International Architecture Graduates and Students in the UK: Survey Results
Background
In April 2024 a survey was ran in response to the then Conservative Government’s changes to salary threshold requirements for international students of architecture wishing to remain in the UK and work. The new salary thresholds were, and remain, well beyond the industry averages. The results shed some light upon the Challenges and Experiences of International Architecture Graduates and Students in the UK.
This survey was made for aspiring UK architects from an overseas background who were encouraged to complete this survey if they were currently studying, recently graduated or employed and their ability to progress in their career in architecture was dependant upon UK government’s visa policies.
Contained within the the survey was critical information regarding the changes and signposting of existing online resource which was and remains limited.
This survey captured data to help provide a clearer picture of the impact of the visa changes, the effect they may be having on the future of the architecture profession in the UK and possible solutions.
Abstract
This study explores the challenges faced by international architecture graduates and students in the UK, focusing on visa sponsorship, institutional support, and professional pathways. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative data analysis with qualitative thematic coding to identify critical gaps in the support ecosystem.
Findings highlight systemic issues, such as fragmented guidance on visa processes, insufficient institutional and professional body support, and salary thresholds that disadvantage early-career architects. Moreover, respondents report financial strain and emotional stress exacerbated by the lack of coordinated support from key institutions.
Recommendations include enhanced guidance materials, centralised resources, financial assistance, and targeted initiatives by professional organisations like ARB and RIBA to address these disparities and foster equitable professional integration.
The research underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to create a more supportive framework for international architectural talent.
Introduction
The UK attracts a significant number of international students pursuing architecture, a profession requiring clear pathways to qualification and employment. However, these students often face unique challenges, including navigating visa requirements, securing employment, and gaining professional accreditation.
This study was conducted in response to the UK government’s changes to salary threshold requirements for work visas—policy changes introduced by the Conservative Party—which have added additional barriers for international graduates. These new thresholds complicate the transition from education to employment, particularly in architecture, where starting salaries often fail to meet the required benchmarks. By exploring these challenges, this research aims to provide actionable insights to improve the support ecosystem for international architecture graduates and students.
Additionally, the study situates these challenges within the broader context of policy reforms and the evolving dynamics of the UK’s professional and educational landscape.
Methodology
This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis. Data were collected through a structured survey distributed to international architecture graduates and students in the UK, yielding 79 responses. The survey included both closed and open-ended questions to capture a range of experiences and perspectives. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics to identify trends, while qualitative responses underwent thematic coding to extract key themes. This involved iterative reading, coding, and grouping of responses into categories such as visa challenges, institutional support, and professional pathways.
The Gioia methodology was integrated to ensure clarity and depth by structuring qualitative findings into three levels: first-order concepts (participant terms), second-order themes (researcher interpretations), and aggregate dimensions (overarching insights). The study also contextualised findings with recent policy changes, particularly the Conservative Party’s adjustments to visa salary thresholds. Specific questions targeted participants’ awareness of accreditation processes, perceptions of institutional support, and the financial and emotional toll of navigating these barriers, providing a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of their experiences.
Disclaimer:
This research is an independent piece of work developed and delivered entirely by volunteers
Findings
1. Visa Sponsorship: Identifying Architecture Practices
Participants repeatedly underscored the lack of opportunities due to employer preferences for prior UK-based experience and reluctance to sponsor visas. Insights from the spreadsheet reinforce these frustrations, as respondents noted limited feedback or acknowledgment from potential employers. This mirrors findings from external studies, such as a report by Universities UK International (2021), which reveals similar trends across disciplines.
The mismatch between salary thresholds and entry-level architecture salaries further exacerbates these difficulties (Architects’ Journal, 2023).
Key Themes (Braun & Clarke):
Reliance on Government Resources (First-Order Concept): The majority of respondents (68%) relied on the UK Government website to identify architecture practices that sponsor work visas. This highlights dependence on official sources for critical information.
Independent Efforts (Second-Order Theme): 74% described self-initiated methods such as email inquiries, phone calls, search engine research, and networking.
Job Descriptions and Recruiters (Aggregate Dimension): Several respondents discovered sponsors through job descriptions or recruiter advice, demonstrating the role of employment pathways in providing clarity.
Informal Networks: Word of mouth emerged as an additional, albeit less common (32%), method for finding sponsorship opportunities.
Challenges Identified:
Fragmented approaches to obtaining sponsorship information
Heavy reliance on personal effort and informal channels, disadvantageous to those unfamiliar with the UK job market.
