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Apr 25, 2023 08:37 AM
Introduction
For numerous international students, obtaining a Master's degree in the UK is a source of great pride. However, we recognize that it can impose a substantial financial burden. Consequently, it is crucial for you to actively seek employment during and after your studies. Fortunately, there is an abundance of job prospects, and the UK government has extended the post-study work visa duration from four months to two years. This signifies that upon completing your Master's program at a recognized higher education institution in the UK, you will have the opportunity to remain in the country for up to two years to pursue job opportunities.
The UK is undoubtedly one of the top economies in the world. Getting hired for a job ultimately depends on your skillsets, your experience and research abilities. As an entry-level graduate in UK your salary may fall anywhere between £21,000 – £25,000.
Source : Times Higher education
Finding job opportunities
Securing employment relies on a combination of your skills, experience, and research capabilities. To explore job opportunities in the UK, numerous websites can be of assistance. Here are some of the leading platforms worth considering:
- Expatica jobs
- EURES
- Adecco
- Adzuna
- Careerbuilder
- Everyjobsite
- Fish4
- Gumtree
- Indeed
- Jobsite
- Monster
- Reed
- Totaljobs
- Trovit
Apart from looking for job opportunities online, you can also attend career fairs that are organised by your university, and also the ones that are put together by various companies.
It is also highly beneficial to be in touch with the career guidance cell of your university, which can guide you in the right direction. Additionally, the alumni network of your university can come in handy in getting information about the job vacancies in various companies.
1. While studying in the UK:
As an international student, you have to make sure that your visa permits you to work while you study. Most international students with a Tier 4 student visa enrolled in a full-time program can work for 20 hours per week. You can work for extended hours during vacations. Make sure you find a balance between your studies and part-time job so that you do not get burned out.
Work placement and internships
If you are an international student with a tier 4 visa, you can take up a work placement or an internship if it fulfils the following criteria
- It is a part of your full-time Master's program and is required for your assessment.
- You remain enrolled at your university for the entire time.
- The duration is not more than half of your Master's program duration.
If all the above conditions are satisfied, you can work full-time when you take up a work placement or an internship. You can use this time to prove your mettle and build a strong professional nexus. Your superlative performance in the internship can translate into a permanent job after you complete your Master’s course.
2. After completion of the master's program:
Once you have completed your Master’s you can go all out and embark on a full-fledged job search. However, there are a few things you need to take care of before you start working.
- Passport or Identity Card
- National Insurance
- Residence permit
- Birth or Adoption certificate
- Marriage or Civil Partnership certificate (if applicable)
- Driving License
NOTE:
It is possible for you to work in the UK without a NIN for a short period of time. However you will have to prove to your employer that your National Insurance Number (NIN) is underway. During that time period, you can work using your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
High Demand Jobs for International Students in the UK
If you are looking for a graduate job you have to stand out in the crowd to make yourself visible. Use your time in the country to make more contacts and learn new skills. Do not just gain a degree, but also get to know more people and try getting in touch with various firms and organisations. Attending job fairs and applying for off-campus internships and contacting various companies can be of huge help while finding a job. There are some employers who accept applications from students before they complete their course; you can jump at this opportunity and be the early bird that catches the worm.
Let us take a look at some of the most sought after disciplines in the UK :
Scientists
Branches : Biochemistry, Physics
Estimated annual salary : £40,000
Engineers
Branches: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical
Estimated annual salary: £34,111
IT
Branches: Analysts, Systems Designers, Programmers, Web Designers, Software Developers
Estimated annual salary: £40,080.
Medicine
Branches: Practitioners, Psychologists, Radiographers, Nurses, Vets, occupational Therapists
Estimated annual salary: £32,500
Education
Branches: Secondary school teachers
Estimated annual salary: £32,000
Conclusion
As discussed in this blog, there are plenty of job opportunities during and after your studies in the UK. It is important to do your due diligence and find a job that suits your profile and interests. Make sure to get the necessary documents like your National Insurance Number ready before you seek employment. Screen through the top websites listed above thoroughly, and you are sure to find a job that will be the first stepping stone to your successful career.
FAQs - Job Opportunities for International Students in the UK after Master's
1. Can international students work part-time while studying in the UK?
Yes, most international students with a Tier 4 student visa enrolled in a full-time program can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. During vacations, you can work for extended hours. It's important to balance your studies and part-time job effectively.
2. What are the criteria for international students to take up work placements or internships?
International students with a Tier 4 visa can take up work placements or internships if the following criteria are met:
- It is a part of your full-time Master's program and is required for your assessment.
- You remain enrolled at your university for the entire time.
- The duration is not more than half of your Master's program duration.
3. Can international students work full-time after completing their Master's program in the UK?
Yes, after completing your Master's program, you can search for full-time job opportunities in the UK. However, make sure you have the necessary documents in order, such as passport or identity card, national insurance, residence permit, and other relevant certificates.
4. What documents do international students need to work in the UK after their Master's program?
The documents you may need to work in the UK after completing your Master's program include:
- Passport or Identity Card
- National Insurance
- Residence permit
- Birth or Adoption certificate
- Marriage or Civil Partnership certificate (if applicable)
- Driving License
5. How can international students find job opportunities in the UK?
There are several ways to find job opportunities in the UK, including:
- Exploring job websites like Expatica jobs, EURES, Indeed, Monster, etc.
- Attending career fairs organized by your university or companies.
- Seeking guidance from your university's career guidance cell.
- Connecting with the alumni network of your university.
- Applying for off-campus internships and contacting various companies directly.
6. Are there any high-demand job sectors for international students in the UK?
Yes, some high-demand job sectors in the UK include:
- Scientists (Biochemistry, Physics)
- Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
- IT Professionals (Analysts, Systems Designers, Programmers, Web Designers, Software Developers)
- Medical Professionals (Practitioners, Psychologists, Radiographers, Nurses, Vets, Occupational Therapists)
- Education Professionals (Secondary school teachers)
7. What are the estimated annual salaries for different job sectors in the UK?
Estimated annual salaries can vary based on the job sector. Here are a few examples:
- Scientists: £40,000
- Engineers: £34,111
- IT Professionals: £40,080
- Medical Professionals: £32,500
- Education Professionals (Secondary school teachers): £32,000
8. Should international students focus on building contacts and gaining new skills while in the UK?
Yes, it is highly beneficial for international students to build contacts, gain new skills, and network with various firms and organizations in the UK. Attending job fairs, applying for off-campus internships, and contacting companies can increase your chances of finding a job.
9. Can international students apply for jobs before completing their Master's program?
Yes, some employers in the UK accept applications from students before they complete their course. It is recommended to take advantage of such opportunities and apply early to increase your chances of securing a job.
10. What is the significance of having a National Insurance Number (NIN) for working in the UK?
While it is possible to work in the UK without a National Insurance Number (NIN) for a short period, having a NIN is important for long-term employment. Employers often require a NIN for tax and national insurance contributions. You can work using your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) during the period when your NIN is being processed.
