Working in the USA: How to apply for a work visa after graduation
First of all, congratulations! You’re on your way to becoming a full-fledged economist. But, if you want to transition from student to economist in the “land of the free and the home of the brave”, you’ll need to prepare to apply for your US work visa. We’re here to help you begin tackling the process. Read on for information about getting your United States work visa, and our tips for making the entire affair go smoothly. From student to job seeker: the H-1B visa program If you’re not from the US but completed your economics studies in the US, you probably had to get a Type F student visa. The process for attaining this visa is explained in the linked article. The US student visa does not authorize working in the country long-term. Once you complete your studies, you have a 60-day grace period where you’re allowed to remain in the US, and then you must leave the country. But fear not: if you successfully received a Type F visa and studied in the US, you’ll be eligible to apply for a change of status from non-working student to an employed worker. There are two ways to do this: either apply for a non-immigrant H-1B visa that allows working in the US, which is the most common and straightforward method, or apply for an immigrant visa. This latter visa type means you intend to live in the US long-term. However, if you plan to settle in the US long term, it’s entirely possible to apply for the H-1B visa and then later apply for permanent residence. In fact, this is one of the most common methods used by international students who plan to stay in the US after graduating. This method is typically recommended even if you want to live in the US permanently; directly applying for a permanent stay visa is more difficult than receiving an H-1B first. To apply for an H-1B visa, you must find a job in the US. Then, the employer can sponsor your application for the H-1B, which is necessary for your visa application to be processed. Because of the need for an employer sponsor, it pays to take full advantage of the career services, job fairs, and other employment events at your US university campus. This can help you network and find a full-time job that suits you quickly after you graduate. Be sure to check with university officials for more information on these events! Working before you find your employer sponsor: OPT and CPT But if you don’t have access to career services, or can’t find a job before you graduate, fret not – you don’t need to have a job lined up immediately to stay in the US. You can apply for temporary work authorization first, and work for up to one year before you find a job with an employer who can sponsor your H-1B. If you work in a STEM field, you may have up to three years. This work authorization is known as Optional Practical Training (OPT). The OPT period lasts for up to a year after graduation. Again, if you’re working in a STEM field, you can extend the period for another 17 months on top of the initial year. To apply, you must be a student on an F-1 student visa studying in the US and planning to work in the US after you graduate, in the same field you’re studying. You must apply using Form I-20, which must be signed by the designated university official (DSO) who handles immigration and foreign student affairs. If successful, you’ll then receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Each university may have a varying process for assisting their students with this application. If you plan to pursue an OPT, find your DSO beforehand and be sure to communicate with them before getting started. Remember, you do need an employer sponsor in order to eventually apply for an H-1B – which you’ll need to do during your OPT period if you plan to stay in the US. So, during your OPT period, make sure you’re still looking for a job that will sponsor your H-1B application after your work authorization period. How the H-1B visa system works Whether you apply for an OPT period or not, the formal requirements to qualify for an H-1B visa are as follows: A valid job offer from a U.S. employer for a role that “requires specialty knowledge”; this requirement typically means you need at least a university degree to reasonably work the job Proof of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in the field you’ll be employed in, i.e., economics A $10 application fee (accurate as of this writing, but the fees are subject to increase) Your employer must show that there is a lack of qualified U.S. applicants for the role If your application is selected for further processing, your employer will need to pay the government a fee and submit a Form I-129 The US typically has many applicants apply for immigration each year, but the government only allows new visas up to a certain quota. Thus, valid H-1B visas are awarded via a lottery system. Extra lottery slots are reserved for applicants who have a Master’s degree or higher. Further, the visa cap is ignored for applicants who are sponsored by a university, a university-affiliated non-profit, or a government research organization. Thus, if your employer matches one of these categories, you have better-than-usual chances of receiving an H-1B. Unfortunately, the fact that H-1B visas are awarded via lottery means that even if you do everything right, you might be unlucky and not be drawn from the lottery. On the bright side, though, this means that your school performance doesn’t matter when you’re considered for the visa. You still need a company to sponsor you, but once you have a valid and complete H-1B visa application, your name will be entered in the lottery and your chances will be the same as everyone else. Thus, it’s wise to prepare a backup plan in case you don’t win the lottery the first time around. Will you have enough time remaining on your existing visa to stay and try again next year (such as if you have a three-year work authorization in a STEM field), or should you make contingency plans? Remember that you can always re-enter the lottery later, provided you still have an employer sponsoring you. Failing to receive an H-1B from the lottery is not the same as your visa application being rejected; it simply means the immigration quota was full and you’ll need to try again next year. A quick tip about switching jobs on the H-1B Because the H-1B is tied to employment, it will be more difficult than usual to switch jobs or employers while you’re in the US on this visa. It is possible through a process known as the H-1B transfer; this is done by first accepting a job offer from the new employer, and then applying for a transfer. However, this is a cumbersome process and could put you at a disadvantage on the job market. Thus, if you have options, you should consider carefully the first job that you decide to take on when applying for the visa. Staying longer: applying for permanent status after your H-1B visa Your H-1B visa can be extended and allow you to stay in the US for up to six years. If you intend to settle in the US permanently, this gives you plenty of time to begin applying for a more permanent stay visa if you so wish. After receiving your H-1B, you’ll be able to apply for a change of status to US permanent resident and receive the “green card” if you’re successful. This will grant you the ability to stay in the US permanently and change jobs as much as you want, although it is not considered citizenship. For more on the green card and citizenship, be sure to check out the US Department of State’s and the US Citizenship and Immigration Service’s websites. Hopefully, this article will help you get started on launching your career in the US. Remember that many people have completed the process before you; don’t get discouraged if it takes some time. Best of luck! References https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states https://hbr.org/2022/08/a-guide-to-u-s-work-visas-for-international-students https://internationaloffice.berkeley.edu/students/employment/opt Header image credit: Image by YOONHEECHO from Pixabay
So, you’re studying for your economics degree in the United States of America. It's going well, and you’re enjoying life in the USA, so much that you’re thinking about staying longer and looking for a job in the US.
