A Must-Read for Returning Overseas Graduates: Key Points to Know

What criteria determine the graduation year for returning overseas graduates? It is often said that campus recruitment is for fresh graduates. So, which year's fresh graduate status do returning overseas students fall into? Some returning students have heard that returning overseas students can retain their fresh graduate status for two years. Is this true?

Returning Overseas Students: Which Year's Fresh Graduates Are You?

First and foremost, it's important to clarify that there is no such thing as "fresh graduates" for overseas students!

In many Southeast Asian countries, the term “fresh graduate” is often used specifically for domestic graduates as per national regulations. For example, in the Philippines, the government has specific policies for returning overseas Filipino students. The status of these returning students, whether fresh graduates or not, is determined by the educational institution and does not fall under a three-party agreement system. This is similar to many other countries in Southeast Asia.

Therefore, if you want to know whether you should participate in campus recruitment, the most accurate method is to check the official recruitment information on the employer's website. As long as your graduation date meets the requirements, you can apply.

Returning Overseas Students: What Determines Your Graduation Year?

There were may questions surrounding the question of which graduation year you belong to, and this is what we wil be delving into today.

For example:

"I started my program in Fall 2022, and the course dates on my offer letter were from October 2022 to September 2023. Should I participate in the 2023 autumn recruitment?"

"Our program's exam board will be in November this year. Does that make me a graduate for next year? But autumn recruitment is usually conducted in advance. Should I participate this year or next year?"

"I received my diploma in December 2022. Should I be considered a graduate for the class of 2022 or 2023?"

"I completed my courses and returned to my home country in 2022, but I received my diploma in 2023. Which class should I be classified into?"

"My school sent my diploma before the New Year in 2023, but I only received it in 2022. Which graduation year do I belong to?"

Domestic Graduates

To determine your graduation year, you only need to know the year you graduated. For instance, students who graduated in July 2022 belong to the class of 2022.

Returning Overseas Students

The graduation times for returning overseas students can vary significantly by country. Furthermore, there are different enrollment periods, spring and fall, as well as variations in academic programs and diploma issuance timelines. This can make things seem complicated!

However, it doesn't have to be this complicated! There's one straightforward standard that can resolve this issue: graduation time is determined by the date on your degree certificate.

On this note, it must be emphasize that after receiving your degree certificate, you should definitely proceed with degree and diploma authentication. This authentication is highly regarded by major domestic companies because it is the only official certification that can verify the authenticity and validity of your overseas education.

Tips for Returning Overseas Students

Understanding the Job Market

Before you start applying for jobs, you need to understand the current job market trends in your country and what industries are booming. You can use online resources, such as job boards, career websites, and industry reports, to get an overview of the employment situation and the skill demand. You can also network with people who are working in your field of interest and get their insights and advice.

Some of the factors that may affect the job market are:

• Economic growth: The overall economic performance of your country may influence the availability and quality of jobs. For example, if your country is experiencing a recession or a slowdown, there may be fewer job openings or lower salaries. On the other hand, if your country is enjoying a boom or a recovery, there may be more job opportunities or higher wages.

• Industry trends: The development and innovation of different industries may create new jobs or eliminate old ones. For example, if your country is investing in renewable energy or digital transformation, there may be more demand for engineers, technicians, or programmers. On the other hand, if your country is facing environmental or social issues, there may be less demand for tourism or entertainment workers.

• Competition: The level of competition for jobs may vary depending on the supply and demand of talent. For example, if your country has a large pool of qualified workers or a high influx of immigrants, there may be more competition for jobs. On the other hand, if your country has a shortage of skilled workers or a low population growth, there may be less competition for jobs.

Leveraging Your International Experience

As an overseas graduate, you have a unique advantage over local graduates: your international experience. You have gained valuable skills and qualities that can make you stand out from the crowd and impress potential employers. Some of these skills and qualities are:

• Language proficiency: Being able to speak more than one language can open up more opportunities for you in the globalized world. You can communicate effectively with diverse clients, partners, and colleagues. You can also access more information and resources that are available in different languages.

• Cultural awareness: Being exposed to different cultures can broaden your perspective and enhance your creativity. You can appreciate and respect different values, beliefs, and customs. You can also adapt to different situations and environments with ease.

• Adaptability: Being able to cope with changes and challenges can demonstrate your resilience and flexibility. You can handle stress and uncertainty with confidence. You can also learn new skills and knowledge quickly and efficiently.

• Problem-solving: Being able to find solutions to problems can show your analytical and critical thinking skills. You can identify and evaluate different options and alternatives. You can also implement and monitor the best solution effectively.

To leverage your international experience, you need to showcase these skills and qualities in your resume, cover letter, portfolio, and interview. You need to provide specific examples of how you have used these skills and qualities in your previous roles or projects abroad. You also need to explain how these skills and qualities can benefit the company or the role that you are applying for.

In a Nutshell 

In the competitive world of job-seeking for returning overseas graduates, clarity about your graduation year and the ability to navigate the local job market are essential. Your international experience is a valuable asset that sets you apart. By understanding your graduation year and leveraging your skills, you can embark on a successful career journey in your home country. Best of luck in securing the job you desire!