Graduate Employment:Opportunities Abroad



Recent figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) show an increase in the number of graduates who have chosen to work abroad since the start of the recession.

In 2011, 27% more graduates worked overseas than had done so in 2008. For students from Oxford and Cambridge, there was an even greater increase of 35% in the same period.

Although this is still only a small proportion of all UK graduates (less than 4%), a recent survey by the British Council found that 1 in 3 people felt they would have a better job if they had lived or studied abroad
 

Jo Beall, a Director at the Council, commented on the survey results: 

'The good news is that this poll shows people are beginning to recognise how vital international skills are for enhancing their career. Research last year revealed that more UK employers look for international awareness and experience above academic qualifications. But the bad news is that not enough people in the UK are taking opportunities to gain international experience. That needs to change if the UK will successfully compete in the global economy.'
 

For more information on job-seeking, visit the Wordsworth Reading resource page for job-seekers at http://www.wordsworthreading.co.uk/jobresources.shtml