Working in Germany: How to apply for a work visa
But, now you might be wondering how to apply for a work visa in Germany if you hope to transition from student to economist, so you can pursue your career while remaining in Deutschland. We’re here to help you begin tackling the process. Read on for information about getting your work visa in Germany, and our tips for making the process go smoothly. But before we start, first note that residents of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and the European Free Trade Association do not need any visa to work in Germany. If you’re from one of these regions, simply find a job, start working, and enjoy life in the largest economy in Europe. First step: Job seeker’s visa Fortunately, Germany has made the process of finding a job in the country after you graduate an available and fairly straightforward option. After you graduate from a German university in the country, you’re eligible to apply for a job seeker’s visa. This grants you a minimum of six months (up to a maximum of 18 months) of stay in the country after you graduate, during which time you can look for a job. Recently graduated students aren’t the only people who qualify for a job seeker’s visa – any reasonably skilled professional has a chance at securing one. But, being a recent graduate of a German university increases the chances that your application will be successful – especially if you have proof of German language skills, too. The basic eligibility criteria to be awarded a job seeker’s visa are as follows: Hold a Bachelor or Master’s Degree. Have a minimum of 5 years’ experience in your field of interest or study (for those who haven’t graduated from a German university). Proof of health insurance; all residents of Germany are mandated to have health insurance. Foreigners should look into health insurance for job seekers, or health insurance for foreigners. Student insurance only lasts through your studies, so once you graduate, you’ll have to re-apply for insurance. Proof of sufficient funds; this means you can prove that you have enough savings or income to afford your living expenses. For job seekers, this takes the form of a blocked account (just as with students), letter of sponsorship from someone promising to pay for your expenses, or a bank statement showing sufficient funds. Language proficiency in either English or German. While only English language proficiency is enough to qualify for this type of visa, German proficiency is desired and will certainly help your chances. Documents needed to apply for this type of visa usually include the following list. But, please note that this list might not be exhaustive for every country. Check with your local Germany embassy to check what their requirements are. They will probably require: A completed German long-stay visa application form. Your valid passport that has at least six months before it expires. Three passport-style photos; these can be easily taken at a photo kiosk in Germany. If you’re not in Germany, many convenience stores and drugstores tend to offer these types of photos. Proof that you have a valid German address to stay in during your job-seeking period. Proof that you have health insurance (you’ll likely have to get foreign workers’ health insurance) in Germany. A cover letter explaining the purpose of your time in Germany, how you plan to find a job, and your backup plans if you don’t find one. Proof of academic qualification, which is typically proof of your previous diploma. If you aren’t a recent graduate or a current student, you’ll need to attach proof of work experience in the field you intend to work in. Students can also attach work experience to improve their chances of being granted a visa, too. Your curriculum vitae (CV). As stated above, proof of financial resources. This could be one of the following: a bank statement, a letter of sponsorship by another person, or a blocked bank account. Nationals of the EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, Israel, South Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Liechtenstein, Iceland, Switzerland, and the USA do not need to apply for a job seeker’s visa. They can enter the country without one (although they could choose to apply for a job seeker’s visa, too), but must obtain the appropriate residence visa to remain in Germany long-term. So, if you’re from one of these regions and already in Germany, you should instead apply for a temporary residence permit at the immigration authority. This office is officially called the Landesamt für Einwanderung, but is also known as the Ausländerbehörde. Nationals of the UK must acquire a job seeker’s visa as of this writing, though they can enter the country without one. Nationals of Turkey must obtain a job seeker’s visa before entering Germany as of this writing. How to apply for a job seeker’s visa To apply for the job seeker’s visa, you’ll need to visit your nearest German embassy or the Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) if you’re already inside Germany. To apply, book an appointment at the appropriate office, bring the required documents, and pay the fee. Then, you must wait for the visa to be processed, which can take up to 3 months according to the German Missions in the United States (although this may vary by country). Of course, be sure to check the list of required documents when you go; our list is representative, but does not cover possible deviations by country. Important information on applying for a permanent worker’s visa If you intend to work in Germany long-term, you’ll need a German “long stay” employment visa. If you find – or already found – a job with a German employer, they’ll sponsor this so that you can remain in the country. You should talk to your employer about the process if this is the case for you. You should also know that if you stay in Germany on an employment visa for at least five years, you’ll then qualify for a permanent residence permit (for more information on this permit, see the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees' website). Germany has three types of long stay work visas that will allow you to stay in the country and work long-term. These are the general employment visa, the special employment visa, and the self-employed visa. Requirements for each of these visas vary. As with the job seeker’s visa, please note: if you’re a citizen of the USA, Australia, Switzerland, South Korea, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, or an EU country, you can enter Germany without a visa and start the application process after you arrive in Germany. However, you’ll have a limited window to start the process (up to 90 days). It’s never a bad idea to begin the process earlier. How to apply for a German work visa (long stay) To apply for your employment visa in Germany, simply register for an appointment at your nearest German embassy (or, if you’re already in Germany, the Landesamt für Einwanderung or Ausländerbehörde), bring the necessary documents, and pay the fee. Then, you’ll have to wait for your visa to be processed. Remember to check the final, official list of documents with whatever office you intend to apply in; our list includes the usual requirements, but some offices might have varying requirements. Importantly, if you work as a teacher or other educator, doctor, nurse, engineer, or lawyer, or sometimes other positions*, you’ll also need to prove your vocational qualification showing that you are competently and sufficiently trained in addition to the normal documents. Hopefully, this article will help you get started on launching your career in Germany. Remember that many people have completed the process before you; don’t get discouraged if it takes some time. Best of luck! *Other positions include professions related to those listed, master craftspersons of certain fields, and others. You can search for your specific profession at the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung’s website. Alternatively, you can search a list of regulated professions in all EU countries – including Germany – here. However, the best way to check if your specific role is regulated or not is to ask your local German embassy. Sources: https://www.germany.info/us-en/service/visa/employment-visa/922292 https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/germany/visa/employment-visa/ https://visaguide.world/europe/germany-visa/long-stay/job-seeker/ https://visaguide.world/europe/germany-visa/long-stay/employment/ https://visaguide.world/europe/germany-visa/long-stay/employment/ https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/buergerservice/faq/weiteres-box/230198 https://www.germany.info/blob/902660/13b92beb6cbf3257cc066e1f212ab853/employment-data.pdf https://www.anerkennung-in-deutschland.de/en/interest/finder/notice?profession=1752 https://eurohealthobservatory.who.int/countries/germany Header image credit: Peter Dargatz from Pixabay (Free for use under the Pixabay Content License)
So, you studied abroad, got your economics degree in Germany, and you’re ready to look for a job in the country. First of all, congratulations! You’re on your way to becoming a full-fledged economist.
If you're thinking of going travelling but want to check out some Master's programs at the same time, take a look at our program listings. Set up a Virtual Private Network A virtual private network, or VPN, is a service that makes it safe and secure to use the Internet anywhere you happen to be. It does this by sending your connection through a server that hides what you're doing online. VPNs can be used wherever your travels take you and any data you use or create will be encrypted. That way no one can identify your computer, access your school data or steal your personal information. Make sure you're familiar with how VPNs are used in the countries you travel and be prepared for any technological or legal limitations in those places. Find an online study program Clearly a traditional program won't allow you to skip class and travel as the whim takes you. For that reason, you'll need to find an accredited and reputable online Master's degree program that you can access anywhere. There are many programs of this sort based out of many colleges and universities across the globe so do your research and find the one that best fits your area of study and your needs as you travel. Combine your itinerary with course requirements Whether you're traveling for work, pleasure or as a member of the military, look through the course requirements as you plan your trip itinerary. You will want to create an easy week if you have exams or a paper to write; don't pack your travel with sightseeing or constant meetings during these times! When you have an intense of week of study ahead of you, try to schedule more downtime or stops in relaxed locations where you'll have the time to get down to business when it's important. Pack the right materials You don't want to find yourself hundreds or thousands of miles from home without the materials you need to do your coursework. Make sure you have packed all relevant books, papers, and software you'll need to keep track of and complete your studies when you're away from home. In addition to that, you'll also want to make sure you have your laptop, smartphone, pencils, pens, notebooks, and any other supplies to help you study. You may want to subscribe to an online library so you can do research even if you can't get to a brick and mortar library. Enjoy the benefits The biggest perk to traveling while you do your Master's degree is the freedom to see the world and complete your bucket list without having to give up your ambitions when it comes to your education. While you travel, you will also be gaining worldly experience that will supplement your field of study and give you valuable skills and experiences you can include on your resume when you're ready to find a job using your Master's degree. Online classes are generally small, giving you a closer relationship with your instructor and peers so you can get the most out of your studies even if you're busy traveling. Understand the drawbacks As with anything, there are some cons to consider when you travel and complete your Master's degree at the same time. While they probably aren't serious enough to deter, it makes sense to understand the possible drawbacks so you can put a plan into place to deal with them. When you're travelling, you might find it hard to find the motivation to take the time to study and do your coursework. You will need to create a doable schedule that includes time for school so that you don't feel that you're missing out when you travel, but so you also don't get behind. Another possible drawback is that it could be hard to find an appropriate place to study when you aren't familiar with your location. Research each destination on your itinerary so you can find coffee shops, hostels geared for students, or libraries where you can settle in and get work done. Pay attention to time zones This is important as your work will have deadlines and you'll need to make sure you know what time it is where the assignment is due so that you get it turned in on time, regardless of where you happen to be at the time. Don't miss any deadlines because you thought you were five hours behind, but you were actually five hours ahead! Studying online is a prime way to have the freedom to travel and gain world experiences as you earn your Master's degree. Being prepared for everything you'll encounter means a smooth ride and enjoyable and productive travels. Bon voyage!
