International Graduate Scheme Opens Doors

11/05/2007

International Graduate Scheme

If you are graduating on or after May 1, 2007 and would like to gain work experience here in the United Kingdom, the International Graduate Scheme (IGS) may be just for you. This Scheme allows UK graduates to access the labour market regardless of their chosen field of study. Graduates may work up to 12 months after having completed and obtained a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, PhD, or postgraduate certificate or diploma. Under the Graduate Scheme, participants can pursue any type of employment or self-employment. At the end of the 12 month period, graduates can transition into another employment or self-employment category if they meet the relevant requirements. Otherwise, they must leave the country at that time.
The following qualifications must be met in order to be eligible for the Scheme:
-have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or postgraduate certificate or diploma
within the last 12 months.
-intend to work during the period of leave granted under the Scheme
-ability to maintain and accommodate themselves without recourse to public
funds
-intend to depart the UK at the end of their stay (unless granted leave as a
work permit holder, highly skilled migrant, business person, innovator or
student)

Students may apply for the IGS prior to being issued their degree or certificate, but must provide a letter from their institution verifying that they have successfully completed their course. Graduates may also transition into the Scheme while still in the UK if they still have valid leave as a student. Alternatively, graduates can apply to return to the UK from their home country no later than one year after the completion of their course.
If a graduate’s studies have been sponsored by a government or international scholarship agency, the applicant for the IGS will need to provide written permission from their sponsor before applying.
If you would like further information in regard to the International Graduate Scheme and are interested in applying, please visit the following website which will provide you with the necessary forms: