International Futures

Two girls reading a booklet

Careers Support Programme for International Students

This programme is designed to help students build confidence, prepare for their future career and support navigating the UK graduate job market.

Through a series of tailored workshops, you will:

  • Gain insight into the UK graduate job market and employer expectations
  • Learn how to write positive CVs and cover letters that highlight your achievements
  • Develop interview skills to present yourself with confidence
  • Participate in collaborative group careers chats for open discussion and shared learning

For more information please see ABERCareers.

International career chats

As well as workshops the programme offers International Career Chats to explore your career plans. General Careers Chats are also available on weekdays, giving you the opportunity to discuss your plans. You can book these and workshops via our portal ABERCareers.

Whether you are planning postgraduate study, exploring different career paths, or searching for work experience, we are here to help students from every discipline move forward with confidence.

In addition to the workshops delivered through the International Futures programme the Careers and Employability Service offers a range of central workshops.

For more information, please see ABERcareers Events.

Useful tips and advice

As an international student, here are some useful tips and advice to support your initial steps into the UK graduate jobs market:

  • To work in the UK, you’ll need a National Insurance Number - How to obtain a National Insurance Number
  • Application essentials: We will support you with CVs, applications, and interview techniques, so you can highlight your skills with confidence. Employers demand a strong command of written English; please note that we cannot submit applications or make direct corrections to grammar and spelling. However, we can offer feedback.

Planning to stay in the UK after graduation?

Know your visa options - especially the Graduate Visa and Skilled Worker Visa. For visa and work entitlement advice, consult UKCISA and the University’s Visa Support and Advice Service.

Finding a job or placement takes time - often longer than students expect. Many placements and graduate schemes are advertised up to a year in advance. Even before opportunities open, start researching companies, identifying potential employers and improving your CV.

Explore online resources such as Target Jobs and Prospects to find placements, graduate jobs and country-specific information.

Networking

Two thirds of graduate vacancies are not advertised so it is vital to approach employers speculatively. Networking can open doors you did not know existed. Share the type of work you are looking for with family, friends, and contacts - they may offer advice, introduce you to opportunities, or point you towards organisations you have not considered.

LinkedIn is an excellent tool for networking and to research companies/organisations. Maintaining a professional profile on LinkedIn allows you to present your skills and expertise to prospective employers.

You can visit the British Council which operates job clubs in many countries. In addition, Global Careers Tribe has jobs in multiple countries, ideal for graduates returning home after studying in the UK.