Start Up Visa
We’re looking for non-EEA (European Economic Area) international graduates with exceptional business ideas.
Are you graduating this year, or have you previously graduated from Brookes? Start up your own business in the UK with the support of our Start Up Visa scheme.
The Start Up Visa scheme gives non-EEA International graduates the chance to develop innovative business ideas and learn essential entrepreneurial skills.
If selected, you’ll be endorsed by Oxford Brookes University and supported in the application for a Start Up Visa, which gives you two years to stay in the UK and work on your business.
The scheme gives you the chance to build your business under the support and guidance of our business mentors. Business experience isn’t necessary, but you’ll need to be motivated, resilient and determined to learn!
Eligibility
To apply for the Start Up Visa, you will need to be a graduate of Oxford Brookes University and have been awarded a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree or PhD before the date of endorsement. Applications can be made from inside or outside the UK.
For your business proposal, there are a couple of rules and guidelines you’ll need to follow.
Your business should add something to the UK economy, be potentially scalable and create employment opportunities in the UK, beyond those of just the applicant. It shouldn’t simply be a trading company or something that directly competes with other local businesses. Examples of ineligible businesses would include a fast food outlet, a clothes shop, an estate agency, property development or an accountancy firm, or a similar type of company.
Above all, make your business proposal genuine, credible and innovative.
We strongly recommend reading the UKVI webpage for all of the conditions of the Start Up Visa before you submit an application.