Having a Master's degree is a valuable way to advance your career and gain more knowledge in your chosen field. Unlike an undergraduate degree program, you may not have to go to school full time to achieve this step in your education. However, it does require some time and effort, which means you'll need to figure out how to fit it in with your lifestyle. If that lifestyle includes travel as a priority, you may wonder how you can complete your Master's without giving up your travel schedule. The good news is that you can do both. It won't be the conventional way to graduation that most post-grad students follow, but it can be done and you'll enjoy the freedom to travel while also completing your degree. Here's what you should know.
If you're currently mulling over whether to do a PhD, check out our PhD listings to find the right course for you. Do you want to go into academia? The main reason that most people start a PhD is so that they can begin a career in academia. However, doing a PhD and working in academia is very different from studying from an undergraduate or master's degree. You will need to be much more self directed and self motivated, and you will be more independent in your work, but it is hard to know if this environment will suit you until you try it. A good frame of reference for PhD work is the project that you perform as part of your master's or the final year of your bachelor's degree. Did you enjoy coming up with a concept and finding a way to test or explore that concept in a thesis? If yes, then you may be suited to a PhD. Be realistic about job prospects Many people growing up today have heard all their life that they have to have a good education to get a good job. And though this may be true, a high level of education is in no way a guarantee that a highly paid job will follow. Some subjects are better than others in terms of job outlook: subjects like hard sciences or computer science often lead to fulfilling jobs even if these positions are not necessarily within academia. But other subjects like the arts and humanities produce many more PhD graduates than there are jobs, leading to extremely stiff competition and many unemployed or underemployed graduates. This doesn't mean that doing a PhD is necessarily a bad idea – many students find doing a PhD to be deeply personally rewarding and the most exciting educational experience of their lives – but it does mean that you shouldn't do a PhD because you think you'll get a better job at the end. In most cases, if you want a particular job then you're better off gaining work experience than studying for an extended postgraduate degree. Where will funding for your PhD come from? One aspect of doing a PhD that is not always considered first but definitely should be is where the funding will come from. Doing a PhD is expensive: from the cost of setting up and running experiments, to expenses incurred travelling to conferences, not to mention the considerable expenses of supporting yourself for at least three years. Some people are so desperate to do a PhD that they will offer to fund themselves, by getting support from a partner or family or by living off their savings while they study. But this is generally a bad idea. Doing a PhD is a full-time job that should be paid as such. Working without funding is demoralising and arguably shows a lack of respect on the part of the institution and the supervisor. If they think that you are good enough to do a PhD, they should pay you at least the minimum you need to get by while you work. The systems for funding PhDs vary from country to country, so in Europe you might be first accepted onto a PhD program at a university and then apply for external funding, while in the US you might apply for a PhD and automatically be granted funding by the university if you are accepted. Another option which is common is for PhD students to receive half funding, which they supplement to full funding by working for their university as a teaching assistant or research assistant. In some situations, working a role during the PhD can be a good way to gain experience – especially if teaching experience is important for your career goals – but remember that teaching duties are a big source of extra stress and can require many additional hours of work on top of the actual hours of classroom teaching. Whichever funding route you take, it is advisable that you have at least three years of full-time funding agreed to in writing before starting a PhD. Don't be afraid to ask explicitly about funding and where it will come from. It is sadly common for people to start a PhD with limited funding, then for that funding to dry up after a year or two so that they have to drop out. It is better to defer your PhD application for a year and to take that time to secure full funding than to jump straight into the PhD without a firm funding plan in place. Is your PhD project right for you? Sometimes people can get caught up in the idea of doing a PhD without really thinking about whether they should study the particular project they have chosen. There are generally two ways to choose a PhD project: either you apply for a specific role as a PhD student in an existing lab or group, in which case your project will be largely assigned to you by your supervisor, or you come up with your own project idea and submit this proposal to a grad school or department. The first path is safer in that it involves a project which has been chosen by people with a great deal of experience of PhDs and the field, so you can be confident that the project is likely realistically achievable and will contribute usefully to the field. The second path allows you to follow your own passions and to investigate your own ideas, but it is riskier because there is a greater chance that your project is too big to complete in a reasonable time frame, that your experiment might not work, or that the project might not be perceived as useful by others in the field. Take time to consider not only if you want to do a PhD in general, but also whether you want to do this specific PhD. Get as much feedback as you can from supervisors, friends doing PhDs, former teachers, mentors, and others about your project ideas and whether they would make an achievable and worthwhile project. And be realistic about your interests and strengths – if you've never liked statistics then doing a project heavily based on data analysis is unlikely to make you happy. Ideally your project should be a subject that inspires you and excites you, and to which you feel like you could make a valuable contribution with your ideas. Are the institution, department, and supervisors right for you? Another big factor in how your PhD will be is the environment in which you will work. Doing a PhD can be isolating and you need people around you who will support and help you out. Some academic groups are small and insular, others are large and diverse, but in either case you need to be among people who understand your work and will give you the time that you need. It's hard to know in advance if your supervisor will be difficult, but you can get a good idea by talking to other PhD students who have them as a supervisor and listening to their experiences. Many PhD students will be happy to share this information with you if you are thinking about applying to the same supervisor. Finally, don't feel as if your only opportunity to do a PhD is the program that you apply to first. You can apply to several programs at the same time and see which interview process excites you the most. Or you can wait until you find the right supervisor or institution which will make your experience so much better.
Here's a big question that's on the mind of many master's and undergraduate students: should I do a PhD? The idea of dedicating three years or more of your life to original research is both exciting and terrifying, and the experience can be either exhilarating or harrowing, or usually a mix of both. Today we'll take a look at some of the issues to consider when you are thinking about applying for a PhD program.
Using IELTS for Your Academic Career or Professional Registration
Why IELTS? The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a test that measures the language proficiency of people who want to work, study, or settle in English-speaking areas. An easy-to-use 9-band scale clearly identifies proficiency level, from non-user (band 1) through to expert (band 9). You can take the test at more than 1100 locations and there are 48 test dates a year. In most countries where English is the main language of communication, evidence of acceptable English language skills is a prerequisite for applicants and international graduates seeking professional registration. IELTS can give you the evidence you need when applying for a higher education program or professional organization. It’s important to note that the level of English language proficiency required by organisations varies by profession, by country and by jurisdiction. It’s up to the individual professional registration bodies to set their own requirements. However, employers in industries such as medicine, accounting, engineering, law, government, tourism and more may all ask for IELTS from potential employees, making IELTS Academic an important step along the way to the universty or professional organization of your choice. IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training – what’s the difference? For those planning to study in higher education or those seeking professional registration, IELTS Academic assesses whether you are ready to begin studying or training in an environment where English is the language used. You can discover who accepts IELTS using this great tool. IELTS Academic is different from IELTS General Training. The General Training test is ony for those who want to study or train in secondary education, study or train at a college or training centre below degree level, or who want to migrate to an English speaking country. IELTS Academic is for those who want to study higher eduation or join a professional organisation in an English-speaking country. While all test takers take the same Listening and Speaking tests, regardless of which version they take, the Reading and Writing tests differ in content, depending on whether you are taking IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training. Source: IELTS How can I prepare for IELTS? There are many great ways to prepare yourself for the test. Find out how with the British Council’s great tips and study techniques, take a look at some sample questions or take a free practice test online. How can I register for IELTS? Here is an easy how-to for booking your test - on your time and in your country. Ready to book? You can do so here and take the next step towards your new program or profession.
