How to apply

Find out if you qualify for a Graduate visa, what documents you need to provide, how you can apply and how long you need to wait for a decision. You must be inside the UK with a valid student visa and have successfully complete an eligible programme. You may use the UKVI app to apply.

Important: Before you can apply

We must report your 'successful course completion' to UKVI.

You should receive a University email about our report before you are able to apply. If you apply without being reported, your visa application may be refused. 

If your Student visa expires in 4 weeks, and you haven't received your graduate report notification, please seek urgent advice from our service.

Graduate visa overview

 

Step 1: Check you meet the visa requirements

You need to meet several requirements to qualify for the Graduate route. Find out what documents you need to show when you apply and if a Graduate visa would meet your needs.

Step 2: Student Immigration Service reports your completed award

We will contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) when your degree has been successfully awarded. We will let you know when we have done this.

Step 3: Submit your application and prove your identity

When you apply for a Graduate visa you also need to prove your identity. You will usually receive a decision within eight weeks. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will notify you of the exact start and end date of your visa.

Step 4: Wait for and receive a decision

You cannot leave the UK until you get the decision from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

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