Why Aren’t International Graduates Getting Jobs in the UK?

Many international students choose to study in the UK with the goal of launching their career here after graduation. However, recent statistics show that international graduates in the UK have a more difficult time finding jobs compared to their British counterparts. In this blog post, I’ll explore some of the key reasons behind this trend and provide tips for international graduates to improve their chances of securing employment in the UK.

Lack of Local Work Experience

One of the biggest obstacles for international graduates is a lack of work experience in the UK. While international students can gain valuable skills and knowledge through their studies, many employers prefer candidates with practical experience in a British work environment. Without local internships or work placements on their resumes, international graduates can seem like a bigger risk to hire.

Tips: Seek out internships, volunteer positions and other opportunities while studying to build your experience. Make connections with professionals in your industry.

Most UK Employers Unaware of Graduate Visa Scheme’s Benefits

A year after its launch, the UK’s Graduate Visa Scheme remains largely unknown and misunderstood among employers, negatively impacting international graduates.

The Graduate Visa allows recent international graduates 2 years to live and work freely in the UK post-study, aimed at increasing hiring receptiveness. However, research indicates over 90% of mid-sized and smaller companies are unaware of the Scheme. Moreover, most are unwilling to learn about it or sponsor graduates under the Skilled Worker Visa.

Officials have not sufficiently educated employers on the Graduate Visa and Skilled Worker Visa’s simple processes. This ignorance leads companies to miss out on incredible international talent eager to contribute their skills. It also causes worthy candidates to face rejection over misconceptions around immigration rules.

The Graduate Visa Scheme only reaches its potential when employers widely recognize its advantages. Officials must urgently raise awareness among hiring managers on how the Scheme and Skilled Worker Visa benefit businesses seeking to hire top global graduates. With more education, employers can tap into this talented pool, while international graduates access opportunities to fully utilize their abilities.

CVs are not fit for purpose

Many international graduates make the mistake of using the same CV format and conventions from their home country when applying for jobs in the UK. This results in CVs that are not tailored for a UK employer’s expectations and preferences. Key differences like format, length, photo inclusion and the focus on presenting hard skills over soft skills can make an international candidate’s CV seem oddly formatted or unfocused.

Tips: Research CV formatting standards in the UK. Highlight achievements using hard facts and data. Focus on showcasing skills and abilities rather than just listing past roles.

Crazy Competition

The number of graduates competing for open roles in popular industries and companies can be intense in the UK. When you factor in how many international graduates from Europe and beyond also vie for these coveted positions every year, it adds another layer of competition. Standing out from the sea of applicants can be incredibly difficult for international graduates lacking local connections.

Tips: Target less saturated industries and smaller companies. Attend industry events to network and make direct contacts. Seek out a mentor who works in your field. Customize your applications for each role.

By understanding and addressing these common barriers, international graduates can become stronger contenders for jobs in the UK. With perseverance and the right strategies, you can show UK employers the valuable skills and fresh perspectives you bring as an international candidate.