International: next steps

What is Tier 1 Post-study work (PSW)?

Tier 1 (Post-study work) was launched on 30 June 2008 in place of the International Graduates Scheme. It enables international students who have successfully completed an eligible course in the UK to seek employment without having to rely on an employer ("sponsor") or a specific job offer.

During your time under Post-study work (PSW), you can take any type of employment or self-employment for a maximum of 24 months. If you want to remain in the UK beyond your leave under PSW in order to pursue your career, you can switch into other employment or self-employment categories of the Points-Based Immigration System, as long as you meet the relevant requirements.

How do I qualify under the Scheme?

Tier 1 (Post-study work) is part of the new Points-Based Immigration System which is being introduced to the UK. Therefore, you need to obtain a certain number of points in order to qualify.

You must obtain a total of 95 points which are scored as follows:

• 75 points for attributes
• 10 points for English language
• 10 points for maintenance (funds).

You can access the UK Border Agency online tool that enables you to self-assess your application to see whether you are likely to score enough points for the application to succeed.

How do I accrue sufficient points?

Attributes include:

1. Qualification (20 points)

You must have been awarded one of the following:

• a UK recognised bachelor or postgraduate degree
• a UK Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE)
• a Higher National Diploma from a Scottish institution.

2. Institution (20 points)

You must have studied for your award at an institution recognised by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS). Roehampton University is recognised by the DIUS.

3. Immigration permission during your study (20 points)

You must have carried out your period of UK study and/or research whilst you had immigration permissions as a student and/or a dependant of someone with immigration permission in any category which allows the admittance of dependants.

4. Time limited for applying (15 points)

You must make your application for Tier 1 (Post-study work) within 12 months of obtaining your relevant qualification. This means that you must apply within 12 months of first being notified in writing by the University that you have been awarded the qualification. The letter from the University which you have to submit as evidence that you have a relevant qualification must contain information about the date of award of your qualification.

Additional requirements

Additionally you must have:

English Language

10 points for English language (you have this automatically if you have 75 points in attributes)

Maintenance

If you are applying for entry clearance from outside the UK, you must be able to show that you have £2,800 on the date of application and you must have had at least that amount available to you for three months before your application. This means that the level of funds in your bank account must not have fallen below £2,800 at any time during the three months before you apply for entry clearance as a Tier 1 (Post-study work) Migrant.

If you are applying to stay in the UK, the required level of funds is £800. You must be able to show that you have held this sum in your account for three months before applying, in the same way as for entry clearance applications.

Application form

Please ensure you use the current version of Tier 1 Post-study work application, available on the UK Border Agency website. Old versions of the Tier 1 Post-study work and FLR(O) form are invalid and any visa applications made on them will be refused.

How much does an application under Tier 1 Post-study work cost?

If you are making a postal application from within the UK, the cost is £594. The Home Office also offer a premium same-day service at a cost of £918, where you go in person to the Home Office in Croydon - see the UK Border Agency website for details. 

If you are applying from your home country under Tier 1 (PSW), the cost is currently £474.

How long will it take for my application to be processed?

You should allow 4–6 weeks for your application to be considered. You are strongly advised not to book or plan any travel outside of the UK while your application is pending. You are legally entitled to remain in the UK under your previous conditions of entry while awaiting a decision.

Will Roehampton University be able to check my application?

The University’s International Student Immigration Officer can provide an informal review of your application and supporting paperwork. To make an appointment to use this service, email: michelle.kennedy-lamb@roehampton.ac.uk.

Sources of information regarding PSW

• UKCISA: Working in the UK after your studies  
• UK Border Agency website.

Please be aware that the University of Roehampton is unable to submit the application form on your behalf. 

It is your responsibility to ensure that your application is processed in good time. You must apply for a new visa before your current visa expires.

Disclaimer

This information should not be viewed as legal representation. The guidance offered is to be viewed strictly as guidance and not as legal advice.

The information on this page is correct as of 6 April 2010.