Working outside the UK : Returning to your home country

For many students, the goal of a UK education is to increase their chances of finding employment in their home country upon graduation. To do this successfully, you will need to demonstrate to employers how this unique experience has prepared you for your chosen career. You will need to:

• prepare examples to demonstrate the skills that employers in your country require;
• research the employment market using a variety of sources (see applying for non-UK jobs);
• create application documents such as a CV and covering letter.

Living in the UK for a period of time will have given you a different perspective on life and possibly work if you have managed to gain some experience. This experience may be different from the cultural customs in the workplace of your home country and you will need to be aware of this as it may impact on your ability to impress a prospective employer. Refreshing your knowledge on the types of position, salary levels and etiquette when dealing with recruitment managers in your home country will ensure that your overseas experience is viewed positively.

Before leaving the UK

The experience you have had in the UK will benefit your career and you need to ensure that you continue to make the most of this once you leave. Creating networks is one of the most effective ways of keeping up to date with people and opportunities. You can do this by joining:

• the alumni association at your university;
• The British Council  alumni association for your country, if available;
• relevant professional associations for your career area.

Keep in touch with your careers centre for further support and to inform them of your progress. Many centres work actively with alumni to support current students.

For advice on practical arrangements before leaving the UK to return home, see UKCISA: UK Council for International Student Affairs - Preparing to return home .

Relocating outside the UK

You are responsible for making relocation arrangements for yourself such as immigration, flights, shipping your belongings, insurance and finance arrangements. You should consult the employer and the embassy of the country you are relocating to when making arrangements.