UK - Science and Engineering Graduates Scheme Delayed

22 June 2004

A proposal to introduce a new Science and Engineering Graduates' Scheme was announced in the Chancellor's Budget Report on 9 April 2004.

The scheme will be aimed at encouraging non-EEA national science and engineering graduates of UK universities to pursue their careers in the United Kingdom.

The scheme will allow graduates of UK educational institutions with degrees in an approved subject to remain in the United Kingdom for one year after completing their studies.

Participants in the scheme will be able to work and may switch into other work or self-employment categories at any point during their stay.

Home Office officials are currently working on the detail of the proposal. The scheme was expected to be launched this summer, but this is subject to the further consideration of the immigration system announced by the Prime Minister and is unlikely to be in place before summer 2005.

Further announcements will follow and the scheme will be widely publicised prior to launch on this website.

Related: UK Information about science and engineering graduate students