Experiencing the UK Graduate route: Costa Rica, PhD

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 really think that being able to have the option of a graduate visa is invaluable.”

I am very happy with the visa, however, the wait for a response was very long and more than 12 weeks. I am aware that the reasons for this delay may be due to Covid issues.

In general, the application process was easy, but it is very expensive. I had savings, but waiting more than 12 weeks for a response was very stressful.

Support and development 

While at university, I received CV feedback.

Employer knowledge and attitudes  

My current employer was not aware of the Graduate route visa. I knew that I was going to apply for a Graduate route visa and therefore I did not look for a job which would require sponsorship.

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

I really think that being able to have the option of a Graduate visa is invaluable. Otherwise, it would be very difficult to get a job. Most of my international friends who graduated before me (July 2021) did not get a job.