.

Working in the UK after your studies

If you currently have a Tier 4 or old style student visa and wish to work in the UK after you complete your studies, you will need a different type of visa. You can find further information below. If you'd like to discuss your situation in more detail, contact us for help and advice, or to arrange an appointment.

Post Study Work is now closed to new applicants

Tier 1 Post-study work (Applications closed 6 April 2012)

Most students will need to apply under Tier 2 General in order to work in the UK after the end of their course

Tier 2 General visas for in country applications  

Points-based visa for skilled migrants with a job offer.

A few students may be eligible to apply under one of the more specialist visa routes in Tier 1


Visas for Entrepreneurs

  • Tier 1 Entrepreneur - For highly skilled migrants who want to set up or take over, and be actively involved in the running of, a business in the UK.      
  • Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur - For graduates with a genuine and credible business idea or entrepreneurial skill, but who are not yet able to apply for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa
  • Prospective Entrepreneur - a six month visa for those seeking funding for a new business idea.

Tier 1 Exceptional Talent

A visa for highly-skilled economic migrants who have won international recognition in scientific or cultural fields, or who show exceptional promise.

Need a visa for the Pre-registration Year in Pharmacy or Optometry?

Optometry students may have the option to study as Aston students during the pre-registration year. You'll need to be enrolled on the MOptom programme and extend your student visa. Please book an appointment with an International Student Adviser to discuss this.

Optometry students who are not going to take the MOptom may not be able to use Tier 2, but please read our information on Tier 5.

Pharmacy students may now be able to use Tier 2 for the pre-reg year, as the salary requirements have been changed. If you do not meet the minimum salary requirement for Tier 2, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society may sponsor you under the Tier 5 Government Authorised Exchange Scheme for pre-reg students.

Tier 5 - Pre-registration employment

Possible option for Optometry and Pharmacy students.

Page checked and updated 23 April 2013 LB

Careers & Employability Centre

Careers & Employability Centre

Get careers help & advice tailored to Aston's international students

Don't forget to keep the UK Border Agency up to date with your personal details

Don't forget to keep the UK Border Agency up to date with your personal details

During your course you must make sure your details are accurate on MAP and your visa, but even after you graduate you must continue to update the UKBA where necessary.