Planning to graduate in a country like the UK? When you take IELTS and apply to study abroad, you can find opportunities to enable your future career growth. Consider the tips below to help you transition from student to professional in the UK.
Part time work
You can earn extra money during university holidays while you study in the UK, but be aware of the restrictions placed on international students. You cannot set up your own business or work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer. This means most international students find casual part time work at shops, restaurants or the university where they study. Learn more here.
While it’s exciting to be able to earn an income as a student, be sure to prioritise your studies or you may miss out on the opportunity to graduate and find skilled work abroad.
Research taxes
It is important to do your research about whether you should be paying taxes based on your income in the UK. There may be double-taxation agreements that mean you don’t need to pay UK tax – read more on the gov.uk website. If your home country does not have a double-taxation agreement with the UK, you may be subject to income tax – read more here.
Investigate internships
An internship is a great way to gain work experience before you graduate and often companies will use your internship period to assess whether you are the right fit for a permanent role.
With a student visa, you can work for up to 20 hours per week during term time and you can work full time during the holidays. Confirm with the university you plan to apply to about whether they have any additional limitations on working hours. Read more at the UK Council for International Student Affairs.
Taking IELTS not only makes it possible for you to apply to study in the UK, it is also the ultimate confidence booster! Preparing for IELTS will help you improve your skills in English Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
Work placements while you study
Depending on the course you choose, you may be offered a work placement opportunity as an integrated part of your master’s degree. According to Study UK, you can expect to be placed with a company for a period of six to twelve months, before completing your final year of study.
Reach out to your university about work placement opportunities while you study. IELTS is accepted by all universities in the UK, including those that offer work placements to help you get a head start in your career.
The Graduate Visa
After you graduate, you may want to remain in the UK to find work experience before returning home. The Graduate visa enables international students to stay in the UK for two years or 18 months, depending on when you apply. If you graduate with a PhD, your Graduate visa is valid for three years. Read more about the Graduate visa here.
Are you ready to take your IELTS test and gain experience abroad? Set yourself up for success with IELTS.