As an international student at UCT, you have many possibilities after graduation. Options may include further study, returning to your home country to work, applying to stay and work in SA, or looking for an opportunity elsewhere in the world.
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Options with your degree
Some options with your degree may be obviously and directly linked to what you have studied, but many jobs require a cluster of skills that are not necessarily subject knowledge based.
We have compiled a list of useful sector sites, ideas for voluntary work, further study ideas and work opportunities for you to explore that are related to your area of study. This is just to get you thinking - if nothing appeals to you, know that these are not your only options.
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Further study
If you’re thinking about studying further, you’re welcome to come and discuss this with us at the Careers Service; you can also talk to faculty staff and UCT’s Postgraduate Centre & Funding Office.
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Staying in South Africa to work
As an international student, with a Study Visa to be in South Africa, you are permitted to work in a voluntary capacity or may be paid to work for up to 20 hours per week on a part-time basis. The Department of Home Affairs is responsible for visas - information can be found on their website.
General work visas are issued only to foreigners where South African citizens with the relevant skills are not available; it is worth investigating if you are entitled to apply for a Critical Skills Work Visa.
Visas are issued for a set duration, which varies according to the type of work visa, and applications are made through Visa Facilitation Services Centres (VFS).
In addition, the Careers Service produces an annual guide that presents companies, who they are looking for and if SA citizenship is required: Read the Guide here.
Below is a list from this guide of companies that are looking for UCT students and do not require South African citizenship:
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Working back home or internationally
Remember to emphasise your knowledge of English and the skills and attributes that you have developed while studying abroad.
Many of the employers who engage with UCT have global operations, so do your homework in researching them and then target those who may be able to help you explore your options.
Make sure you get a written reference from a supervisor or staff member at UCT before you leave, and get permission to list someone suitable on your CV as a referee.
There are opportunities, both local and international, listed on MyCareer that you are welcome to apply for.
These are some sites you could consult: