So, finally, you have completed your graduation from a UK university, and you are now pondering what to do next. At this point, the economic scenario in the UK raises the question of how many career opportunities in the UK for Indian graduates and what the likelihood is of finding a job. Additionally, in this year of 2024, what are the trending positions and job prospects?

The primary aim for most Indian students studying in the UK is to settle and build their future here. For many, the tuition fees in the UK represent a significant portion of their parents’ hard-earned income back in India. Therefore, it becomes crucial to consider what happens after the completion of education.

The main point is that for those who have a degree from a country like the UK, which is at the top in terms of world-class education, a UK degree is no less than a crown made of gold. This piece is meant to help you find answers to the problems that students have.  If you have completed your graduation or are currently studying and looking for a part-time job, then you should definitely read this article carefully. In this article, we will discuss the trending jobs in the UK and provide information about their average salaries.

The UK: A Magnet for Indian Talent

Hold onto your hats, folks – the number of international students in the UK is skyrocketing, and leading the pack? Yes, you guessed it – Indian graduates! In 2023 alone, a whopping 1,42,848 sponsored study visas were granted to Indian students, and that number is expected to jump by a cool 46% in 2024! Why? Well, the UK welcomes you with open arms, and making your UK entry smooth is easier than you think!

Exploring Career Opportunities in the UK for Indian Graduates: A Statistical Overview

The career prospects for Indian students in the UK have been promising, especially with the introduction of the graduate route in July 2021. In 2023, it was estimated that there were 36.4 million graduates in the UK. The employment rate for graduates was 87.3% in 2022, and the median nominal salary for graduates was £38,500.

Despite a decrease in job vacancies since May 2022, there were still approximately 1 million job opportunities in the UK for Indian students as of July 2023.

The UK Home Office reported that 1,42,848 sponsored study visas were granted to Indian students in 2023, and this number is expected to increase by 46% in 2024. With this positive data, we also want to suggest that a degree isn’t everything when it comes to getting a job; success often relies on a person’s abilities, skills, and experience. So, if you’re studying now, pay attention to your education. And if possible, learn a skill that can be useful in your job, You can Start with Communication Skills.

Balancing Books and Bank Accounts: Part-Time Job Options in the UK

Juggling studies and finances can be a tightrope walk for any student, but part-time jobs in the UK can be your safety net and springboard! Earning while you learn isn’t just about financial independence – it’s also an investment in your future. Here’s how:

• Gaining Valuable Work Experience: Before diving into the full-time job market, part-time gigs offer a chance to test the waters, build your resume, and refine your skills. It’s easier to snag that high-paying position after proving your mettle on smaller projects.
• Networking Your Way Up: The world of work isn’t just about what you know, but who you know. Part-time jobs connect you with colleagues, mentors, and potential employers, expanding your professional network beyond the classroom.
• Developing Diverse Skills: From communication and teamwork to time management and problem-solving, part-time work hones essential skills valuable across any career path. Whether you’re assisting a library patron or coordinating an event, you’re constantly learning and growing.

Finding Your Perfect Part-Time Fit:

The UK offers a diverse range of part-time opportunities for Indian students, categorized into three main options:

On-Campus: Take advantage of your familiar surroundings! Campus jobs like library assistant, bookseller, gym trainer, or student ambassador provide convenient work schedules and opportunities to connect with your fellow students.

Off-Campus: Venture beyond the university gates! Explore options like retail associate, customer service representative, hospitality staff, or freelance work. These roles offer more flexibility in hours and allow you to discover new industries and broaden your horizons.

Volunteering: Give back to the community while gaining valuable experience. involvement in volunteering at sports events, beach clean-ups, or arts festivals not only lets you make a positive impact but also gives you the chance to connect with people who share similar interests. Additionally, it helps boost your resume by showcasing your commitment to social responsibility.

Remember: The UK government welcomes international students to work part-time under specific visa regulations. So, research your options, choose the perfect fit, and watch your skills and bank account flourish alongside your academic journey!

Charting Your High-Paying Course:

While choosing your course, it’s crucial to consider future career prospects. Setting your priorities according to salary and social status can be helpful. Here’s a glimpse into some high-paid jobs in the UK for Indian students, along with their average annual salaries:

Job	Average Annual Salary (GBP)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Management Trainee	£22,962	2,340,869 INR
Digital Marketing Specialist	£31,165	3,182,906 INR
Business Analyst	£44,908	4,597,702 INR
Data Scientist	£50,283	5,096,591 INR
Software Developer	£40,594 – £70,400	4,116,219 INR – 7,159,952 INR
Full Stack Developer	£56,402	5,749,927 INR
Product Manager	£55,347 – £67,582	5,645,490 INR – 6,874,783 INR
Artificial Intelligence Engineer	£66,443	6,756,050 INR
Blockchain Developer	£48,000 – £93,000	4,891,200 INR – 9,504,320 INR
Cloud Architect	£87,663 – £107,610	8,970,070 INR – 10,978,449 INR

Bridging the UK’s Skill Gap:

The UK economy harbours a secret: a plethora of exciting job opportunities await skilled professionals like you. These opportunities, listed on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), are open invitations for you to make your mark. Whether it’s contributing to public health in Healthcare, constructing infrastructures in Engineering, or shaping the future with IT, your expertise is in high demand. So, if you possess the skills that the UK needs, consider it a red carpet rolled out exclusively for you!

Top Sectors with Endless Possibilities:

The UK’s thriving sectors present a buffet of choices for ambitious graduates. Immerse yourself in the world of IT, where innovation rules. Sharpen your financial acumen in Accounting, Finance, or Banking. Construct architectural wonders in Engineering, mould young minds in Education, or sway the market in Marketing. Healthcare, Recruitment, and even Human Resources offer exciting and fulfilling career paths. Regardless of your talent, there’s a sector in the UK ready to welcome you with open arms.