Do you want to study at a university at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, or join a professional organisation in an English-speaking country? Then IELTS Academic is designed for you.
Teaching abroad: challenges and advice for teaching at a university in a foreign country
The advantages of working abroad include learning new languages, experiencing novel professional environments and broadening your cultural and intellectual perspectives. Adjacent to these clear benefits are of course several challenges and obstacles that must be negotiated if the would be ‘global teacher’ is to appreciate and maximise their teaching experience fully. A quick Google scan reveals that for every positive experience there is seemingly a negative or challenging one. However, in this age of freedom of information in which research is rendered so effortlessly, there is no excuse for not being prepared when it comes to teaching abroad. There are a plethora of blogs and forums in which to discuss and discover personal testimonies of teachers who have taught abroad. These include details about specific institutions, cities and country profiles. Do not hesitate to contact people who are already there now to know what you are getting yourself into, and avoid being in a position where you find yourself lamenting “I wish someone would have given me some honest feedback about it before going”. Importantly, the greatest challenges in teaching in a foreign country often include everything that happens outside of the lecture theatre. Each country has its own bureaucratic systems (most of which have a seemingly frustrating character). So whether it is opening a bank account or filling out a medical form, there are many pitfalls that can be avoided by simply doing the research beforehand. Principally among these are work and accommodation contracts. Read carefully any documents you are given to sign as many teachers have been duped by fake organisations and dubious contracts. With some common sense and intelligent research such unfortunate situations can be avoided. It is also important to bear in mind that even in your native country, each university has its own specific character and teaching philosophy, so make sure that you are aware of these once you start teaching abroad. For instance, whilst in Australia it would have been entirely acceptable for me to give a lecture in front of 500 people whilst wearing flip-flops, that same attire would have been seriously frowned upon in South Africa. So make sure that you are aware of, and are meeting the regulations - both formal and informal - of your new institution. You can check an earlier INOMICS article, which is helpful in this regard, as albeit from a student perspective, it provides some general guidance. Whatever and wherever you want to teach, you will find a wealth of information online. Do not be afraid, there is no such thing as “being overly prepared”. Make sure that you are crystal clear where you want to go, how you will get there, what you want to do, and how and who is going to pay you. Teaching remains one of the rare professions where you can work your way around the world whilst developing professionally and personally, all the while living in new and exciting locations.
Each year, thousands of university teachers leave their native environments to go and teach and/or conduct academic research in a foreign country. Indeed, in this increasingly globalized world populated by a highly networked mobile workforce, there are seemingly unending possibilities, incentives and occasions to teach in a higher education institution in a foreign country. Gaining such experience is encouraged to the point where it is now even expected on your CV. Personally speaking, having taught on 3 continents, I can attest to the value of gaining such international experience. Even as a student in higher education, I fondly recall that my most interesting, passionate and captivating teachers were those who had benefited from a similarly international experience.
Proficiency Exams in French, German and Spanish: Top Language Certificates
The European Language Certificate (TELC) tests are the most widely recognized of all language exams, partially because they adhere to a clear and uniform structure. Regardless of which language you are being tested on, TELC scores are graded along the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), which ranges from A1 through C2, as you can see in the table below. In general, a minimum of B2 standing is required to study at university, while B1 is the minimum to begin work in a foreign language. A1 Beginner A2 Elementary B1 Intermediate B2 Upper Intermediate C1 Advanced C2 Proficient French Diplôme dEtudes en langue française (DELF) The DELF exam is offered at various levels along the CEFR scale. The test generally lasts about three hours and is divided into four sections: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, speaking and writing. The DELF can be taken at testing centers around the world. If you receive a score of B2 or above, this will qualify you for entrance into French universities. Diplôme approfondi de langue française (DALF) The DALF is similar in nature to the DELF, though the level of French used throughout the exam is higher. Additionally, an oral presentation must be prepared during the speaking component. It can also be taken at centers around the world. The DALF is aimed at individuals in the C1 to C2 range. If you pass the DALF, you will receive a certificate stating proficiency within this range, which will allow for entrance into French universities and show a level of fluency sufficient for most jobs. German Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Test DaF) The Test DaF is offered at testing centers around the world. It is standardized and consists of four sections: reading comprehension, listening comprehension, academic writing and oral expression. While the Test DaF roughly corresponds to the B2 to C1 level, it is scored along its own rubric and expressed in three levels, TDN 3, TDN 4 and TDN 5. Some German universities admit students with a score of TDN 3, and all universities recognize the score of TDN 4 or higher. Zertifikat Deutsch (ZD) This exam is roughly at a B1 level and is thus not generally recognized as sufficient for university studies. Many employers do accept the ZD, however, as evidence of sufficient German for certain positions. This test can be taken at centers all over the world; most commonly offered through the Goethe Institute. Spanish Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) The DELE exam is the official qualification offered through the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport in Spain. This comprehensive language test recognizes all the diverse variants of Spanish and is graded along the CEFR structure. DELE certificates are granted at each of the CEFR levels, though B2 is generally required for university entrance. If you are looking for a study program or job in a French, German or Spanish speaking country, take a look at the thousands of listings updated daily on INOMICS. Photo credit: rawpixel.com / Designed by Magnific (Free License)
If you are interested in working or studying in a French, German or Spanish speaking country, you will almost certainly need to provide proof of language skills. While exact requirements differ between institutions, there are certain exams that are more widely accepted than others. Following up on our recent post on English proficiency tests, in this post we will offer you an overview of the most respected language exams from around the globe for French, German and Spanish.
