Building international links through entrepreneurship The Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa

AURIL Conference Workshop Summary Oct 2017

Hints and tips for success

Amidst the highly competitive global market for attracting international students valued at ￡4.8bn in tuition fees amounting to 14% of total income to UK universities (Universities UK, 2017) together with a sizeable ￡5.4bn spend on additional goods and services, entrepreneurship provides an under exploited added value service in the choice of institution.

University reputations can be seriously damaged without careful attention to the detail of the recruitment, support and management of the Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa Scheme but this can be both avoided and enhanced by adopting a series of simple practices.

Here are my key hints and tips for T1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa success:

1.    Develop the process – ensure a robust fair and transparent selection process.

2.    Build in the support – workshops, business advice and mentoring are required.

3.    Set clear targets – identify what is expected for continued participation.

4.    Monitor regularly - minimum of 3 monthly 1-2-1 meeting to check progress

5.    Create a self-supportive environment – set up peer group support.

6.    Identify the champions – successful entrepreneurs form powerful advocates.

7.    Capture the stories – short case studies, 30 sec video will inspire others.

Above all take a wide view since a small number will make it through to Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa success. They are your global ambassadors.