Landing Your UK Dream Job: A Guide for Indian Students

Congratulations on securing your place in a UK university! Now, let’s navigate the dynamic UK job market and help you land your dream job.

Leveraging University Resources:

• Career Services: Your first stop should be your university’s career services office. They provide dedicated support, from tailoring resumes and cover letters to connecting you with job openings specifically targeted at international students.
• Networking Events: Attend career fairs, workshops, and alumni events to build professional connections and learn about potential opportunities. Remember, networking isn’t just about collecting business cards; it’s about building genuine relationships.

Searching Beyond Campus:

• Online Job Boards: Explore platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor, filtering your search by location, industry, and keywords relevant to your interests and skills.
• Company Websites: Research your target companies directly and check their career pages for open positions. Applying directly often allows you to stand out from the crowd.
• Professional Networking Sites: Consider platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your chosen field and stay updated on industry trends.

Boosting Your Employability:

• Tailored Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job, highlighting relevant skills and experiences gained through internships, volunteering, or academic projects.
• Language Proficiency: Ensure your English language skills are polished, as strong communication is crucial in any workplace.
• Cultural Awareness: Research UK workplace culture and etiquette to make a positive first impression during interviews.

Eligibility and Visa Requirements:

Working in the UK while studying requires a valid student visa that allows you to work part-time. Additional factors companies may consider include:

• Language Proficiency: Most jobs require a good level of English communication.
• Job-Specific Skills: Depending on the role, companies might ask for specific skills or qualifications.
• Visa Restrictions: Some visas have limitations on the type of work you can do, so check yours carefully.

For detailed information on visa requirements and employment regulations, consult the official UK government website or seek guidance from your university’s international student office.

Latest Statistics:

• Nearly 118,000 Indian students received a Student visa in the year ending June 2022 – an 89% increase from the previous year.
• Indian students accounted for 46% of all skilled work visas granted globally.
• In 2022, 770,000 Indian students went to study abroad, and that number is growing by about 10% every year.
• Out of those, almost 140,000 went to the UK.

With proactive planning, leveraging campus resources, and presenting your skills effectively, you can confidently navigate the UK job market and land that dream job, setting your professional journey on a fantastic path!

Visa Considerations for Your UK Job Hunt

While landing your dream job in the UK is thrilling, don’t forget about the crucial visa step! Securing the right visa beforehand can significantly smooth your transition and pave the way for your professional journey. Here’s a quick overview of some popular visa options for Indian graduates:

Head Start with a Work Permit:

Having an existing work permit that allows you to work in the UK can be a valuable asset. It not only strengthens your application but also demonstrates your established connection to the UK job market, potentially increasing your chances of landing your desired position.

Visa Options for Your Post-Offer Journey:

Once you’ve secured a job offer, explore the following visa categories to find the best fit for your situation:

Tier 2 General Visa: This visa grants long-term residence and employment in the UK. However, the job you’re applying for must be on the UK’s Tier 2 Shortage Occupation List (SOL). This list highlights professions facing skill shortages, so check if your desired field qualifies before applying.

UK Global Talent Visa: Are you a rising star in your field with exceptional talent or qualifications? This fast-track visa is designed for individuals like academics, researchers, and artists who can significantly contribute to their respective fields in the UK.

Remember: Numerous other visa options might be suitable depending on your specific circumstances and career goals. These include the Graduate Route visa for recent graduates seeking post-study work experience and the Start-up visa for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Pro Tip: Start your visa application process early! Research the specific requirements for your chosen visa category and gather all necessary documents well in advance to avoid delays.

Remember, navigating the visa process doesn’t have to be daunting. With careful planning and research, you can ensure a smooth transition to your UK job and start carving your path to success.

Documents for a Tier 2 General Visa

A visa application involves a variety of documents, which are reviewed before approval. The following paperwork is necessary to obtain a Skilled Worker visa (formerly known as Tier 2 General Visa):

• Job offer in a skilled position
• Certificate of Sponsorship provided by the employer that is hiring you
• Proof of your knowledge of English
• A valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality
• Your job title and annual salary
• Your job’s occupation code
• The name of your employer and their sponsor licence number

Depending on your circumstances, you might be asked to provide:

• Evidence that you have enough personal savings to support yourself in the UK, for example, bank statements
• Proof of your relationship with your partner or children if they’re applying with you
• Your tuberculosis test results if you’re from a listed country
• A criminal record certificate – if you’re working in certain jobs

You can expect a response from the visa authorities within three weeks if you’re outside the UK, and within eight weeks if you’re inside the UK.

Visa Extension for Indian Students

You may be able to extend your Student visa to stay longer and continue your course or study a new course3. To extend your visa you must:

• Be in the UK on a Student visa or a Tier 4 (General) student visa
• Have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor
• Show that your studies are at a higher academic level than your current course

You can also switch to a Graduate visa to stay in the UK for at least 2 years after successfully completing your course.

How to apply for Permanent Residency in the UK?

To get a permanent residency in the UK, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must have legally resided in the UK for a certain amount of time. Generally, you must have lived and worked in the UK for at least five years.
• You must have a verified employment offer from a licensed UK employer who will serve as your sponsor.
• You must possess a Sponsorship Certificate provided by your employer.
• You must pass the point-based evaluation.

Once you fulfill these conditions, you can submit an online application for permanent residency through the official website. Before the start of your employment, you have three months to apply for permanent residency. You must present identifying documentation together with your supporting records.

We hope you find the information provided satisfactory. If you’re thinking about studying in the UK or are interested in discovering which university could be a good fit for you, you can explore this blog Best Universities for Indian students.