Making the degree count

Work rules, internships, networking, post-study options and the choice between staying and returning. Rules as of 2026-09.

What: Your university's rules on plagiarism, citation, collaboration and AI tools in assessed work.
Why: Rules differ from home and are enforced strictly; a misconduct case can affect grades, funding and visa status.

Watch out

Assuming group work or AI use is allowed because it was at home.

What: The hours and kinds of work a student visa allows during term and breaks.
Why: Breaking them can end your visa and affect future applications.
Example: As of 2026-09: UK degree students 20 hours a week in term; US F-1 students 20 hours a week on campus in term; Canada 24 hours a week off campus in term; Australia 48 hours per fortnight; Japan 28 hours a week with permission; Germany 140 full days a year.

Watch out

Planning your budget around work income you cannot legally earn.

Also called CPT, Werkstudent, placement, Curricular Practical Training

What: The conditions under which a student can take an internship, which may require it to be part of the programme or authorised in advance.
Why: Internships often lead to the first job, but unauthorised work can cost you your status.

Watch out

Accepting an internship before checking how your visa treats it.

What: Building real relationships with classmates, professors and professionals through seminars, events and follow-up.
Why: Referrals, references and research openings mostly come through people.

Watch out

Collecting contacts without ever following up.

What: Permission to stay and work after graduating, such as the Graduate Route, OPT, the post-graduation work permit, the Temporary Graduate visa or a job seeker permit.
Why: It shapes the return on investment of a degree, and every country changes its rules over time.

Watch out

Assuming post-study work leads automatically to permanent residence.

Also called OPT, Optional Practical Training, STEM OPT

What: Optional Practical Training allows up to 12 months of work in your field; graduates of eligible STEM degrees can apply for a 24-month extension.
Why: It is the main way F-1 graduates gain US work experience, with strict application windows.

Watch out

Applying late, or forgetting that work beyond your admission end date now needs an extension of stay.

What: Your mental and physical health, finances and support network while studying far from home.
Why: Loneliness and money stress are common and affect grades; universities offer free support.

Watch out

Waiting for a crisis before using support services.

Go deeper