Recruitment Trends: Interviews with Top Employers
To find this piece and a range of other insights, click the button below to download the latest INOMICS handbook. ➲ Download the Handbook now! The IMF is perhaps the most well-known global financial regulator, with 2700 employees. Working on behalf of its 189 member countries, it aims to: ‘foster global monetary cooperation; secure financial stability; facilitate international trade; promote high employment and sustainable economic growth; and reduce poverty around the world’. The University of Barcelona, meanwhile, is regularly ranked within the top 150 universities in the world, and usually top in Spain, to work and study in, with almost 4000 academic faculty staff members and a particularly lauded economics department. The LMU is even bigger, with around 6000 academic staff and 8000 administrative and is regularly ranked within the top 50 universities in the world. We are excited to be able to share their specific insights as well as perceived global trends that graduates face year on year. Expectations and Environment Kalpana Kochhar emphasises that job interviews at the IMF tend to focus on ‘the ability of candidates to think on their feet, logically work through a response, and demonstrate a structured, practical approach’ over more theory-based thinking. This focus, it seems, is a key distinction between the institutions, as Jordi Roca Solanelles confirms: ‘we seek excellent teachers with strong research skills who contribute actively to teaching at graduate and undergraduate level and who will supervise current students in their research.’ Additionally, both Kochhar and Solanelles agree that having experience as a Teaching Assistant is of great use in furthering a student’s future career, setting them up nicely to take on teaching responsibilities in a postgrad role. The institutions offer widely different working environments, another big factor for a graduate to consider when approaching the job market. Solanelles, for instance, acknowledges the difficulties in creating a supportive working environment, when so much of the work expected involves ‘pressure to publish in high profile journals in order to progress in their career’ individually, adhering, in other words, to the “publish or perish” principle. Dr Englmaier however, argues there is a ‘great team spirit within an excellent research infrastructure, with the possibility to reach out to non-academic stakeholders’. In further contrast, employees at the IMF work in large teams on an international basis, the organisation boasting ‘the opportunity to combine academic work with practical policy work in a supportive, intellectually challenging environment’. Changing Tides Particularly intriguing are the changing demographics and trends in the job markets of the IMF and UB. Both recognize an increasingly diversified and international workplace especially over the last ten years. Interestingly, the IMF, perhaps because of its inherent international structure, do not feel the need to have ‘hard-coded diversity “quotas”’, stressing that the individual candidate’s skills and experiences are the primary concern. The UB meanwhile, acknowledge that while committed to an increasingly international teaching staff - and therefore research method - they have had to operate within ‘important budgetary constraints’ not having the luxury of the IMF’s funding. Nevertheless, Solanelles believes the ‘obtained returns have clearly outweighed the costs’. In the INOMICS 2018 Salary Report, we found that generally, worldwide, while the gender pay gap is closing, especially at Junior and Mid-level roles, the widest salary disparity remains between men and women in senior-level positions. There also seems to be a “glass ceiling” hindering women from accessing senior positions. The IMF, UB and LMU all have procedures in place to combat this. The IMF tells us they ‘calibrate salaries on entry to ensure gender neutrality’ and offer parental leave benefits to both genders. On the other hand, UB and LMU have a wage policy set by the Spanish and German governments respectively, meaning an ensured pay equality between genders within their academic institutions. It is important, therefore, to research factors such as employee rights or salaries when choosing your career path, to see what public regulations and measures are in force in prospective countries. Organisations such as EDGE, the global business certification standard for gender equality, for example, exist to ensure equal pay and treatment of genders in global corporations, such as the IMF, who are approved. ‘Many [women] hold high-level and influential positions within the IMF and outside’ Kochhar explains, herself a strong example. However, the representatives of the academic sector we spoke to recognise there is still a shortage of women at the faculty level, with Solanelles conceding ‘only 2 out of 10 full professors in Spanish Universities are women’. Dr Englmaier agrees, noting that ‘while we now have many more brilliant female students, so far this has not fed through to the faculty level’, implying workplace gender equality remains a long, hard struggle. Looking Forward Both Kochhar and Sollanelles agree that the job markets, in their respective areas, are expanding generally, meaning a wider range of opportunities are available to graduates now compared to a decade ago, following the 2008 financial crash - a trend that currently shows no signs of slowing down. There is a marked difference between them, however, when it comes to job prospects and salaries. Solanelles argues that the austerity measures in Europe resulted in ‘the introduction of wage freezes in academia over a prolonged period of time’. Simultaneously, retirement-aged staff are not being replaced so readily, ‘implying higher workloads for existing employees.’ That said, he is optimistic that the trends are changing for the positive, with a far more competitive job market widening the job prospects for teaching staff both inside and out of Spain. Given the IMF’s size, it is perhaps unsurprising they haven’t felt as much of an effect from the austerity measures as Solanelles refers to. In evidence, they have continued to offer positions to ‘between 20 to 30 graduating PhD economists each year’. They have noted also increased salaries and contracts for a diverse range of positions in: ‘academia; central banks and government; finance and other private sector companies; and international organisations’. This shows not only a huge array of choice, but also the option to “change track” along the way. Conclusion Broadly speaking, those better suited to working in academia are those more interested in teaching and publishing. Generally, such work is conducted individually, with one afforded a fair amount of freedom. In comparison, the IMF, perhaps indicative of conditions outside of academia, tends to offer its employees higher wages, increased networking opportunities and more varied work, often in a team setting. While all interviewees observe shifts in their respective workplace demographics, breaking down some barriers and gaining access to the top level, particularly for women, remains a hard and on-going challenge. That said, each institution is offering an increasingly diverse set of roles and jobs, making career choices for recent graduates all the more exciting. To find this interview and a range of other insights, click the button below to download the latest INOMICS handbook. ➲ Download the Handbook now!
We spoke to top hiring managers Kalpana Kochhar, Director of Human Resources Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Jordi Roca Solanelles, Head Manager of the University of Barcelona’s School of Economics (UB) and Professor Dr Florian Englmaier, Professor for Organisational Economics as the Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich (LMU), to discover what challenges economics post-graduates should expect from prospective careers in some of the biggest institutions around.
Work visas for the US (for academic & highly qualified professionals)
However, there can be some practical issues to consider regarding working in the US, in addition to finding a position. If you are not from that country yourself, then there can be some challenging legal and administrative requirements that you must meet in order to be eligible for a “green card” - the colloquial term for a permanent residency permit. The US is notoriously stringent about visa requirements, and the process of applying for and being awarded a visa can take months or even longer, so it's important to plan in advance and consider your visa status if you want to work in the US. Today we're covering the basics of knowledge that you'll need for applying for a visa as an academic or highly qualified professional. EB-2 visas If you have completed an “advanced degree” - that is, a master's degree or PhD in the sciences, arts, or business – then you are eligible to apply for an EB-2 visa. This is an application for permanent residency (the right to live and work in the US permanently) which is contingent on a job offer. If you new institution can extend to you a definite offer of work, then you can apply for this visa. However, there is a quota for the number of these visas which can be issued each year, so the application process can be competitive and is not guaranteed to be successful. EB-1 visas If you are a more senior academic, you may qualify for application for an EB-1 visa. To be eligible to apply for this visa, you must be an “outstanding professor or researcher” - which is defined as someone who is internationally recognised for work in their field and has outstanding academic achievements, as well as having at least three years of teaching experience. To prove yourself as an outstanding professor or researcher, you must submit evidence such as major prizes which you have won, membership of senior academic associations which require achievements for entry, or published materials in journals or books. In addition, you must have a job offer for a tenured or tenure-track position, or the equivalent research position. This is an extremely competitive and difficult to obtain visa, and as such is suited only to the most ambitious and outstanding of candidates. The Application Process In order to apply for an EB-2 visa, you will need a Labor Certification – that is, an assurance that you as an immigrant will not be displacing an equally qualified US worker. This is a step that is typically undertaken by your employer, who must demonstrate that there is not a suitable US candidate for the position offered to you. There is extensive documentation which your employer must provide in order to be successful in applying for the labor certification. However, most universities or institutions which employ senior academics have experience with visa applications and will support you in the application process. For EB-1 visa application, you do not need a labour certification. <11an>limit:2;categories:jobs|courses|conferences;countries:United States;disciplines:General Economics (JEL A)</11an> Retaining your Green Card If you are successful in obtaining a visa to work in the US, it's important to remember that you must meet certain requirements to retain it. If you move to another country to live permanently; if you remain outside of the US for more than one year at a time; or fail to file the correct tax returns, then your visa can be rescinded. So bear this in mind when you make travel plans or consider future career options. The visa process can be cumbersome, but the good news is that most institution will have experience with academic visa applications and will be able to support you in this.
If you're an academic looking to extend your career and find the right next position for you, many opportunities are available in Northern America. For postdocs and junior lecturers especially, it's important to be able to relocate to the best lab or department that you can for your work. For many disciplines, some of the world-leading institutions and researchers are based in the US, so many academics choose to spend some time working there in order to gain the best experience possible.
