What is the duration of the course and post-study work permit in the UK?
A UK taught Master's typically runs one year, while a PhD takes three to four years. The Graduate Visa afterward lasts two years for Master's graduates who apply by December 31, 2026, dropping to eighteen months for applications from January 2027 onward, while PhD graduates keep three years.
Your UK Master's degree will typically take one year if it is a full-time taught program, and the Graduate Visa afterward currently lasts two years. That two-year window is changing soon, so your application date genuinely affects how long you get to work afterward. Here is exactly how the timeline breaks down.
Course and Visa Duration at a Glance
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate degree | 3 to 4 years depending on the UK nation |
| Taught Master's degree | Typically 1 year full-time |
| PhD or Doctoral degree | 3 to 4 years of full-time research |
| Graduate Visa (apply by Dec 31, 2026) | 2 years for Bachelor's and Master's graduates |
| Graduate Visa (apply from Jan 1, 2027) | 18 months for Bachelor's and Master's graduates |
| Graduate Visa for PhD graduates | 3 years, unaffected by the 2027 change |
What the Graduate Visa Actually Lets You Do
- Work at any skill level without needing employer sponsorship or a minimum salary threshold.
- Apply with no job offer required, unlike most long-term UK work visas.
- Use it as a one-off, non-extendable bridge into routes like the Skilled Worker Visa.
- Start your job search immediately after graduation, since the visa activates right after your course ends.
My Advice
If your course start date lets you apply for the Graduate Visa before December 31, 2026, prioritize that timeline to lock in the full two years instead of eighteen months. Start building your Skilled Worker Visa backup plan during your Graduate Visa period, since it remains a one-off award with no extension option.
More expert answers
Yes, the UK post-study work visa (Graduate Visa) duration for international students has been reduced for future applicants.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s graduates:
- Apply on or before 31 Dec 2026: 2 years
- Apply on or after 1 Jan 2027: 18 months
- PhD/Doctoral graduates: 3 years (no change)
This duration is subject to change by UK authorities. The Graduate Visa cannot be extended. To stay longer, you must switch to another visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa, before your Graduate Visa expires.
If you need guidance on next steps or switching visas, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
How long can you stay and work after a UK master's?
Post-study work rules are changing. Know what you will actually get.
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