What to do after finishing university

Working out what to do after university can be a challenge. The possibilities may seem endless, and, while this is exciting, it can also create a lot of uncertainty and some existential wonderings.

We know it’s easier said than done, but try not to worry. It’s OK not to have everything figured out after you graduate. Take some time to explore your options and discover the best path for you.

This guide is designed to help you work out what to do after graduating from university, whether you dive into the career pool or find yourself on a gap year.

• It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at the thought of finishing uni.

• Don’t forget to take some time to look back and celebrate your achievements.

• Explore different options before you make up your mind – from further study, to finding a career you’re passionate about, to seeing the world.

Jump to a section:

• Exploring career paths

• Taking a gap year or going travelling

• Deciding where to live

• Continuing education

• Don't rush your decision

Exploring career paths after university

It’s natural to start discussing plans as you head towards the end of your degree. But, no matter how organised your friends may sound, you’re all in the same boat. Before committing to one direction, explore different career options after university to help you find your path.

You can research different industries, talk to careers advisers, try an internship, or gain some practical experience in a field you’re interested in.

Graduate schemes

Graduate job schemes differ from other entry-level roles. These schemes are structured training programmes open to recent graduates. Typically offered by large companies, they often last for one to three years and include rotations across departments.

Graduate schemes are essentially training programmes mixed with hands-on experience. You’ll enjoy a salary and employment benefits, but the scheme isn’t permanent employment. All sorts of companies run grad schemes, including those in:

• Agriculture

• The charity sector

• Engineering

• Finance

• HR

• Healthcare

• IT

• Sales

• Law

• Marketing.

An entry-level graduate role is usually a full-time, permanent role that you’ll start after finishing your studies. With this type of role, you’ll typically be learning on the job, rather than following a structured training programme.

How to land a graduate job

Taking a graduate job opportunity straight after university allows you to hone the skills you’ve learnt through your studies while they’re fresh in your mind. And it may start you on the path to a fulfilling career in your chosen field.

The application process for graduate jobs can be highly competitive. If you decide to pursue one, there are a few things you can do to help your application stand out from the crowd. These include:

• Tailoring your CV for each role you apply for, including company-specific knowledge

• Prioritising the skills and qualifications most relevant to the job

• Building a solid LinkedIn profile to get your name out there

• Spending time preparing for interviews and honing your technique.

Internships

An internship is a great way to test the waters in your chosen industry before you start applying for full-time graduate positions. It’s designed to be a low-risk way to gain experience in your chosen field to help you figure out if it’s right for you. In some cases, it may lead to permanent employment.

Internships allow you to:

• Build a professional network

• Gain industry experience

• Improve employability chances

• Learn practical skills

• Update your CV.

Your careers adviser at university is a good place to start when thinking about internships. They’ll have contacts and ideas that you may not have thought of. You can also look for internships on the Find a Job service at Gov.uk, or apply directly to companies you’re interested in working for.

Just remember that many internships are low-paid or not paid at all. So, you’ll probably need some other source of income or financial support alongside it – meaning it’s not the right option for everyone.

Be mindful of red flags to watch out for in internships:

• Too much emphasis on ‘exposure’

• Unclear job descriptions

• Bad reviews

• High staff turnover

• No mention of opportunities for future employment

• Absence of training or mentorship

• Unrealistic job requirements.

Non-graduate work

Non-graduate work describes roles that don’t require a degree. You could see this as a job that pays the bills while you decide on the career to pursue after university. Popular roles for graduates include those in retail, hospitality or admin.

You could also consider freelancing while you think about your future. This can help you to develop your skillset and build out a portfolio of experience.

There’s nothing to say you have to launch right into your chosen career the second you leave university. It can be worthwhile to take a bit of time for reflection before starting long-term employment.

Taking on a non-graduate or temporary job opportunity after uni allows you to:

• Try something new

• Develop a different skillset

• Meet new people

• Consider your options without being tied to a long-term contract (but make sure you check your employment conditions).

All these possibilities provide opportunities to develop transferrable skills while earning money. And you can build up your experience and CV while you work.

Continue education

Some people may find their path in continuing education. Whether you’ve just finished an undergraduate degree and are raring to go on a master’s, or you’re looking to develop your expertise in your subject further with a PhD, there are a lot of options. For certain industries, short courses or professional qualifications may be a natural next step.

Postgraduate studies

Postgraduate studies allow you to develop further skills to help you progress in your chosen field, improving your career prospects after university.

But there are financial considerations too. Embarking on a master’s qualification can be costly, and you’ll need to support yourself while you study. Take some time to look at the demand for these types of qualifications in your chosen field to guide your decision.

If you’re already working in your chosen profession, attaining a master’s degree or similar could be a fast-track to career progression. You may also have an employer who will contribute to your extended study.

Short courses or professional certifications

If you don’t have the time or money to commit to another degree, you could still expand your skill base by looking into short courses or professional qualifications specific to your industry.

For example, when weighing up a career in finance, you could look into taking ACCA qualifications.

You can often study for these courses online and they may open new opportunities in the world of work – for less commitment than a full degree.

How to find a job after university

Finding a job after uni isn’t easy, but there are tons of resources out there to help you take your first steps. While you’re at uni, make the most of your tutors and careers advisers. Job search platforms can also help you find internships and entry-level opportunities.

We’ve put together some of our best tips for landing a job after university:

• Use university careers services. Your uni will likely have contacts with companies in a range of sectors, and they may arrange careers fairs in your final year to help you make connections and network with alumni. Plus, you can seek personalised advice from an expert to help you on your job hunt.