Work visas for Australia (for academic & highly qualified professionals)
There are opportunities for academics or researchers to work in exciting departments, and to appreciate the strength of Australian teaching in topics such as philosophy. But if you have graduated and are looking for a postdoc or other position, then you will need a visa to work. There are a variety of types of visa which are available to people who wish to move to Australia for work. For highly-skilled people like academics, choosing the correct category of visa to apply for can make acceptance of entry into Australia more likely. Below we offer a guide to some of the most relevant visa types for academics and researchers: SkillSelect Skillselect refers to an online program through which you can apply for recognition as a skilled worker. It is not a visa application, but a first step to acquiring a skilled worker visa. The advantage of this system is that it can be completed online, and will provide faster information than traditional pen and paper forms. You can also see online what skilled work is being sought in Australia (currently, there is a particular need for psychiatrists, midwives, and special education teachers, for example). You can also indicate whether you would be willing to live and work in regional Australia, which would improve the chances of your visa application being successful. You can also find a list of occupations which are considered skilled here. Sponsored or Nominated Work Visas If you have found a position in an Australian university or research institution which you wish to apply for, your potential employer may be able to secure a sponsored or nominated work visa for you. The employer must already by approved as a sponsor by the Australian government, but most universities and institutions should have this approval already. Sponsored visas can even be used to apply for permanent residence within Australia. However, it is important to note that only those who are under 50 years of age, and meet various requirements including English language skills and holding some qualifications, are eligible to apply for these sponsored visas. Skilled - Recognised Graduate Visa (for engineers) An alternative option if you do not yet have an offer of employment in Australia is a skilled recognised graduate visa. The idea is to allow the entrance of skilled graduates from fields which are in demand into Australia so that they may gain work experience in their fields. Currently, the focus is on attracting engineers into the country. So if you are a recent engineering graduate, then you can apply for this visa to spend up to 18 months in Australia gaining work experience. While using this visa, you can also apply for permanent residence in the country. Distinguished Talent Visas For those who have made exceptional strides in academia or research, they can apply for a distinguished talent visa. This is a permanent visa, allowing you to stay in Australia for as long as you wish. You must be nominated for this by a distinguished person or organisation in your field (they must have a national reputation), and the nominating body must be located in Australia or New Zealand. You must also submit a record of your achievements in your field, such as qualifications or awards, as well as references from other academics or researchers, and media items which cover your work. The expectation is that applicants should have an international standing; demonstrating extraordinary and remarkable abilities and showing a record of achievement which is likely to continue into the future. Thus this kind of visa is most suitable for professors or other senior academics. We hope that this helps you in your consideration of Australia as a potential location for you to work. For the information on UK visas for academics check our last article.
Australia is growing a reputation as a centre of academic excellence, with increasingly prominent universities both teaching and contributing to international research.
Work visas for the UK (for academic & highly qualified professionals)
The UK is a popular choice for postdocs and junior professors, as it has a large number of well-regarded research and teaching institutions. Whilst bachelor's and master's students can acquire student visas to allow them to study in the UK with relative ease, getting a visa for a job in the UK is somewhat more complex. For this reason, today we're sharing a guide to UK work visas for academic and highly qualified professionals. Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa This is a sub-category of visas for those who are known as leaders in their field; in science, the humanities, engineering, medicine, digital technology, or the arts. To apply for this visa, you first need to obtain endorsement from the UK Home Office as a leader or emerging leader in your field. In order to obtain endorsement, you must meet the following criteria: having been an active researcher in your field; holding a PhD or equivalent research experience; and supplying a letter of recommendation from an eminent person in your field who is a UK resident who is familiar with your work. To apply as a “potential” leader, you must be at an early stage in your career and have been awarded either a prestigious UK-based or international research fellowship. Your application can be further strengthened through membership of national academies, receiving prizes for your work, and supplying a written recommendation from a reputable UK research organisation. Once you have received this endorsement, you can proceed to applying for a Tier 1 visa. If awarded, such a visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 5 years and 4 months, but this visa can be extended for another 5 years if you wish to stay in the same field for your work. The visa does allow you to travel aboard and then return to the UK, and to bring family members with you to the UK. However, you will be ineligible for public funds such as jobseeker's allowance, income support or child tax credit. It's unlikely that someone qualified for a Tier 1 visa would need to rely on such government benefits, but it's worth remembering that you will need to leave aside more money for things like council tax or pension credits than you might expect. Tier 2 (General) visa For most people working in academia, a Tier 2 visa would be the most appropriate to apply for. These visas are ones which you apply for once you have been offered a job. They are open to those who have a bachelor's or master's degree, or equivalent, and are valid for three years, plus the possibility of extension. If you are already in the UK on a student visa, once you have graduated and you have a job offer, you may apply for this visa straight away (i.e. you do not have to leave the country and then apply for the visa, so you can move straight from university to a job). The job which you are offered must be a skilled job from a licensed sponsor employer. However, this should not be a problem as most academic jobs will be at institutions which are licensed and already have experience with visa applications. It's worth noting that, unlike Tier 1 and other visas, there is no limit to the number of students who can gain a Tier 2 visa. So your chances are better with this than with other tiers. Also useful information: doctoral students who have completed their studies in Britain are entitled to stay in the country for 12 months to search for skilled employment or to start their own business. So if you have just completed your PhD, you have some time to job hunt before you must apply for another visa. If you're interested in working in the UK, check out our website for the latest job and study opportunities, both in Britain and abroad as well as for education and professional advice.
If you are from outside of the EU, then you will need a visas to work in EU countries such as Britain.
Best Countries to Work in as an Academic: Research Findings
But while there is a growing pool of information about the corporate world, there is a distinct lack of research about the best places to work in the world of academia. The closest substitutes are the many university rankings published each year, but when choosing a workplace, reputation is not the onlyfactor that is important when making a decision, although it is one factor, as you’ll see in the report. Inspired by the feedback from our users, who represent a good core sample of the academic world globally, earlier this year we ran the “INOMICS Academic Institutions Survey”, where, among other questions, we asked the respondents about their experiences in their respective academic institutions. We grouped the results according to the countries and positions of survey participants (we are planning to release institution-related rankings in the near future. Meanwhile you can see individual reviews here). Figure 1. Countries rated by academics as best to work in Source: INOMICS Academic Institutions Report 2015 Today, we would like to share this insight with you! When reading, keep in mind that although the ranking is based on the personal experiences of the respondents, the aggregated results show clear trends. Therefore we hope that it will help you in your future career decisions as an (aspiring) academic! You can download the full report here. If you have any questions or suggestions concerning the report, please contact us at media@inomics.com
For people looking for a job in the private sector, there are numerous sources of information about best places to work, like Fortune Best Companies or Best Places to Work by Glassdoor to name just two.
