Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur)
SOAS is pleased to announce that we are taking part in the Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) scheme. The scheme is designed to enable graduates that we identify as having developed world class innovative ideas or entrepreneurial skills, to extend their stay in the UK after graduation to establish one or more businesses. SOAS can sponsor 10 students per year on the scheme.
Successful applicants will be granted a 12 month visa and have the chance to apply for a second 12 month visa if the business is making progress. Although you will be expected to spend most of your time setting up the business, you will be able to work up to 20 hours per week outside the business in order to support yourself financially.
You will need to be able to prove you have held savings of £900 for the 90 day period prior to making your application.
We will maintain contact with participants and assess progress on a quarterly basis and inform the UK Border Agency if participants are no longer participating in the scheme.
You can only apply for Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) whilst you are in the UK.
If you have previously held a Tier 1 (Post Study Work) visa, you will not be eligible for the scheme.
Time spent on a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa will not count towards settlement in the UK.
Registration
To register your interest in the scheme please complete this registration form.
In order to submit a full application you must do the following:
- Make an appointment with John Hitchman to confirm visa status/immigration requirements and with Claire Hardesty to discuss your business idea.
- Submit a completed Graduate Entrepreneur Visa Business Idea Plan Form with your CV and covering letter, explaining why you wish to apply for a graduate entrepreneur visa and what makes you suitable.
Deadlines for those graduating in 2013 will be announced in Term 2.
For business support and advice please visit the SOAS Enterprise website and the SOAS Careers Service website.
For more information about the requirements of the visa please see the UKBA website.
