Job Description Rewrite: International Student Adviser, University of Aberdeen

About the Job

The University of Aberdeen is looking to hire an International Student Adviser to play a pivotal role in supporting the experiences of its international student community. This position is based within the Directorate of People, which is committed to enhancing the experience of students from across the globe. The successful candidate will be responsible for advising international students on visa applications and compliance with UK immigration laws, ensuring students are legally equipped to live and study in the UK.

This role covers a student’s entire journey, from pre-arrival preparation to post-study guidance, and requires collaboration with various University departments to maintain the University’s ability to sponsor international students. Additionally, you will provide one-on-one guidance, deliver presentations to staff and students, and assist in ensuring immigration compliance across the institution.

If you are passionate about international education, have expertise in immigration matters, and enjoy working in a student-facing role, this opportunity would allow you to make a meaningful contribution in a vibrant and multicultural academic setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide personalised advice to international students on UK visa applications via the Student Route.
• Deliver proactive and reactive immigration advice in one-on-one and group settings.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the University to ensure compliance with UK Home Office regulations and support the University’s licence to sponsor international students.
• Offer support to students through their academic journey, from pre-arrival to post-study options.
• Contribute to presentations, student workshops, and guidance materials.
• Manage inquiries related to immigration advice while maintaining up-to-date knowledge of UK immigration policies.

Ideal Candidate

The University is looking for someone who brings:

• Experience supporting students, ideally within a Higher Education context.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• A genuine passion for working with international students and helping them navigate their academic and cultural transition to the UK.
• A solid understanding of, or prior experience with, the UK immigration system and Student Route policies.

Salary & Contract

• Salary: Grade 6, £38,784 – £46,049 per annum (dependent on qualifications and experience).
• Type of contract: Permanent (Substantive).

Guidance for International Applicants

If you have worked in the international education sector, particularly in roles providing immigration advice to students, this position could provide an excellent opportunity to expand your career. However, please note that this position does not meet the minimum requirements for a Skilled Worker visa, and the University cannot provide sponsorship for this role. Therefore, you must already have the legal right to work in the UK in order to apply.

To ensure your application stands out:

1. Highlight Experience with International Students: Clearly showcase your skills and experience in supporting international students, particularly with understanding immigration laws, processes, and compliance.
2. Demonstrate Cultural Awareness: Include examples of how you have worked within diverse, multicultural environments and supported international initiatives in education.
3. Showcase Proactive Problem-Solving Skills: Be sure to outline situations where you took the initiative to resolve complex situations involving students or visa issues.

The UK immigration system is fast-evolving, and the University values candidates who can adapt to change and maintain up-to-date knowledge of current laws.

How to Apply

To apply, complete the online application by clicking the ‘Apply’ button on the University’s careers webpage.

• Informal Enquiries: Contact Sharon Cassidy, Head of International Advice and Compliance, at sharon.cassidy@abdn.ac.uk for an informal discussion about the role.
• Closing Date: Applications must be submitted no later than 5th January 2026.

The University of Aberdeen values diversity and strongly encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. If you’re ready to champion the global student community and help create a welcoming and informed environment for international students, we’d love to hear from you!

Job Reference Number: IAC005A