The 2025 Guide to Applying for PSW Visa in UK

You’ve wrapped up your final coursework. dissertation and exams are over. The graduation cap is ready to be tossed. But as you celebrate that hard-earned degree, one question looms large: what’s next?

If you’re an international student in the UK , the Post-Study Work visa, officially called the Graduate Route, could be your answer. This visa offers an exciting opportunity to stay in the country and explore work options after graduation , without needing a job offer upfront.

Whether you’re aiming to build your career, gain real-world experience, or just enjoy a little more time in the UK, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about PSW in UK , from eligibility to application, fees to flexibility all in one place.

What Is the PSW in UK?

The PSW visa in UK is a visa route that allows international graduates to remain in the UK for two years after completing an eligible course. For PhD graduates, it’s extended to three years.

The best part of the Graduate visa is that it’s open. You can work full-time, part-time, freelance, or even launch your own business. Unlike the Skilled Worker visa, there’s no requirement for a job offer, minimum salary, or employer sponsorship. That freedom gives you room to explore, settle in, and build your path forward.

Who Is Eligible for the Graduate Route?

Not everyone can apply ,  but if you tick these boxes, you’re likely good to go:

1. You’ve completed an eligible bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree at a recognised UK higher education provider.
2. Your university has officially reported your course completion to the Home Office.
3. You currently hold a valid Student visa.
4. You apply after you’ve received your final results and before your Student visa expires.
5. You’re physically in the UK at the time of your application.

You don’t need a job lined up. You don’t need sponsorship. You don’t even need to show financial proof or maintenance funds,  a welcome relief after years of budgeting on a student income.

What Are the Costs Involved?

To apply for the PSW visa in UK, you’ll need to pay two main fees:

Visa application fee: £822

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year (That’s £2,070 for the standard two-year visa)

Total: £2,892 — paid online during the application. These costs are non-refundable, so it’s worth double-checking your documents and eligibility before starting.

When and How to Apply for PSW visa in UK

You can only apply after you’ve received your final academic results and your university has confirmed completion to the Home Office. But don’t leave it too long ,  you must apply before your Student visa expires.

Here’s a simple step-by-step:

1. Confirm your eligibility once your results are in.
2. Wait for your university to report your course completion (they usually do this automatically, but follow up if you’re unsure).
3. Apply online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal.
4. Submit supporting documents (we’ll list them below).
5. Verify your identity via the UK Immigration: ID Check app or attend a biometric appointment if required.
6. Stay in the UK while your application is being processed , leaving the country may void your application.

Processing usually takes up to eight weeks, although many applicants receive their decisions much sooner.

What Documents Do You Need?

It’s a fairly straightforward list:

1. A valid passport or travel document
2. Details of your current Student visa
3. Proof that you’ve completed your course (your university sends this directly to UKVI)
4. Confirmation of visa fee and IHS payment
5. Biometric Residence Permit (if you were issued one)

Accuracy and consistency are essential here. If any of your documents don’t match up, it could delay or derail your application.

One of the most attractive parts of the PSW visa in UK is that you’re not required to show proof of financial maintenance. However, it’s wise to ensure you have enough to support yourself while job hunting or transitioning into paid roles.

What Kind of Work Can You Do on a PSW Visa in UK?

The PSW visa in UK is flexible. That means you can:

• Work full-time in any sector , from hospitality to finance, tech to retail
• Take on part-time or freelance gigs
• Be self-employed
• Work on a temporary or fixed-term contract

The only restriction is that you can’t work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach. Other than that, the world (or at least the UK) is yours.

This flexibility makes the PSW ideal for those still figuring out their long-term plans or testing different career paths before settling down.

Making the Most of Your PSW Years

So, what’s life really like after uni on a PSW visa?

For many graduates, this is a golden time. You’re no longer tied to classes, but you’re still deeply connected to your university network, your city, and your friends. Whether you’re staying in your student accommodation temporarily or moving into a shared flat, this is your moment to build a new rhythm of life.

Some grads choose to stay close to their uni  ,either to ease into their new routine or because student accommodation contracts allow a bit of buffer while job hunting. Others relocate to bigger cities like London, Manchester, or Birmingham to dive into broader job markets.

Whichever path you choose, the PSW visa gives you two years to live, work, explore, and gain the kind of UK experience that strengthens both your CV and your confidence.

Can the PSW visa in UK Be Refused?

Yes, but it’s rare.

Most refusals happen because of:

• Applying before receiving final results
• Expired Student visa before application
• Incorrect or missing documents
• University failing to report course completion

If you follow the guidelines and ensure your university does their part, you should be in a strong position. The approval rate is over 95%.

What Happens When Your PSW Visa Ends?

As you near the end of your two (or three) years, you’ll need to plan your next step. You might:

• Switch to a Skilled Worker visa (once you’ve secured a qualifying job and employer sponsorship)
• Apply for another visa like the Start-up, Global Talent, or even return as a postgraduate student
• Explore opportunities in another country
• Return home with a strong resume and international work experience

Time on the PSW doesn’t count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), but it can be a stepping stone to a longer-term visa that does.

Can You Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa?

Yes, and many graduates do.

If you secure a job that meets the Skilled Worker criteria ,  typically a specific salary level and sponsorship from a licensed employer , you can switch from inside the UK. This pathway opens doors to longer stays and, eventually, permanent settlement.

The PSW in UK isn’t just a visa. It’s your transition phase , from student to professional, from uncertainty to opportunity.

You’ve already done the hard work. This is your time to breathe, explore, experiment, and grow. Whether that means freelancing, starting a career in the UK, or figuring out your next steps , the Graduate Route is designed to give you space and flexibility.

Make the most of it. Talk to your university’s career services. Attend networking events. Keep your CV updated. Say yes to the opportunities that come your way , even the unexpected ones.

Your UK story doesn’t have to end at graduation. With the PSW visa in UK, it might just be getting started.

Looking for student accommodation for your current or upcoming studies? Discover our range of premium properties in top UK cities like  Nottingham, Loughborough and beyond. Start exploring your ideal space today.