The absence of centralised resources tailored to architecture graduates.
Limited awareness of employer-sponsored visa opportunities, further exacerbating accessibility challenges.
2. Support from Employers, Universities, and Professional Bodies
A recurring theme in the survey responses is the inadequacy of university guidance on visa requirements and career strategies. Comments specifically criticized the lack of preparation for navigating post-graduation employment hurdles, as evidenced by participants’ narratives in the spreadsheet and word document. For example, several respondents noted the lack of proactive guidance or clear communication from RIBA and ARB regarding pathways to professional qualification and employment. This aligns with research by Fincher and Shaw (2020), which highlights that many international students feel abandoned by their institutions during their transition to professional life. Additionally, professional organizations such as RIBA and ARB were criticized internally for their limited engagement, while external sources corroborated these findings, emphasizing systemic gaps in support and advocacy for international graduates.
The necessity of support from these stakeholders has been widely acknowledged in academic and professional discourse. For instance, the report by Universities UK International (p. 12) emphasises the critical role of career services and targeted employer engagement in supporting international graduates’ transition into the workforce. Moreover, research from the Higher Education Policy Institute (p. 8) underscores international students' reliance on robust career services to navigate post-graduation challenges. Similarly, the Office for Students (p. 15) highlights innovative university measures, such as workshops and mentorship programs, designed to support international talent effectively.
Support from Employers and Universities:
Dissatisfaction with Support
81% of participants expressed dissatisfaction with guidance on visa requirements and career pathways, citing inconsistent support.
Positive Experiences (Second-Order Theme)
A minority of respondents reported positive institutional engagement.Variability Across Institutions
Experiences varied significantly depending on the university or employer, reflecting systemic inconsistencies.
Support from ARB and RIBA:
Perceived Neglect (First-Order Concept):
Overwhelmingly, respondents felt unsupported by ARB and RIBA. Specifically, 97% of survey respondents stated that ARB offered no guidance tailored to international students, while 95% felt similarly unsupported by RIBA. These findings underline systemic gaps in outreach and assistance for graduates navigating professional pathways in the UK.
Potential for Targeted Initiatives (Second-Order Theme):
Limited but notable positive feedback highlights opportunities for these bodies to better address gaps. Statements show potential for targeted initiatives, such as mentorship programs and tailored resources.
3. Awareness of Immigration and Accreditation Requirements
Responses in the spreadsheet indicate limited awareness of visa restrictions and accreditation processes prior to enrollment in UK academic programs. Many participants reported being uninformed by universities about the specific requirements for work visas or accreditation, such as ARB registration, until late in their studies.
The Word document highlights frustrations with the lack of proactive guidance from institutions and professional bodies. Participants frequently expressed dismay at the late-stage realization that their qualifications did not align with UK standards or visa requirements. Some described a sense of abandonment, citing unclear pathways to professional practice and insufficient support in navigating ARB-prescribed exams.
These gaps result in significant stress, financial burdens, and barriers to employment. Students and graduates often discover crucial visa and accreditation requirements too late to make informed decisions or adequately prepare for professional practice in the UK.
This lack of awareness underscores the need for enhanced communication and transparency from universities, professional bodies, and policy-makers regarding immigration and accreditation pathways.
Participants did highlight initiatives such as "Save Our Architecture Students" (SOAS), a grassroots movement advocating for systemic reform. Survey respondents expressed hope in such efforts, and external sources validated their importance. For instance, the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Society of Architects (NDSA) introduced the "Roadmap to Recognition", a structured program supporting foreign nationals with ARB exam preparation. This initiative, detailed in their 2024 annual report, is a commendable model for addressing accreditation barriers.
Key Findings:
Mixed Awareness (First-Order Concept)
While many were aware of the Immigration Salary List, understanding of the requirements remained limited.
Accreditation Awareness Gaps
Respondents highlighted frequent confusion about RIBA and ARB accreditation pathways, particularly concerning Part 1 and Part 2 qualifications. For instance, one participant stated, "Despite completing a Part 2-equivalent course in the UK, I was asked to validate my Part 1, adding financial and administrative hurdles." (Row 26, India, Queen's University Belfast) Another noted, "Neither my university nor ARB provided clear guidance on accreditation options as an international graduate." (Row 21, Azerbaijan, Manchester School of Architecture)
Impact of Information Gaps:
These gaps create cascading issues, such as repeated rejections during job applications due to accreditation discrepancies and uncertainty about further qualification requirements. Many respondents expressed frustration, with one summarising, "I feel like I was left to navigate this maze alone, despite the significant fees I paid."
