UK Student Visa vs Graduate Visa

So, you’re thinking about studying or working in the UK? Well, that’s awesome!

The UK is home to some of the world’s best universities and a place that allows you to have the opportunity of international level standards to grow in your career.

But before you settle here, it’s important to understand the visa options that are available to you. 

Specifically, you’ll want to get familiar with the UK Student Visa and the UK Graduate Visa.

This is because these two visas are like different chapters in your UK journey, as one focuses on your studies, while the other helps you to start your career.

Anyway, this post is here to break down everything you need to know about these visas in a simple way. 

So, without any further words, let’s dive in.

Use of the UK Student Visa

Alright, let’s start with the basics. 

The UK Student Visa, formerly known as the Tier 4 Visa, is your ticket to studying in the UK. 

It’s specifically designed for international students who’ve been accepted into a licensed educational institution as in universities, colleges, or even language schools.

Anyway, to qualify for this visa, you’ll need to meet a few key requirements:

• You must have an official offer from a recognized UK institution.

• You need to prove that you’ve got the financial needs to support yourself (and maybe your dependents) while you’re there.

• You’ll also need to show that your English skills are at a good band score.

With that, once you’ve got your visa, the advantages are pretty amazing. 

For starters, you’re allowed to study full-time at your chosen institution. 

Plus, you can work part-time during term time (up to 20 hours a week) and full-time during holidays. 

Whereas this gives you a chance to earn some extra cash or gain valuable work experience.

Note: The duration of your visa depends on how long your course is. For example, if you’re doing a three-year degree, your visa will likely cover those three years plus a little extra time for wrapping things up.

Use of the UK Graduate Visa

Now, let’s talk about the other type. 

Once your studies are done, you can consider the Graduate Visa, also known as the Post-Study Work Visa. 

Trust us, this one’s a game-changer for international students who want to stay in the UK and find their passion in the job market.

Here’s how it works: If you’ve completed an eligible degree from a UK higher education institution, you can apply for this visa within a specific time frame after graduation. 

Once approved, you’ll get up to two years or probably three years, if you’ve done a PhD, to live, work, or look for work in the UK.

Plus, there are no restrictions on the type of job you can take or the salary you need to earn. 

This means that whether you’re hunting for a dream role in finance, tech, or the arts, this visa gives you the freedom to explore. 

Moreover, it’s a great step to take if you’re considering a long-term residency in the UK.

Note: Transitioning from a Student Visa to a Graduate Visa is a simple process, but timing is key. Therefore, make sure you apply before your Student Visa expires, or you might find yourself in a tricky spot.

Differences Between These Two Visas

Let’s compare these two visas side by side so you can see the differences between those.

Purpose

The Student Visa is all about studying, as in it’s for people who want to focus on their education. 

The Graduate Visa, on the other hand, is for grads ready to take on the working world.

Eligibility Requirements

For the Student Visa, you need to be accepted into a course. 

For the Graduate Visa, you need to have already finished your studies.

Work Opportunities

On a Student Visa, you’re limited to part-time work during term time and full-time during breaks. 

With the Graduate Visa, you’ve got unrestricted work rights, as in you can take any job that you like.

Duration

The Student Visa lasts as long as your course does, plus a bit of extra time. 

However, the Graduate Visa gives you a fixed extension of two or three years, depending on your degree level.

Pathway to Settlement

Both visas can lead to other immigration routes, like the Skilled Worker Visa. 

However, the Graduate Visa often feels like a more direct path because it allows you to build professional experience in the UK.

Conclusion

Alright, let’s recap. 

The UK Student Visa is perfect for studies and getting the UK experience, while the Graduate Visa is ideal for finding your career or exploring job opportunities. 

Remember that both visas are amazing, but with different purposes.

Anyway, at the end of the day, these visas are here to support your journey, whether you’re chasing academic dreams or building a career in the UK. 

After all, studying or working in the UK is an adventure you’ll never forget. Therefore, Cheers to that!

Contact TEVS a UK student visa consultants in Sri Lanka for more details.