Experiencing the UK Graduate route: Kenya, master's degree

The Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS), a member of UKCISA’s International Student Employability Group (ISEG), has captured the experiences of international graduates seeking employment in the UK after graduation in a series of case studies.

Who are you?

Thoughts on your visa 

Although the Graduate route visa was meant to make getting a professional job easier, most employers are still looking for people with permanent right to work in the UK.

The application process was easy and I got a response within 10 days. The cost is however quite high. I feel like we’re being double charged for healthcare since we are taxed when we work but still have to pay the yearly NHS surcharge.

Support and development 

While at university, I received CV feedback. Since graduating, I have been undertaking free weekly online classes and training courses.

Employer knowledge and attitudes 

My impression is that very few employers know about the Graduate route as it is still quite new. Most employers are still looking for graduates with permanent right to work in the UK. Some make it pretty clear in the job advert, and in some cases it has been the first question an employer asked me in our first correspondence. Most of the times I have been passed over for a job at the last stage of recruitment in favour for a British or settled EU citizen.

What advice would you give to current international students seeking graduate employment in the UK?  

To start applying while still in university and get as much UK based experience in the industry they want to work in while in university.