Many international students who study in the UK would like to get work experience during their studies. UK employers value a degree and they also value evidence of work experience and skills gained from a wide range of life experiences.  They will expect to see how your experiences have developed your skills and knowledge when writing your CV and job applications.

Recruiters expect CVs and applications to be targeted to each vacancy.  Prepare a different version for each job application. Use the job description, person specification or information on company websites to identify what is required, then match your skills and experience as closely as you can.

Work experience can add value to your studies and career by developing your skills, experiencing different work environments, providing networking opportunities and in many cases, the chance to earn money.  It can also help you discover your strengths and weakness to help with career planning.

There are lots of different types of work experience which you can do while you are a student such as:

Part-time work – paid employment that fits around university study throughout the academic year and may be extended in vacations.

Internships – structured, paid work experience linked to your career interests and providing real benefit to both you and the employer.  Normally during June – September but sometimes during other university vacations.  In the UK or abroad.

Placements – experience in a workplace (3-12 months)  directly linked with your study.  Paid or unpaid.

Vacation Opportunities – paid work for a fixed period at Christmas, Easter or summer in the UK or abroad.

Voluntary Work/ Projects – unpaid work within a charity or not-for-profit organisation, in the UK or abroad.

Gap Year – a break to travel or gain work experience during or immediately after study.

GCU Work Experience Hub – provides students with a ‘one stop shop’ to a range of on-campus and part-time work experience opportunities. This is based within the Careers Centre, so students have easy access to the full range of resources, expertise and advice provided by the Careers Service, who can assist and support you to make the most of your career development and employability.

For information about your eligibility to work in the UK, please check on the GCU VISA website.