• Apply through graduate job boards. Graduate job boards have done the hard work for you by collating different opportunities – search listings to find internships, grad schemes or entry-level roles.

• Tailor CVs and cover letters. We know it’s time-consuming, but tailoring your CV and cover letter to the specific role you’re applying for goes a long way in securing an interview. Go the extra mile now to give yourself the best chance.

• Prepare for interviews. When you get your big break, make sure you’re ready. Spend some time practising your answers to questions so it comes naturally next time you’re faced with an interview panel.

What to do on a gap year after university

A gap year is an opportunity to discover new cultures, ways of living and learn things about yourself. Travel broadens your horizons in more ways than just the literal – you might find you come home with an entirely new perspective on what to do with your life. Plus, it’s a load of fun.

Stuck for what to do on a gap year after university? Here are some ideas:

• Travel abroad. Use this time to get out of your comfort zone and see the world. You’ll likely meet like-minded people along the way and see some incredible sights as you spend time in other countries.

• Volunteering. A gap year provides the perfect opportunity to do something you’re passionate about and give back to the community.

• Teach English. Kill two birds with one stone. Combine a love for travelling with a desire to help communities by teaching English abroad.

• Seasonal work. As the name suggests, seasonal work is temporary. You may decide to embark on farm work, try a season at a ski resort, or work at a summer camp.

• Gain experience. You could consider making your gap year more meaningful by doing something career-related at the same time.

Things to consider before a gap year after university

If you want to take a gap year and go travelling, you’ll need to figure out your budget. If you don’t have much disposable income, you may need to look into getting a work placement in the country you’re travelling to or pick up part-time jobs as you go.

It’s also important to consider how you’ll explain the gap in your CV to future employers. Focus on selling your gap year as an invaluable experience where you spent time learning new skills – rather than an extended holiday.

Where to live after university

Another key consideration after university is where you’re going to call home. Deciding where to live can be tricky, especially if you don’t have savings or some other form of financial support. From moving in with family to finding your own place, there’s a lot to consider.

Moving back in with parents

Moving back home with your parents may give you a chance to save some money while you figure out your next steps – without the added financial pressure of renting. However, you may find it tricky to readjust to the family dynamic after being away for several years, and the loss of independence might not appeal.

Plus, everyone’s situation is unique, and not every graduate will have this option to fall back on.

Finding a place to rent

You may decide to find somewhere to rent, either on your own or with some friends. This could be a good chance to explore a new city and move closer to where the best job opportunities are in your industry.

But you’ll need to consider your finances – rents are at an all-time high in the UK. You’ll need an income and a careful budget.

Our budgeting tips:

• List your outgoings and prioritise spending into essential, important and extra.

• List your incomings.

• Calculate what’s left over. This is your budget for extras like takeaways, nights out or new clothes.

Staying in your university city

If you’ve fallen in love with the city where you went to uni, then staying there could be a good option. You’re already familiar with the location and probably have a decent social network.

However, before committing to this, explore job options both for right now and in the future so you can feel confident it’s the right place to expand your career.

Moving to a new city

Trying somewhere new can be scary, but it can also open up new opportunities. It’s a great chance to expand your social and professional network. Research the city you’re considering before you commit and make a list of pros and cons.

Some top tips for meeting new people:

• Use social media to find like-minded people in your local area.

• Volunteer for a charity you feel passionately about to meet others with the same values.

• Join a gym or library or attend events to meet your neighbours. Or start a club – like a book club or board game meet-up.

Don’t rush your decision

Don’t worry, it’s normal not to know what to do after university. It’s natural not to have everything planned – and there’s no need to rush a decision. Career paths after university often develop over time, and you may change your mind as you gain new experiences in the working world.

There’s no single ‘right path’ after graduating from university. Depending on your industry, ambition and skillset, there could be a variety of options. Explore different avenues, reflect on your goals and take time to choose the way that makes sense to you. Trust your instincts.

Remember, uncertainty is an opportunity to embrace new possibilities – and success looks different to everyone.

FAQs

What are graduate schemes? 

Graduate schemes are a form of structured training programme for graduates. Offered by large companies from a variety of industries, from agriculture to sales, graduate schemes allow you to gain hands-on experience alongside training. Graduate schemes often last from one to three years and should offer a salary and employee benefits.

What should I do after graduating university? 

The choice is yours! There’s no one right answer. If you feel ready to enter the world of work, you could consider finding an entry-level job or graduate scheme in an industry you’re interested in. Or, you may decide to embark on further study with a master’s degree or even ‘find yourself’ on a gap year.

How long after university should you get a job? 

There’s no set path on what to do after university. Many graduates take their time to explore options after finishing their studies. There’s a lot to consider – from starting your career to further learning. You may need to find short-term work to pay the bills while you think things through.

Is it OK not to know what to do after university? 

Yes, it’s common to not know what to do after university. It can be an overwhelming time. There’s so much choice, and it can be tricky to narrow down your options. Take your time to consider different paths and speak to family, friends and tutors for advice as you finish your final years at uni.

What are the best graduate job opportunities? 

The best graduate job opportunities depend on your dream career and role. If you know the industry you’re interested in, but are not sure on a specific role, graduate schemes often offer a rotation – so you can get a feel for different departments. Or, if you know exactly what you want to do, getting straight into an entry-level job is a fast-track into the world of work.