How to Apply for a Post-Study Work (PSW) Visa After Your Master’s – UK education consultants in Hyderabad
Finishing your Master’s in the UK is a huge milestone. Naturally, your next question is: how can you stay and work after graduation? This guide walks you through the Post-Study Work (PSW) / Graduate visa process from a student-focused perspective -what to expect, the exact steps to apply, documents you’ll need, costs to plan for, and practical tips from UK education consultants in Hyderabad who help Indian students every day.
Why the Graduate (PSW) route matters to you
The Graduate visa lets international students remain in the UK after finishing a degree to work, look for work, or gain experience -a vital bridge from study to career. It normally lasts 2 years for most Master’s graduates (3 years for PhD graduates). You must be in the UK when you apply. GOV.UK
Quick overview (what you’ll accomplish)
- Confirm eligibility and timing.
- Gather required documents (passport, BRP, CAS, finances).
- Complete the online application on GOV.UK, pay the fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Book any biometric appointment if requested.
- Receive your visa decision and plan your next steps (work, switch visas).
Important: the Graduate visa allows working at any skill level and does not require sponsor employment. This flexibility makes it a popular choice for recent graduates. UKCISA
Step-by-step application process
Step 1: Check eligibility and timing
- You must have completed an eligible UK degree (sponsored by a licensed sponsor).
- Apply while you are in the UK and before your current student permission expires. GOV.UK
Step 2: Documents you’ll need
Prepare scanned copies and originals where required:
- Passport (and any prior passports).
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) -keep your CAS record.
- Proof you completed the course (a letter or transcript from your university).
- Current Biometric Residence Permit (if you have one).
- Evidence of identity (photograph, national ID) as required.
Tip: Keep both digital and physical copies organized in a single folder.
Step 3: Online application on GOV.UK
- Create or log in to your UKVI account and fill the Graduate visa application.
- Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as instructed. The GOV.UK cost pages list the current application fee and the usual IHS amount per year -you’ll see the exact totals when you apply.
Step 4: Biometric appointment (if required)
Most applicants will either use an existing Biometric Residence Permit or be instructed to attend a biometric appointment. Follow the instructions you receive after payment. Keep proof of appointments and receipts.
Step 5: Waiting for a decision and next steps
Your visa becomes valid from the date your application is approved. You cannot extend the Graduate visa, but you may switch to other routes (e.g., Skilled Worker) if eligible. Plan ahead for job search, CV updates, and networking. GOV.UK
Cost breakdown (estimate & how to budget)
Costs change, so always verify on GOV.UK at application time. Typical cost areas to budget for:
- Application fee -see GOV.UK for the current fee at the time of application. GOV.UK
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) -usually charged per year for your visa length; GOV.UK lists typical per-year IHS rates. GOV.UK+1
- Biometric/appointment charges (where applicable).
- Translation, document certification, and courier fees.
Budgeting tip: keep an extra buffer equal to 10-15% of the estimated visa costs to cover last-minute charges.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Applying from outside the UK -the Graduate route requires you to be in the UK when you apply; applying from abroad will lead to refusal.
- Missing documents or incorrect scans -double-check sizes, formats, and translations.
- Late application -apply early to avoid gaps between visas.
- Relying on outdated fee info -visa fees and the IHS have changed recently; always confirm on GOV.UK before paying.
Practical timeline (realistic expectations)
- 0-2 weeks: Collect documents, confirm course completion with your university.
- 1-3 days: Complete online form, pay fees and IHS.
- 2-6 weeks: Decision time can vary -some get decisions faster, others take longer if additional checks are required. Prepare for job search or visa switching thereafter.
How UK education consultants in Hyderabad help
If you’re based in India, a trusted advisor can simplify the process:
- Checklist creation tailored to your case.
- Document verification and error-checking.
- Timely reminders (application windows, university letters).
- Mock interviews or employer-facing paperwork help for switching visas later.
Look for a consultant with verified testimonials and transparent pricing -many Indian students ask for referrals to the best consultancy for UK in Hyderabad when they want hands-on support.
Note: Policy changes are under discussion in the UK; for example, there have been proposals to shorten the Graduate route from two years to 18 months as part of immigration reform debates. These are proposals and may change; check official guidance before planning long-term. House of Commons Library
FAQs (student-focused)
Q: How long does the PSW/Graduate visa last after a Master’s?
A: Usually 2 years for taught Master’s graduates (3 years for PhD graduates). GOV.UK
Q: Can I work full-time on the Graduate visa?
A: Yes -you can work at any skill level, full-time or part-time, and are free to be self-employed. UKCISA
Q: Can I extend the Graduate visa?
A: No -you cannot extend it. You must switch to another eligible visa (like Skilled Worker) before it expires if you wish to stay.
Q: Must I get a job offer to apply?
A: No -the Graduate visa does not require a job offer or sponsor to apply.
Checklist before you apply (printable)
- Confirm course completion with university.
- Have your passport & BRP ready.
- Gather CAS, transcripts, and completion letter.
- Save funds for application fee + IHS.
- Keep translations and certifications handy.
- Book biometric appointment if needed.
Final tips
- Start early -don’t wait until your student permission is about to expire.
- Keep digital proofs -screenshots of payment, confirmation emails, and appointment receipts.
- Network while studying -internships and part-time roles can turn into graduate jobs.
- Consult a trusted advisor -if paperwork stress is high, reach out to UK education consultants in Hyderabad or ask for recommendations to the best consultancy for UK in Hyderabad to get local support.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Applying for the Graduate (PSW) visa is a strategic step toward launching your career after a Master’s in the UK. If you’re unsure about paperwork or timing, consult experienced UK education consultants in Hyderabad like Triospace Overseas, who can review your documents, run a pre-application check, and guide you through the process.