Potential Solutions:
Enhanced guidance materials from universities, RIBA, and ARB that are specifically tailored for international students.
Proactive support workshops focusing on the accreditation process, visa pathways, and job market navigation.
A dedicated online portal consolidating accreditation resources and pathways for international students.
4. Financial and Emotional Burdens
An overarching concern articulated by respondents from the survey relates to the significant obstacles and financial burdens associated with the UK visa system. Comments derived from the research highlight issues with unclear pathways and exorbitant costs tied to applications. This aligns with the UK Council for International Student Affairs study in 2022, indicating that international students contribute substantially to the UK economy but face disproportionate financial barriers
The systemic challenges reported by participants have significant impacts on mental health, as articulated in qualitative responses from the survey. Financial pressures, professional rejection, and a sense of exclusion are common themes. These observations are supported by studies such as Forbes-Mewett and Sawyer (2021), which document the mental health struggles of international students facing financial and social barriers.
Visa-Related Costs (First-Order Concept):
Substantial expenditures on visa-related fees were reported.Emotional Strain (Second-Order Theme):
Lack of support exacerbated feelings of isolation and frustration during critical career milestones.
5. Insights from Respondent Statements
Integration of Additional Statements (Braun & Clarke and Gioia):
As part of the research gathered from International students, graduates and employees, respondents were afforded the opportunity to submit an optional personal statement to share their views and experiences on the matter. A selection of comment have been extracted and quoted below.
First-Order Concepts:
"My family has invested approximately £150,000 into my education experience in the UK." (Row 21, Azerbaijan, Manchester School of Architecture)
"I have applied to over 500 positions, only to encounter the same demands for accreditation and visa validation." (Row 26, India, Queen's University Belfast)
"Government should be informed of how the system of architectural education works and what is the average salary of an architectural assistant or even a professional architect." (Row 21, Azerbaijan, Manchester School of Architecture)
"As of now, while I am writing this, we are 5 months in after graduation and 4 months in after acquiring a graduate visa. Even receiving responses to job applications is so difficult; let alone getting an interview." (Row 2, India, University of Liverpool)
"Despite holding the esteemed designation of RIBA Chartered Member, these regulatory and administrative hurdles have made the job search process particularly arduous." (Row 77, UK/Turkey, Various institutions)
"A few of my peers and I have just launched SOAS (Save Our Architecture Students), a movement starting with our student body to lobby against this change." (Row 60, UK, Manchester School of Architecture)
"I’ve had to spend £5,770 in both legal fees and visa fees in order to get this done, yet there are so many unknowns." (Row 6, Malaysia, Manchester School of Architecture)
"The financial burden is immense; my parents took loans to ensure I could pursue this degree, but the return on investment seems bleak." (Row 2, India, University of Liverpool)
"We pay five times more for a degree than local students, only to face rejection from companies after graduation." (Row 21, Azerbaijan, Manchester School of Architecture)
Second-Order Themes:
Perceived exclusion from the professional ecosystem.
Financial and administrative barriers exacerbating career challenges.
Lack of clarity and consistency in accreditation and sponsorship pathways.
Systemic inequities impacting international students, as evidenced by policies perceived to disadvantage them disproportionately.
Emotional impact of persistent rejection and lack of institutional support, contributing to frustration and disillusionment.
The second-order themes reflect the nuanced barriers faced by international architecture students and graduates in the UK. These include structural challenges, such as visa and accreditation hurdles, which impede their ability to transition into the professional ecosystem. Emotional and financial stressors compound the difficulties, as students and graduates frequently encounter systemic inequities in education-to-employment pathways. For many respondents, the lack of a supportive network or clear guidance fosters feelings of exclusion, while the high costs of education and visa requirements exacerbate financial strain. Together, these themes underscore the pressing need for reforms to create a more equitable and supportive framework for international architectural talent.
Aggregate Dimensions:
Structural barriers in professional and regulatory frameworks.
Emotional and financial toll on international graduates.
Persistent inequities in access to career pathways, compounded by high visa costs and unattainable salary thresholds.
Disconnect between institutional promises and post-graduation realities for international students.
