UK Immigration
Science and Engineering Graduates Scheme (SEGS)
Please note that this has been replaced with the International Graduates Scheme (IGS) as of 1 May 2007.The information below is provided for historical purposes.
The Science and Engineering Graduates Scheme (SEGS) was launched on Monday 25 October. The scheme allows non-EEA nationals who have graduated from UK higher or further education establishments in certain physical sciences, mathematics and engineering subjects with a 2.2 or higher pass mark to remain in the UK for 12 months after their studies in order to pursue a career without needing to gain an Employer Sponsored Work Permit.
If you are in the UK now, you must have leave to remain on your passport to apply and if you are outside the UK you will need to seek entry clearance.
Why set up a scheme for science and engineering graduates?
- The UK is suffering from a shortage of physical science, engineering and mathematics students at university and skilled workers in the labour market.
- The shortage could do serious damage to the UK's future growth.
There is a real demand in sectors such as research and development and financial services for maths, science and engineering specialists.
It is hoped that this scheme will encourage overseas students to study in the UK and following graduation be a real asset in the work place.
How do I qualify under the scheme?
To be granted leave under the scheme, applicants must:- have successfully completed, with second class honours (2.2) or higher, a recognised science or engineering degree course, Masters course or Ph.D (see 'How do I know if my course is eligible?') at a UK institution of Higher or Further Education.
- intend to work during the period of leave granted under the scheme
- be able to maintain and accommodate themselves and any dependants without recourse to public funds; intend to leave the UK at the end of their stay (unless granted leave as a work permit holder, highly skilled migrant, business person or innovator)
How do I know if my course is eligible?
There is an official list of eligible Science and Engineering courses. The list focuses on the subjects and skills that are identified as being in short supply. Only those who have studied approved courses are eligible to apply for leave under the scheme.What if my studies have been sponsored (for example by a government or international scholarship agency?
Eligible Science and Engineering courses.Applicants who have been sponsored by a government or international scholarship agency will need to obtain written permission from their sponsor before applying for SEGS.
Can I switch into the scheme without leaving the UK?
Applicants may switch onto the scheme in-country if they have valid leave as a student. This includes leave as a student, a student nurse, to re-sit an examination, or to write up a thesis. Alternatively you can apply to return to the UK from abroad under the scheme no later than one year after you complete your course. Entry clearance is mandatory for those returning to the UK under the scheme.What if I have my results, but have not graduated yet?
Applicants should provide their degree certificate to show that they have successfully completed their course. However applicants who have their result confirmed, but are awaiting graduation, may instead provide a letter from their personal tutor confirming that they have completed the course at the required level, providing the JACS code for the course.What type of work can I do?
There are no restrictions on the type of paid work you can do as a SEGS participant.How long can I stay in the UK under the scheme?
You can stay in the United Kingdom for one year as a SEGS participant. We will count any time you spend outside the United Kingdom during that period as part of the year.Can I switch into other employment categories?
SEGS participants will be eligible to switch in-country into employment and self-employment categories (work permit employment, Highly Skilled Migrant Programme, business persons or Innovators), providing they meet the requirements of the category.Can my dependants also stay in the UK?
Spouses, unmarried partners and children of students will be eligible to switch in line with the SEGS applicant. If they are applying from abroad, entry clearance is mandatory.This is a relatively new scheme and very useful in many cases.
It does not, however, contribute to Permanent Residence and you need to ask yourself what your ultimate goal is in the UK.
Whatever your goal is, we can assist by providing the advice that you need to make the correct decision for your future in the UK.
