The UK Graduate Route Visa lets international students stay in the UK after completing an eligible degree. It is one of the most useful post-study options because you do not need a job offer or employer sponsorship.
Quick Answer: IELTS is not normally required, the fee is £937, and processing usually takes up to 8 weeks. Bachelor’s and master’s graduates get 2 years if they apply on or before 31 December 2026. From 1 January 2027, the duration becomes 18 months. PhD graduates get 3 years. [web:1][web:11][web:12]
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Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you are in the UK, hold a valid Student visa, and your university has informed the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course. You must apply from inside the UK. [web:1][web:12]
- You must be physically in the UK.
- You must hold a valid Student visa or old Tier 4 visa.
- Your course must be eligible.
- Your university must confirm completion.
Eligible Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Master’s degree.
- PhD / Doctoral degree.
- PGCE.
- PGDE.
- Some law conversion and professional qualifications.
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Visa Duration
The visa length depends on when you apply and the level of your qualification. The Graduate visa lasts for 2 years if you apply on or before 31 December 2026, 18 months if you apply on or after 1 January 2027, and 3 years for PhD or other doctoral qualifications. [web:1][web:12]
| Qualification |
Apply by 31 Dec 2026 |
Apply from 1 Jan 2027 |
| Bachelor’s / Master’s |
2 years |
18 months |
| PhD / Doctoral |
3 years |
3 years |
| PGCE / PGDE |
2 years |
18 months |
Important: Your visa starts from the day your application is approved, not from the day you submit it.
Fees in 2026
The main costs are the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge. The application fee is £937 per applicant, and the IHS depends on the visa length. [web:12][web:14]
- Application fee: £937.
- Health surcharge: £1,035 per year.
- 2-year visa total: about £3,007.
- 3-year visa total: about £4,042.
Budget Tip: Many students only remember the £937 fee and forget the health surcharge, which is much higher.
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Processing Time
The usual processing time is up to 8 weeks after you apply online, prove your identity, and submit the required details. [web:1][web:11]
- You can stay in the UK while waiting for a decision.
- Delays can happen if more checks are needed.
- Priority services may be available in some cases.
Do You Need IELTS?
No, the Graduate Route Visa does not normally require a new IELTS test. You already proved your English ability when you applied for your Student visa. [web:3][web:1]
When IELTS May Still Matter
- If you switch to another visa category later.
- If a professional body asks for it.
- If you apply for further study and the university requires it.
What You Can Do
- Work in most jobs.
- Look for work.
- Be self-employed.
- Do voluntary work.
- Travel in and out of the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply before my graduation ceremony?
Yes. You do not need to wait for the ceremony if your university has already confirmed your completion to the Home Office. [web:12]
Can I switch to Skilled Worker later?
Yes. You can switch if you meet the Skilled Worker visa requirements and have a sponsoring employer. [web:1]
Can I extend the Graduate visa?
No. The Graduate visa cannot be extended. You must switch to another visa or leave the UK when it expires. [web:1]
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