Gaining Work Experience
Non-EU international students need to start building work experience as soon as they arrive in the UK because, in general, they can only gain work experience while they have a student visa.
Non-EU students are likely to be able to work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and any number of hours during vacations. Follow this link for more information regarding: working in the UK as a international student.
Work experience is particularly important for international students hoping to work in the UK after graduation because:
Working in the UK
Historically, graduate work permits are easier to obtain for:
- Employers who need large numbers of graduates.
- Employers for whom your specific language skills and knowledge are an asset.
- Employers who know you, eg through placement, vac schemes, work-shadowing and project opportunities.
What type of work experience do I include in job/work experience applications?
- Voluntary and unpaid work experience can be just as impressive to UK legal employers as paid work.
- Work experience gained outside the UK is also of interest to employers and can meet the criteria for QWE if signed off by a qualified English Solicitor.
- Any key work experiences should be included in your CV, regardless of where you gained them.
Your chances of finding work in the UK can be dramatically increased by finding and approaching employers who will see your specific language skills and cultural knowledge as an asset.
Additional resources
Here are some additional resources to aid in your job search: