show what you achieved, not just what you did

  • Accompanied by a strong cover letter that connects your skills to the role

5 Growing Sectors in the UK (2024/25)

Here are five sectors with strong job prospects and high demand for skilled graduates:

1. Technology & Digital

UK tech is booming – London, Manchester, and Leeds are major hubs.

2. Health & Life Sciences

The NHS and research sectors always need skilled professionals.

3. Engineering & Renewable Energy

From infrastructure to green tech, this sector is growing fast.

4. Creative Industries & Media

Opportunities in marketing, design, content, and film.

5. Finance & Fintech

London remains a global finance hub, with growth in fintech.

Final Thoughts

Yes, finding a job in the UK after graduation is challenging — but it’s absolutely achievable. Use every resource available: your university, online tools, alumni, and your own initiative.

Be persistent, stay open-minded, and remember — every experience counts.

Thom Howell
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