Canadian, expired student visa Help! What options do I have?

Hello,

I obtained a Student visa to begin study in September 2009. The expiry was September 2011.

I stayed in the UK until August 2010 and returned home to Canada after doing some traveling. I finished my courses but did not technically graduate until November 2010.

In January, I returned to the UK from Canada. The border agent told me my visa is expired since I am finished my program (regardless of the 2011 date written on it). I had planned to apply for the post-study visa but am now technically in the country as a visitor.

I would like to stay in the UK but am wondering if that is no longer a possibility for me. I am a Canadian citizen. Can I still apply for the post-study even though I re-entered on an expired student visa, or do I have to go the commonwealth route, or do I have no options at all?

Thanks very much. The situation is confusing to me.

If you were admitted as a visitor, then you will need to return to Canada.

From there, if eligible, you may apply for PSW. Or, you may apply under UK ancestry.