The Benefits of Working Abroad – Why It Pays to Gain Experience Elsewhere
As globalization brings the world closer together, and more and more countries begin to offer visas to highly skilled workers, the possibilities for employment around the world continue to grow. Using international networks like INOMICS, you can search for job opportunities in countries around the globe in your field of interest. The question we want to tackle in this article is – once you’ve found a job abroad, what are the benefits of taking it? Language In today’s globalized and extremely competitive market, speaking multiple languages is a must for anyone looking to land a great job. Regardless of your field, being able to converse and engage with clients, partners or other colleagues in a second (or third or fourth) language benefits your brain and your company. According to a recent study, approximately 31% of executives speak two languages and 20% speak three, and the number of organizations specifically hiring multi-lingual applicants is growing rapidly. As this article in Forbes points out, working and living abroad offers the perfect opportunity to really immerse yourself in a foreign language and build specific vocabulary relevant to your field. Just remember that everyone struggles with language learning sometimes, so be persistent and the hard work will pay off! Salary Many companies offer workers higher salaries when they are willing to make a move abroad. As this article points out, most companies will also pay for your full move and even fund visits home. Even if you aren’t able to find a position abroad through a current employer, the opportunities for a boosted salary abroad are vast, and not just for workers coming from less to more developed countries. In many cases a move in the other direction can also be easy on your wallet – in terms of lower rents, lower cost of living and more money to put into your savings or retirement funds. Moreover, once you have worked abroad you will often be able to negotiate a higher salary upon your return as a result of the experience you have gained. Global Network Everyone knows how important networking is, and working abroad inevitably offers you the opportunity to greatly expand both your personal and professional networks. By connecting with people in your field from across the world, you can gain insight into ways of working and find opportunities that you would never have come across in your home country. Connections created amongst foreigners while abroad are often quite strong, since the shared experience of living elsewhere creates commonalities between potentially very different people. Fostering such a network can prove beneficial for many years after your return home (or your next step, wherever that may take you). Cultural Sensitivity Even if you’ve always thought of yourself as an open-minded, worldly person, the best way to put these characteristics to the test is to live abroad for an extended period of time. Living and working as a foreigner allows you to experience a new culture, including different sets of values, work ethics and ways of communicating. Having such an experience will help you gain perspective on the culture in which you’re living, while also expanding your understanding for others within your community back home. Recognizing that there is no one right way to do things, but rather many different paths available, can help you be a better leader in any situation. Being forced to adapt to new situations helps you become better at coping with stress, communicating with those different from you and taking the time to find the best solution regardless of the circumstances. This interesting blog post offers specific accounts of six women working in countries around the world, highlighting specific things they learned and detailing how the experience helped them grow. In addition to all of the reasons listed above, working abroad also offers many unforeseen benefits, including opportunities for personal growth that simply couldn’t be found in your home country. Bonus benefits such as traveling, trying new foods and making lasting international friendships make the experience worthwhile in and of itself, above and beyond the many benefits international work can have for your career.
In a previous post we delved into the topic of how studying abroad can help your future job prospects. Yet, whether or not you’ve spent time in other countries as a student, it can help your career to broaden your search parameters when looking for work later on. We’re not just talking about a semester or year spent volunteering in some remote part of the world (though that’s arguably quite a valuable experience as well) but rather about a serious career step that leads you to living and working in another country.
Work Visas for Foreign University Graduates in the EU
It is important to remember, however, that your country of origin can also affect the type of visa for which you are eligible. Please consult your embassy and the government website of the country in which you are interested in working in order to find detailed information about visa options available to you. France In France, there are a few options for non-EU international students who have earned at least a Master’s degree from an accredited institution. The visa most commonly granted to graduates is the APS (autorisation provisoire de séjour), which is valid for 12 months beyond the expiration date of the graduate’s student residence permit. The APS allows the recent graduate to work in any position up to 60% of an official workweek. Graduates who find a job related to their program of study and with a salary of at least one and a half times the national minimum wage can then request a new full-time employment visa. Recent university graduates can skip the APS visa and apply directly for a work permit if they are trained in one of 14 specified occupations, which include operators and engineers in fields such as woodworking, glassmaking, chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing and information systems production. Germany In June 2012, the German government overhauled various laws regarding residence and work permits, including Article 16, which previously granted graduates of German universities a 12-month job-seeking visa. As of August 1st, 2012, any graduate of a German university hailing from a non-EU country is now entitled to an 18 month visa of this sort, which allows graduates the opportunity to stay in Germany and look for a job upon graduation. Furthermore, this visa also dictates that university graduates should be viewed as equal to German nationals, meaning that no proof needs to be given showing that they are more qualified for the position than German applicants, which is normally the case. Once the 18-month period has passed, graduates of German universities are treated equally to other immigrants from their country of origin. This means that the graduate needs to apply for a regular work permit according to the type of job he or she has secured. Be it freelance, fixed-term or open-ended, the chances of university graduates being granted further work visas in Germany is quite high, as long as employment is found within 18 months after graduation. Spain There is no visa specifically designated for foreign graduates of Spanish universities. In general, any non-EU citizen interested in working in Spain must first have a job. The employer applies for a work and residence permit, and once this is granted then the individual can apply for a work visa. Unlike in many other EU countries, a permit and visa are not the same thing. The duration of a work visa is tied to the length of the applicant’s job contract, and can thus vary widely. Be sure to contact the Spanish embassy in your country or take a look at the Spanish government website for detailed information. Spain maintains many bilateral partnerships with diverse countries around the world, making the attainment of a residence and work permit somewhat easier for citizens of various countries, including many across Latin America. Be sure to consult your embassy and read about the laws regarding citizens from your country of origin before planning a move to Spain. The United Kingdom Until April 2012, the UK offered foreign university graduates an automatic 12-month work and job-seeking visa, but unfortunately this is no longer the case. Now, foreign graduates of UK universities have a few options, though they are far more restrictive than the previous visa scheme. Recent graduates of UK universities can apply for a Tier 2 visa if they have a concrete job offer, provided that their future employer is a licensed sponsor and the job salary meets the sector-specific criteria laid out by the UK government. These visas generally allow you to stay in the UK for between 3 and 5 years. Alternately, recent graduates can leave the country and apply to return on a Tier 5 visa, often called the temporary worker visa. This visa also requires sponsorship and is only valid for between 12 and 24 months. Finally, a Tier 1 visa is available to writers, composers, artists, self-employed lawyers and “Highly Skilled Migrants” who prove their qualifications using the UK point-based system. However, switching from a student visa to a Tier 1 visa is difficult and often not possible. For detailed information about whether this option is available to you, please consult the UK government website. If you’re still unsure of exactly where you’d like to study or work, head to INOMICS to find hundreds of great educational and career opportunities in each of these countries. Photo credit: Charles Clegg
With student mobility continually on the rise, the number of foreign students earning degrees in Europe is ever increasing. Yet, the long-term visa opportunities for such graduates are not equal across the European Union. With immigration laws changing regularly, sometimes it can be difficult to know exactly what to expect in a given country. In this post, we offer you updated information about the types of work visas available to university graduates in the most popular European destination countries for foreign students: France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom.
Summer Internships in Economics and Finance 2013
Internships differ greatly according to discipline as well as type. For Bachelor’s students or those with little to no work experience, they can be a great first step into the working world. For anyone with a little more experience under their belt, internships are a good way to directly engage in a field of future employment, or to fill a gap between jobs. For many econ and finance students, interning in a bank is a terrific way to gain experience and test out a potential career path. Numerous central banks offer high-level internships for graduate students, for instance the Central Bank of Ireland, the Bank of Canada or Deutsche Bundesbank. If you are interested in development work, banks such as the Asian Development Bank and the Development Bank of Latin America also offer structured internships for graduate students hoping to gain relevant work experience. If you are an economics or finance student but not interested in working in a bank, there are still plenty of other options for top-notch internships. For instance, think tanks post open positions on a regular basis and are perfect places to gain experience in economic policy analysis and other areas. In Europe, institutions such as Bruegel, the Rimini Centre for Economics Analysis, TESEV or the European Policy Centre are all great options. For lists of other top think tanks in Europe, the U.S. and Latin America, take a look at our series of blog posts dedicated to that subject. Beyond banks and think tanks, many large firms in the private sector also offer internships. Companies such as PwC, Deloitte, KPMG and Ernst & Young all have offices in cities across the world, creating diverse opportunities for students and young professionals. If you’ve interned in the past, please leave a review of the institution where you worked on the INOMICS website and share your experience with future interns! Photo credit: Paul Watson
Last year, we posted an article titled “Internships in Economics – Lessons from an Economist,” which offered useful advice about the importance of internships and how to find what you’re looking for. Now, as spring is flying by and summer is just around the corner, we know that many of you are in the process of finding a summer internship. In this post, we’ll highlight a few specific internships and delve into the many great places to intern for anyone interested in economics and finance.
