- Possible?
- Yes — from inside the UK
- Need
- Licensed-sponsor job, skill + salary met
- New graduates
- May get 'new entrant' salary rates
- Source
- Confirm thresholds on GOV.UK
Key takeaways
- You can switch from Student or Graduate Route to Skilled Worker inside the UK.
- You need a job offer from a licensed sponsor meeting the skill and salary rules.
- New graduates may qualify for lower 'new entrant' salary rates.
- Skilled Worker can count towards settlement — confirm thresholds on GOV.UK.
How the switch works
Once you have completed your studies (and often while on the Graduate Route), you can switch into the Skilled Worker visa without leaving the UK if you have a job offer from an employer that holds a Home Office sponsor licence, and the role meets the required skill level and salary threshold. The employer assigns you a Certificate of Sponsorship, and you apply online. This is the most common route from study into a long-term UK career.
Thresholds and timing
Salary thresholds are central and change frequently; recent graduates and those in certain occupations may qualify for reduced 'new entrant' rates, which can make early-career roles viable. Plan to secure a sponsored role before your Graduate Route expires, as that maximises your options. Because the thresholds and eligible occupations change, confirm the current rules on GOV.UK. Study UK Now helps you target sponsor-licensed employers and time the switch.
How Study UK Now helps with this
Get expert, end-to-end help — from university matching to your visa.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes — you can switch into the Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK if you have a job offer from a Home Office-licensed sponsor that meets the skill and salary requirements. New graduates may qualify for lower 'new entrant' salary rates. Thresholds change frequently, so confirm the current rules on GOV.UK.
Do I need a job offer to switch to a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes — unlike the Graduate Route, the Skilled Worker visa requires a job offer from a licensed sponsor before you can apply, with the role meeting the skill level and salary threshold. Many students use the Graduate Route first to find such a role. Confirm current requirements on GOV.UK.
Sources — verified June 2026
Visa, fee and policy details change. Always confirm the latest on the official source before you rely on it.