How long can I work in the UK after completing a one-year master's in accounting and finance?
Yes, your one year UK master's in accounting and finance qualifies for the Graduate Route visa, giving you 2 years to work in the UK if you apply on or before 31 December 2026. Applications from 1 January 2027 onward get 18 months instead.
Your one year master's in accounting and finance makes you eligible for the UK Graduate Route visa, which gives you 2 years of full time work rights after graduation if you apply on or before 31 December 2026. This drops to 18 months for applications made from 1 January 2027 onward.
Graduate Route Duration for Your Master's
| When You Apply | Work Duration After Master's |
|---|---|
| On or before 31 December 2026 | 2 years |
| On or after 1 January 2027 | 18 months |
What You Can Do During the Graduate Route
- Work in accounting or finance roles: full time, without needing employer sponsorship.
- Look for work or be self employed: while your Graduate Route permission runs.
- Switch to Skilled Worker: if you secure a qualifying sponsored role before your Graduate Route ends.
My Advice
Apply for the Graduate Route as soon as your university confirms your course completion to the Home Office, rather than waiting. If your one year program finishes in mid to late 2026, applying promptly protects your full 2 year window instead of risking a slower application that slips past the December cutoff.
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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