Looking at the findings of the INOMICS Job Market Report (which is available for free download here) we clearly see difference in wage levels across academics in different part of the world. This post is dedicated to Italy, the country with one of the lowest reported salaries in Europe (followed only by Spain). As can be seen from the graph, the salaries are not very high in the beginning of the path and although they increase with advancements (22% increase between positions on average), Full Professors earn 55,000 US$ per year on average. According to the INOMICS Job Market Report – Italy, the first significant increase in salary happens after working for 3 years (+70% on average), and then another 72% on average is added when you reach the level of 5 years of experience. Such relatively low reported salaries can be explained by different factors, including, among others, the young age of the respondents (65% are below 34 years old). In order to get more information about the Job Market in Italy and also see the methodology, you can download the full report here.
Many believe that once one decides to follow an academic career path there is no way out. Working at a university is not only said to bring you respect and stability, but also a gradually increasing income. How high the latter might get obviously depends on many factors, such as your qualifications and the institution you graduated from, as well as the country where you are teaching.
Life as an Economist in France - Salary and Working Conditions
French President Francois Hollande’s strategies for moving the country back towards a growth economy have diverged from his party’s platform, however, being met with varying levels of skepticism. Hollande has promoted both tax and public spending cuts in the name of stimulating job growth. He claims that he will go ahead with these planned economic reforms despite poor results for his party in Sunday’s elections. One outspoken critic of Hollande’s policies over the past years has been French economist Thomas Piketty, of the Paris School of Economics. While already well known in France, the recent publication of his book, “Capital in the 21st Century,” has cast Piketty squarely in the international spotlight. Though of course not every economist is likely to earn such esteem as Thomas Piketty, France seems to be a desirable country to set up shop as an academic or analyst, despite (or perhaps because of?) ongoing economic turbulence and political uncertainty. Amongst the economists who responded to the Economics Job Market Report 2013: France published earlier this year, 52% said they’d come to France from another country, meaning France a relatively high percentage of foreign economists. Even in the current economy, salaries amongst economists working in France are fairly competitive, particularly for those with more than three years of experience. According survey respondents, Full Professors earn an average of $75,000 USD per year, while Analysts earn about $73,000. Salary was listed as only the fifth most important factor when choosing a place of employment, however, with friendly working environment, time to conduct research, flexible working hours and institutional reputation topping the list. Thus, it may not be the salary that’s drawing economists to France, but rather the working atmosphere itself. Whatever the conditions that are prompting economists to seek employment in France, well-known professionals like Thomas Piketty make it clear that it’s possible to make them work in your favor. More details on the results and methodology of the Economics Job Market Report can be found on the INOMICS site.
While it was the UMP, France’s conservative opposition party, that won the majority of votes in Sunday’s first round of town hall elections in France, the far-right Front National also made decisive gains, particularly in areas that used to be bastions of the left wing. The ongoing difficulties in the French economy are often cited as one of the key reasons for this redrawing of the political landscape and the losses for the ruling Socialist Party.
Salaries of Spanish Economists in the Crisis
In fact, around 78% of economists in Spain are foreigners. The top reasons they cite for seeking employment in the Iberian country flexible working hours, balance between work and personal life and opportunities for development of their own research studies. Despite being highly relevant factors, their qualitative nature leaves out points of a more quantitative nature, such as salary. Seemingly, despite the economic crisis, Spain continues to attract foreign economists. Given the importance of wages in making choices about professional life, we decided to present the average income of economists in Spain, according to their positions. Compared with other European countries, the level of wages of Spanish economists is low. Around 80% of the employed economist population earns less than $55,000 a year; however this data is based on studies with a sample of mostly young economists with limited advanced studies and work experience. Moreover, as is clear from the graph, positions of full professor and analyst/economist are well paid in the Iberian country, while researchers and PhD candidates do not receive high salaries (more information available in the full Spanish report here) In Spain, work experience and professional education have a strong impact on salary. Citing an example, the income of highly skilled and experienced analysts/economists reflect those of their colleagues in countries like Germany and UK. Based on this observation, and according to other information sources, the situation in the Eurozone particularly affects young professionals in the region, while senior economists find in Mediterranean climates more pleasant working conditions with similar incomes to their countries of origin.
Despite the uncertain outlook for the labour market in the Iberian region, the percentage of foreigners working or studying in Spanish institutions is higher than in other countries like Germany or United Kingdom (for more information access reports from other regions here). Many of these economists study or work at one of the numerous highly ranked institutions found in Spain, such as the Barcelona Graduate School of Economics or the University of Barcelona.
Germany vs. Switzerland: Salaries of Economists & Professors in Comparison
This week we decided to look at salaries for Economists in Germany and Switzerland, and see if there is a significant difference between the two nations. As can be clearly observed in the graph, average salaries in Switzerland are higher than those in Germany for every position, both in academia and in the private sector (Analyst/Economist). The trend becomes less extreme with experience gained and at higher seniority levels: the wage differential between Full Professors in the two countries is about 20%, while salaries for a Teaching Assistant in Switzerland are more than double that of identical positions in Germany. Naturally, one has to account for different cost of living, but the gap is quite significant. It can also be observed that the wage increase in Germany is steeper than that in Switzerland: salary in the beginning of an economist’s career path is relatively low, but it triples over time. It shall be noted here that the greatest proportion of economists earning more than €73,000 (the higher salary bracket in the Survey) are employed as Full Professors or Analysts/Economists, which is why the average number contains a plus sign. The data for these findings was collected in the Economics Job Market Survey 2013, conducted by INOMICS. Other findings and the methodology of the survey can be found in the full version of each report, which are available for free download on the INOMICS site.
There are many factors affecting one’s decision when choosing a job, and as the INOMICS Economics Job Market Report showed last year, a friendly working environment, flexible working hours and time to conduct one’s own research seem to be the top three priorities worldwide. Salaries are rated fifth, but as we all know, expected remuneration can easily affect one’s career choice.
As shown earlier in our post “How Much Econ Professors Earn? Salaries in Academia by Country”, the UK is on the list of countries that remunerate their economists quite well. As can be seen in the graph above, entry-level academic positions, such as PhD Candidate, Researcher or Post Doc, tend to pay less than 50,000 US$ per year, though this number is still significantly higher than in many other countries and regions. Salaries for Professors start, on average, with 61,000 US$ per year for Assistant positions, and go above 95,000 US$ per year for Full Professorship positions. However, there are of course many factors influencing the salary an economist might earn, including years of experience, the highest degree obtained and so on. Our findings show that salaries are strongly correlated with one’s highest degree, and having a PhD determines a stable increase in the average pay. More details on the findings and methodology of the survey can be found in the full version of the report, which is available for free download on the INOMICS site.
On Wednesday, January 29, INOMICS released the Economics Job Market Report 2013 (UK and Ireland). This report, based on the findings of the Economics Job Market Survey conducted in 2013, introduces the reader to various aspects of the job market in economics, business and finance, concentrating primarily on the academic field.