The UK Graduate Route allows eligible international students to stay in the UK after successfully completing an eligible course. It is important to check the latest rules because the duration and costs can change.
Duration in 2026 and 2027
GOV.UK states that a Graduate visa lasts 2 years if you apply on or before 31 December 2026, and 18 months if you apply on or after 1 January 2027. PhD or doctoral graduates can stay for 3 years.
Cost
GOV.UK lists the Graduate visa application fee as GBP 937. Applicants also pay the healthcare surcharge, which is usually GBP 1,035 per year for this route. The IHS amount depends on visa length.
Basic Eligibility Points
- You must be in the UK when applying.
- You must have a valid Student visa or Tier 4 permission.
- You must have successfully completed an eligible UK course.
- Your education provider must report successful completion where required.
- You must apply before your Student permission expires.
Career Planning
The Graduate Route can give time to seek work experience, but it is not a guarantee of employment or settlement. Students should build skills, CV, networking, and employer research during their studies.
Official Sources to Check
- GOV.UK Student visa: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa
- GOV.UK Student visa money requirement: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/money
- GOV.UK Student visa documents: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/documents-you-must-provide
- GOV.UK visa fees: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visa-regulations-revised-table
- GOV.UK Graduate visa: https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa
- Study UK British Council scholarships and funding: https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding
UK visa rules, fees, living-cost requirements, IHS, work conditions, Graduate Route duration, and university deadlines can change. Always confirm the latest official guidance and university pages before applying.