| Updated On - Nov 11, 2024
Working while studying in UK is the most effective approach for international students to manage their daily living expenses in the UK. The monthly cost of living in UK ranges between GBP 1100 to GBP 1400 (98,000 lakhs to 1,21,000 lakhs) depending on the choice of place and other factors. Having a part-time job can help greatly for students to cover basics like rent, food, and travel, making it easier to stay on budget.
Additionally, working doesn’t just support you financially but also gives the students an opportunity to build useful Communication skills, meet new people and network, and in developing time management skill. Whether you’re helping out on campus, working at a nearby café, or doing a job related to your studies, it’s a great way to get more out of your time in the UK, both personally and professionally.
Also Check - Student Guide to Study in UK
Eligibility Criteria for Working in UK
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Visa Type Requirement | Students must have a Tier 4 Student Visa to work while studying. This visa allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. |
| Minimum Age | Students need to be at least 16 years old to work in most jobs, though some roles, like working in bars, may require students to be 18 or older. |
| National Insurance (NI) Number | To work legally, students must have a National Insurance (NI) number for tax purposes. Students can apply for an NI number if they don’t already have one. |
| Right-to-Work Documentation | Students need to show their passport or visa documentation to confirm their eligibility to work while studying in the UK. |
| English Proficiency | A good command of English is necessary for many roles, especially customer-facing jobs where students interact directly with customers or clients. |
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Types of Jobs Students can Find in The UK
International students in the UK can explore a variety of jobs both on-campus and off-campus, offering flexibility and a chance to gain practical experience. On-campus jobs are convenient for balancing with classes, while off-campus jobs provide a different environment and often offer evening or weekend shifts.
On-Campus Work
On-campus work includes roles students can take within their university, These jobs are flexible with class schedules and allow students to work in a familiar environment. Some of the popular on campus jobs that international students can find are :
| Job | Average Pay per Hour (in GBP) | Average Pay per Hour (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| IT Support | £13.60 | ₹1,482.40 |
| Student Content Creator | £14.10 | ₹1,536.90 |
| Library Worker | £9.90 | ₹1,079.10 |
| Admin Assistant | £10.26 | ₹1,118.34 |
| Resident Assistant | £10.00 | ₹1,090.00 |
| Student Ambassador | £10.33 | ₹1,125.97 |
| Teaching Assistantship | £9.66 | ₹1,053.54 |
Off-Campus Work
Off-campus work includes roles outside the university, These jobs offer a change of pace from campus life and often have weekend or evening shifts. A list of popular off campus jobs that international students can find are :
| Job Roles | Average Pay per Hour (in GBP) | Average Pay per Hour (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Retail Outlets | £8.50 | ₹926.50 |
| Cashier | £9.00 | ₹981.00 |
| Waiter/Waitress | £14.00 | ₹1,526.00 |
| Delivery Boy | £5.00 | ₹545.00 |
| Customer Service | £10.00 | ₹1,090.00 |
| Clerk | £13.00 | ₹1,417.00 |
| Social Media Assistant | £10.51 | ₹1,146.59 |
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Benefits of Working While Studying in the UK
Understanding UK Student Visa Work Restrictions
A quick guide for understanding the work restrictions for international students on a Student visa in the UK are listed below:
- Term-Time Work Limitations:International students on a Student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time if enrolled in a degree-level course or higher, and 10 hours per week for courses below degree level.
- Full-Time Work During Holidays: Students are allowed to work full-time during official university holiday periods, such as summer, winter, and spring breaks.
- National Insurance (NI) and Taxes: To work legally, students need a National Insurance (NI) number for tax purposes, which can be applied for after arrival in the UK.
- Prohibited Job Types: Certain job roles are restricted for international students on a Student visa, such as:
- Self-employment
- Freelancing
- Contract work
- Professional sports or coaching
- Full-time permanent roles
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Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students in the UK
Some of the popular Part-Time job in UK with their hourly pay scale are listed below:
| Job | Average Pay/Hour (in £) | Average Pay/Hour (in ₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Server | £9.91 | ₹1,046 |
| Teaching Assistant | £15.14 | ₹1,599 |
| Tutor | £15.22 | ₹1,607 |
| Dog Walker | £20.42 | ₹2,157 |
| Retail Worker | £8.80 | ₹929 |
| Translator | £22.14 | ₹2,338 |
| Research Assistant | £15.44 | ₹1,631 |
| Hotel Receptionist | £8.74 | ₹923 |
| Barista | £8.52 | ₹900 |
| Cook | £9.10 | ₹961 |
Note - It must be noted by students that the pay per hour for part-time jobs in the UK are generally 1.5 times higher for night shifts than the day shifts.
Also Check - Job Opportunities in UK for Indian Students
Tips for Balancing Work and Study
Some of the important things to keep in mind for Balancing Work and Study in the UK as an International Student are:
- Stick to the legal work hour limits (20 hours per week during term for degree-level students) to avoid getting in trouble with your visa.
- Make your studies the top priority. Schedule work around classes, assignments, and exams.
- Plan out study time, work hours, and personal time each week. Using a planner or digital calendar can help you stay organized.
- Look for jobs with flexible hours, such as on-campus roles or part-time retail positions, that can adjust to your study schedule.
- Let your employer know when you’re available, and don’t be afraid to say no to extra shifts during exams or project deadlines.
- Prioritize sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet to keep your energy up for both study and work.
- Set a budget and track expenses to manage income from your part-time work effectively.
In short, working while studying in the UK is a fantastic way to build your skills and improve your job prospects after graduation. It gives you practical experience to add to your CV, making you stand out to future employers, and helps you develop a strong LinkedIn profile and cover letters. By balancing work and study, you’re not only supporting yourself financially but also setting yourself up for a successful career.
Also Check: LOR Sample for UK
FAQs
Ques Can international students work multiple part-time jobs at the same time in the UK?
Ans Yes, students can hold multiple part-time jobs as long as they don’t exceed the total weekly hour limit (usually 20 hours during term time).
Ques Is it possible to work remotely for an overseas employer while studying in the UK?
Ans No, most student visas restrict remote work for overseas companies, as this often falls under self-employment or freelance work, which is generally prohibited.
Ques Are there any types of jobs that don’t count towards my 20-hour weekly limit?
Ans Work experience directly related to your course and required as part of your curriculum may not count, but check with your university to confirm.
Ques What happens if I accidentally exceed my working hours?
Ans Exceeding hours can lead to visa penalties or issues with future visas. If this happens, student is advised to contact your university’s international office immediately for assistance.
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