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Further information about higher education and working in the UK

English language courses

Most universities and colleges provide English language courses and other forms of support to help you with your studies. The British Council also provides information about English language support.

You may want to take English classes when you arrive in the UK - for more information see EnglishUK. If you are also interested in improving your academic listening skills, ease (essential academic skills in English), may be able to help.

Sitting on a bench outside

Working in the UK after your studies

At the moment, the schemes that are most significant for students who have finished their studies are:

  • Tier 1 (Post-Study Work) for those who have obtained a UK degree, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education or a Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (or an HND from a Scottish institution). This replaced the International Graduates Scheme (IGS) and the Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme from 30 June 2008. If you have immigration permission under the IGS now, you can apply for an extra year under Tier 1 (Post-Study Work), and it does not matter what type of qualification you have.
  • Tier 2 for jobs where no one in the resident labour market can be recruited, and occupations where there is a shortage of qualified workers. This replaced work permits and some other work routes from 27 November 2008.
  • Tier 1 (General) for those with a degree, work experience and prior earnings at a certain level. This replaced the Highly Skilled Migrants Programme.

(Information extracted from the UKCISA website - see www.ukcisa.org.uk).

View the information on the UK Border Agency website.

You might find the NASES (National Association of Student Employment Services) website useful - the site helps international students with employment-related issues, such as how to create a successful CV and apply for vacancies.

Other useful links