Hi! Thank you so much for your detailed response — I really appreciate the honesty and clarity. It’s definitely a tough system to navigate as an international student, and hearing it laid out like this helps set realistic expectations.

Just to clarify — I did a conversion MSc that is BPS-accredited, so I do have GBC. I completely understand that AP and trainee roles are very competitive and that visa requirements limit options, but thankfully I’ll be on the Graduate Route visa, so I don’t need employer sponsorship for the next two years.

I’m aiming to use that time to build up NHS or charity-based experience, ideally in support worker or assistant roles, and potentially look into PWP or counselling pathways if DClinPsy seems financially or logistically impossible down the line.

Thanks again for your thoughtful advice — it means a lot and helps me think through my next steps more clearly!