Working part-time can be a great way to help you afford the living costs in the UK and provide you with valuable work experience in your field of study. 

If you hold a Tier 4 (General) or Tier 4 (Child) visa, you are allowed to work during your studies and vacations if you: 

  • Are enrolled in a publicly funded higher education institution. 

  • Are participating in a short-term study abroad program with an overseas higher education institution. 

  • Are 16 years old or older. 

  • Are enrolled in a course at NQF level 6 (degree level) and higher. 

However, there may be limits on the type of work you can do and your working hours. For further information, you can check the website of the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA). 

*You should not engage in employment if your passport sticker or ID card indicates 'No Work' or 'Work Prohibited', as this would violate your immigration terms, which is against the regulations in the UK. 

What types of jobs can you find in the UK for students?

The United Kingdom offers a wide array of job opportunities for students looking to earn some extra income while studying. Here are some common types of jobs you might find: 

  • Retail Assistant: Working in shops, supermarkets, or boutiques. 

  • Call Centre Representative: Handling customer inquiries over the phone. 

  • Receptionist: Greeting visitors and managing appointments. 

  • Private Tutor: Teaching subjects you're great at to other students. 

  • Research Assistant: Assisting professors or researchers with projects. 

These are just a few examples, while the availability of jobs can vary depending on your location within the UK, the time of year and the demand in different industries. 

Finding part-time jobs

When searching for part-time jobs in the UK as a student, there are several avenues you can explore: 

  • University careers services: Many universities have dedicated career centres that offer job listings, CV help and career advice. 

  • Online job portals: Websites such as Indeed, Reed, and Totaljobs often list part-time positions suitable for students. 

  • Student unions: Your university's student union may have job boards or resources specifically for student employment. 

  • Local businesses: You may visit shops, cafes, restaurants, and other businesses in your area to inquire about job openings. 

Working after graduation

If you plan to continue working in the UK after completing your studies, you'll need to obtain a new visa or apply for an extension to your current visa. 

The most frequent work visas for international students are Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur), Tier 2 (General), and Tier 5 (Temporary Worker). You can check your eligibility for these visas, as well as learn how to apply for them, on the UK Government website. 

How much can a student earn in the UK while studying?

The amount a student can earn while studying in the UK can vary based on several factors, including the type of work, location, and hours worked. The national minimum wage rate in the UK for students aged 18 to 20 is £8.60 per hour, and over 23 years is £11.44 per hour. 

It's important to note that some jobs may offer higher pay rates depending on the industry, required skills and level of responsibility. 

Types of jobs you're not allowed to do as an international student

As an international student studying in the UK, there are certain restrictions on the types of work you can undertake. Here are some examples of jobs you are not permitted to do: 

  • Full-time permanent work: You cannot work in a full-time, permanent position unless you have a Tier 2 (General) visa or another appropriate work visa. 

  • Self-employment: Starting your own business without the necessary permissions is not allowed. 

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