The aggregate dimensions distil the systemic challenges outlined in both the survey data and qualitative statements. Structural and regulatory barriers hinder the ability of international graduates to secure meaningful employment, as visa restrictions and accreditation inconsistencies create persistent obstacles. The emotional and financial toll is exacerbated by a lack of transparent pathways and support mechanisms. Furthermore, many respondents perceive a stark disconnect between the promises of UK institutions—framed as inclusive and globally oriented—and the realities they face post-graduation. These dimensions highlight the urgent need for a cohesive, equitable framework to bridge the gap between education and professional integration for international architecture graduates.
Expanded Challenges:
Recent policy changes, such as increased salary thresholds for sponsorship, are widely seen as unattainable, especially for entry-level roles. According to the UK Home Office, the Skilled Worker Visa requires a salary threshold of £26,200 or £10.75 per hour, with variations for new entrants at £20,960. However, architecture professionals often struggle to meet these benchmarks due to industry-standard starting salaries, as noted in the RIBA Salary Guide. For example, the Pay100 Salary Guide 2023 reports that the average starting salary for a Part 1 architectural assistant is approximately £21,000, and for a Part 2 assistant, it ranges from £24,000 to £28,000, depending on the region. These figures fall below the Skilled Worker Visa threshold, highlighting the systemic challenges faced by international graduates. Similarly, data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on average earnings in the architecture sector further underscores the disparity. These policies disproportionately affect international graduates, compounding challenges related to visa sponsorship and professional integration. (RIBA Salary Guide 2023, Pay100 Salary Guide 2023, ONS Earnings Data)
Respondents consistently highlighted the disconnect between their education investments and post-graduation opportunities, with many perceiving the system as exploitative.
Summary of Key Findings (Aggregate Dimensions)
Gaps in institutional and organisational support.
Reliance on personal initiatives for navigating professional pathways.
Perception of neglect by professional bodies such as ARB and RIBA.
Structural and financial barriers limiting access to career pathways for international students.
Action-Focused Recommendations:
Centralised Visa Sponsorship Resource:
Develop a comprehensive platform listing architecture practices that sponsor work visas, maintained by professional bodies & Universities
Include advice and guidance for employers, students and universities
Enhanced Institutional Support:
Universities should implement targeted workshops and resources addressing visa requirements and professional pathways.
Proactive Engagement by ARB and RIBA:
These bodies should establish dedicated support services for international graduates, including mentorship programmes and tailored guidance.
Government should be lobbied to address the inequality and talent drain the profession is now experiencing
Financial Assistance:
Introduce bursaries or grants to alleviate the financial burden of visa-related costs including legal aid
Awareness Campaigns:
Increase dissemination of information on RIBA-accredited courses and immigration requirements through multiple channels.
Universities should advise international students of visa requirements prior to awarding a place on their courses
RIBA should advise international students of visa requirements for taking up a place on one of their course
Home Office should send to Universities (or a central repository as suggested in point 1) yearly reports of all companies registered to sponsor visas, so Universities can effectively communicate with students who require sponsorship where to look.
Home Office should increase transparency of the application process
Students should be reminded of the impending visa curtailment well in advance of the completion of their studies, so as to enable them time to prepare and make necessary arrangements (such ending tenancy agreements, vacating a role with an employer, and other obligations associated with deportation and relocation)
Further Action for Consideration
Potential solutions for ARB & RIBA’s consideration is to look towards addressing aspects of the underlying problem, including:
Reduction in time necessary to become an Architect
Push up architect salaries via:
A more equitable distribution of profits
Provision of education and training to drive up an in increase business acumen & entrepreneurship
Lobby government to recognise the complexity of attaining Chartered Architect status and therefore
reduce salary thresholds and
adjust visa timeframes for persons at all stages on their pathway to becoming a Chartered Architect
Legislated Protection of Function for the Architect
Conclusion
International architecture graduates and students face significant challenges in navigating the UK’s professional landscape. Addressing gaps in institutional support, enhancing resource accessibility, and alleviating financial burdens are critical to improving their experiences. The findings highlight the urgent need for coordinated reforms by universities, professional bodies, and policymakers to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for international talent. By implementing these recommendations, the UK can not only attract but also retain diverse architectural talent, strengthening its position as a global leader in architectural education and practice.
Limitations
This study is limited by its sample size (n=79), which may not fully represent the diversity of international architecture graduates and students in the UK. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data introduces the potential for response bias.
Many students reached out too may have already understood their chances of remaining in the UK were low and the completion of any survey may not improve their immediate situation, resulting in fewer responses.
Future research should expand the sample size and incorporate longitudinal studies to track the long-term experiences of international graduates.
References
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Paul MacMahon
NDSA / RIBA Council