How long can I work in the UK for experience after completing my MBA under the post-study work visa rules?

After completing your MBA in the UK, you can work through the Graduate visa (the UK's post-study work route), and how long you get depends on exactly when you apply. Applying on or before 31 December 2026 secures the full 2-year duration, while applying from 1 January 2027 onward gives you 18 months instead.

Graduate Visa Duration by Application Date

How the Graduate Visa Works

• Eligibility: Your MBA must be an eligible UK course completed with an approved education provider that meets the required UK study period.
• Work rights: You can work in most jobs, switch employers freely, or be self-employed without needing a sponsor.
• Application timing: You must apply before your Student visa expires, and your university needs to confirm your course completion to the Home Office.
• No extension: The Graduate visa itself cannot be renewed, though you may switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you secure a sponsored role.

My Advice

If your MBA finishes in 2026, apply for the Graduate visa as soon as your university confirms completion, since even a short delay past 31 December 2026 costs you six months of work rights. Use the visa period to actively convert into a Skilled Worker sponsorship well before the two years (or 18 months) run out, since the Graduate visa itself has no renewal option.