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PSW CLOSURE DATE CONFIRMED: The UKBA have now confirmed this visa route will close from 5 April 2012. This is the final date PSW applications can be submitted to UKBA.
IMPORTANT: Please note that this information is a summary of the PSW scheme and is designed to provide general information. Graduates applying for PSW are responsible for making sure they read the up-to-date, full guidance note titled ‘Tier 1 (Post-Study Work) of the Points Based System-Policy Guidance’ before making an application. This is available from the UK Border Agency website.
The Tier 1 Post Study Work (PSW) scheme was introduced in June 2008, the main aim being to retain the most able international graduates who have studied in the UK.
The PSW visa allows successful graduates to seek work without needing a sponsor. Graduates applying for PSW will get a single grant of leave for 2 years. After this leave expires no further extensions under PSW will be granted.
PSW is based on a points based system. In order to qualify applicants must score:
To help applicants identify if they meet the requirements for this visa, they can complete the Points Based Calculator introduced by the UK Border Agency.
However, please remember the calculator only represents possible points you can gain and does not guarantee you will be successful when applying for the scheme as this is dependant on the documentary proof you provide when the real application is made.
Yes, applications can be made overseas in home countries. The UK Border Agency's Visa Services will provide full details on such applications.
£594 for current postal applications made in the UK.
It is strongly recommended that you pay by Postal Order if applying by post in the UK, as this is the safest option.
The fees paid are non-refundable regardless of whether the PSW visa is granted or refused.
If you are applying in your home country the fee is £315
Applicants have 12 months to apply for PSW after completing their course. If you do not apply within these 12 months, you will have to study another qualifying course before you will be eligible again. The earliest you can apply is the date your official results are released. You can only be granted a PSW visa once in a whole life time.
Provisional grades are not acceptable by the Home Office as they are subject to change. If you do not know when your official results will be released you will need to check with your faculty office.
There are workshops available to help you with completing the form. Sessions are held every week. For workshops dates please check our International Calendar
Various points will be allocated in the following areas to make up the 75 point requirement:
NO OTHER POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMAS OR CERTIFICATES ARE ACCEPTABLE.
If graduates meet the points for the above requirements they will automatically gain 10 points for the English language requirement.
The requirement for gaining the 10 points for this section will depend on where you make your application:
Applying in the UK - You will need to show you have had £800 or more in your account consistently (every single day) for the last 90 days before you make your application.
Applying in your home country - You must show you have had £2800 or more in your account consistently (every single day) for the last 90 days before you make your application.
The dependants of students can apply to extend their stay as a dependant of a PSW applicant. Although dependants will need to be listed in the main applicant’s form dependants will have to submit a separate form called PBS Dependant as well. Both application forms should be sent off to the Home Office together, in one envelope. More information is available on our website separately in the Tier 1 PSW Dependant section.
