Experiencing the UK Graduate route: Turkey, undergraduate degree

The Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS), a member of UKCISA’s International Student Employability Group (ISEG), has captured the experiences of international graduates seeking employment in the UK after graduation in a series of case studies.

Who are you?

Where do you work?

“Definitely apply for the visa, because at least you will have the chance to gain experience.”

Thoughts on your visa

It’s been difficult trying to secure my first legal role. I waitressed for the first 6 months. And even though I’ve secured my first starting role, this position isn’t enough to offer me a sponsorship. Law being one of the most competitive fields to get into, means that unless I can secure a training contract by September 2023, then I am out of the country. Nevertheless, without this new visa, I wouldn’t even have the chance to gain experience in the UK.

The application was very quick and easy to complete. It was quite expensive which was the most difficult part in obtaining the visa for me. It took about 2 days or so to complete and I received an answer in the next few days.

“The application was very quick and easy to complete.”

Support and development

Through the university careers service, I had a one-to-one appointment with a careers adviser, and attended an employer event, a skills enhancement session and a careers fair. I also gained access to job vacancy listings.

Law is just really difficult to get into. And the main reason for rejection is often the lack of experience. Had my university provided a legal shadowing experience, the story might have been different.

Employer knowledge and attitudes

They don’t look at post study work visas very warmly. It definitely stands as an obstacle.

What advice would you give to current international students seeking graduate employment in the UK?

Definitely apply for the visa, because at least you will have the chance to gain experience.