Will Sept 2023 UK MS grads get a 2-year work visa?

If you join the September 2023 intake for your master's program in the UK, you will be eligible for the 2-year post-study work visa (also known as the Graduate Visa) even though the UK government is planning to remove it in January 2024.

Here’s why:

1. Current Rules for the Graduate Visa:

• The Graduate Visa allows international students to stay in the UK for up to 2 years after completing a degree at a UK higher education provider that is a recognized sponsor.

• As of now, this Graduate Visa is available for students completing a degree at the bachelor's level or above.

• The key point here is that the UK government's planned changes do not affect students who have already started their courses before the new rules come into effect.

2. Impact of the Change:

• The UK government has announced that from January 2024, the 2-year post-study work visa will no longer be available to new international students.

• However, if you start your program in September 2023 and complete it according to the current rules, you will be eligible for the Graduate Visa (2-year post-study work visa), even if you apply for it after January 2024.

• In essence, the rule change will apply only to students starting their courses after the new policy comes into effect in January 2024.

3. What Does This Mean for You?

• Start Date Matters: Since your course starts in September 2023, you will be eligible for the 2-year Graduate Visa after you complete your master's degree, even if the UK removes this option for future students in January 2024.

• Duration of Eligibility: You can apply for the Graduate Visa in the UK after your studies and, if granted, it will allow you to stay for 2 years to work or look for work in any job at any skill level.

4. Next Steps:

• Ensure Your Enrollment: Make sure you are officially enrolled in a recognized UK institution offering a course that qualifies for the Graduate Visa.

• Complete Your Course on Time: Your eligibility will depend on completing your course within the normal timeframe.

• Apply for Graduate Visa After Graduation: Once you complete your studies, you can apply for the Graduate Visa, even if this happens after January 2024, as long as you were enrolled and started your studies before the new policy takes effect.

Conclusion:

If you join the September 2023 intake for your master's program in the UK, you will still be eligible for the 2-year post-study work visa (Graduate Visa), even if the UK removes it for students starting after January 2024. Make sure to complete your program on time and apply for the visa after graduation to take advantage of this opportunity.