Experiencing the UK Skilled Worker visa: China, 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?

Thoughts on your visa 

I would advise aiming for getting a Skilled Work visa.  

Support and development 

“In the beginning it can be quite daunting.” 

During my penultimate year, I started to apply for internship/graduate programmes mainly in the media industry. In the beginning, it was quite daunting, as I did not have a clue what the application process was like, or what the hiring criteria were. I was either rejected or never heard back from my 20 applications.  

I reached out for guidance from my university’s career centre. They provided me with a CV sample, which was great. However, it was still hard to know which job opportunities were out there (in the media industry mainly) that would suit me as a foreign student. Due to my lack of knowledge of the general job market for graduate students with my experience, this stage of applications failed. 
 
At the beginning of my last university year, I connected with another Chinese student who secured a graduate job in the financial industry. She shared a lot of first-hand insights about the industry. I then started to research and switched to looking for banking jobs. Within two months, I received a summer internship offer that eventually led to a return offer for a graduate talent programme. 

I received support from my university careers service, including a one-to-one appointment with a careers adviser. I received CV feedback, had practice interviews and attended assessment centres. I also attended an employer event, and gained access to job vacancy listings. 

Employer knowledge and attitudes 

Some large institutions stated that they would not accept candidates on a Graduate route visa, as there would be an extra cost to switch from the Graduate route to a Skilled Worker visa. More small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which need a cheaper human resource for positions that are highly replicable can benefit from it. However, private SMEs will have to raise the benchmark for candidates who need sponsorship. 

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

“Make use of your university careers centre.” 

I would say to start your research and application process early. Make use of your university careers centre and connect with alumni.