Understanding the Job Search Period for MBA Graduates in the UK

For international students completing an MBA in the UK, securing employment post-graduation is a crucial step. One key opportunity available is the Graduate Route visa, which has become an essential pathway to finding work in the UK. This article will guide you through the details of the Graduate Route visa, including the job search period and the conditions that might affect it.

Graduate Route Visa Overview

After completing an MBA, international students can apply for the Graduate Route visa, which enables them to remain and work in the UK for a specified period. The duration of this visa varies depending on the length of the MBA course. For a course lasting 12 months or more, the post-study work route allows an individual to stay and seek employment for up to 2 years. However, for those who completed a course between 6 to 12 months, the period is reduced to just 2 months. It's important to note that the requirements and conditions of this visa can change, so always check the latest information provided by the UK government.

Special Validations in the Tier 4 Pilot Scheme

A modified version of the Graduate Route visa, known as the Tier 4 Pilot scheme, provides extended job search periods. Specifically, students from universities participating in this pilot scheme are entitled to up to 6 months to find employment. Currently, four esteemed universities are part of this pilot scheme:

University of Oxford University of Cambridge Imperial College London University of Bath

Moreover, the Tier 4 Pilot scheme is to expand to a total of 27 universities. This expansion, starting from academic year 2018/19, will provide more students with the flexibility to seek employment. The additional universities joining the scheme include:

Cardiff University Goldsmiths College U of London Harper Adams University Newcastle University Queens University Belfast Royal Central School of Speech Drama University of Bristol University of Durham University of East Anglia University of Edinburgh University of Essex University of Exeter University of Glasgow University of Leicester University of Liverpool University of Manchester University of Nottingham University of Reading University of Sheffield University of Southampton Trinity Saint David University of Wales University of Warwick University of York

This expansion will significantly benefit future MBA graduates, providing them more time to explore job opportunities within their desired fields.

Concluding Thoughts

The Graduate Route visa and the Tier 4 Pilot scheme offer international MBA graduates invaluable opportunities to secure employment and build their careers in the UK. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and conditions of these visas to make the most of the opportunities available. Always verify the latest information from official sources to stay informed and prepared.