A common goal among Indian youngsters is to study STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) abroad and pursue career prospects in that field. Regarding the United Kingdom, its economy ranks fifth, globally. Students are drawn to pursue their desired occupations in STEM fields here since the area is home to educational institutions with high QS rankings, excellent living standards, and reasonably priced healthcare for its citizens.
In order to get a work visa after completing your studies, one can apply for a Graduate visa under which a student can continue to live in the UK and work and explore other potential opportunities for a duration of up to two years, and three years for a PhD graduate. Though students cannot renew their visa after the expiry of their Graduation visa, they can surely switch to other visa options like a Skilled Worker visa, once they find a suitable job. Subsequently, a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the company is required whether an individual wants to pursue the Skilled Worker Visa path or the Sponsored Visa route in general.
What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)?
A CoS is a reference number that a prospective sponsor assigns to an application for a sponsored work visa. Instead of being a tangible document, it is an electronic record. Applications for visas using the sponsored visa route must include the CoS as a necessary prerequisite.
Criteria for getting a work visa in the UK
According to the UK's official website, a student must meet certain requirements and present certain documents in order to be eligible for a skilled worker visa. These requirements include having a job from a licensed employer that pays at least £25,600, having a job that requires the necessary skill level (A level or equivalent), and being able to speak English to the required standard such as IELTS. To obtain the necessary number of points, all applicants will be able to trade attributes, such as their qualifications, against a reduced income. The learner is urged to frequently visit the official website of the UK government in order to gain a clearer understanding.
Job Opportunities in the UK
UK offers a plethora of job opportunities for STEM students. In London, there are numerous tech startups that are always willing to hire competent software engineers, data scientists, and artificial intelligence experts. While, in Birmingham, graduates in aerospace engineering can find exciting and challenging roles for themselves. On the other hand, Cambridge is a hub for biomedical research. The institution here has conducted several groundbreaking research projects, which makes it an excellent option for a graduate studying biomedical research. Fintech, the clean energy industry, and artificial intelligence are other important industries with a wealth of employment.
About Graduate Visa
Graduate visa, which has been reintroduced recently, proved to be a boon for many International students. There is a wide range of options available to pursue post-study in the UK. Students can join MNCs there, and work for industries like healthcare, technology, engineering, aerospace, and biomedical among others. Others can also choose to be an entrepreneur and open their own ventures. As the UK is a fertile ground for innovation and technology entrepreneurship will surely reap fruits to students. There are plenty of options for research and teaching roles in the UK's universities and research institutions for individuals interested in a career in academia. For those aiming to advance their careers in academia, the Graduate Route allows flexibility.
In conclusion, students after completing their studies in the STEM field can apply for a Graduate visa route or skilled worker visa route and build their careers in various fields. There are plenty of options available for STEM graduates in the UK ranging from academia to regular jobs to becoming an entrepreneur. Students are advised to regularly check the visa situation and any further changes that have been made in visa policies in order to make an informed decision.
The article is authored by Mr. Yatharth Gulati, Co-Founder, Rostrum Education
