Student Jobs in the UK for International Students
Explore part-time job regulations, opportunities, and average wages for international students in the UK. Learn about work rights, popular student jobs, and how to balance study with employment.
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UK Work Regulations for International Students
International students in the UK have specific work rights designed to balance educational priorities with employment opportunities. Understanding these regulations is crucial to maintaining legal compliance and avoiding visa complications. The rules vary based on your course level, type of institution, and the academic calendar.
For degree-level students (RQF 6 and above): You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time if you're studying at a UK higher education institution on the Student Route visa.
For below degree-level students: You can work up to 10 hours per week during term time if you're studying a course below RQF level 6.
For language center or private college students: Working rights may be more restricted. Always check your visa conditions.
During official vacation periods: Most students can work full-time during officially recognized university breaks.
No self-employment or business ownership: Student visa holders cannot be self-employed, work as a freelancer, or set up a business in the UK.
No permanent full-time positions: You cannot fill a permanent full-time vacancy, even during vacation periods.
No professional sports: Working as a professional sportsperson is generally prohibited.
No entertainment jobs: Working as an entertainer is generally not permitted.
The definition of "term time" and "vacation time" can vary between institutions and courses. Generally:
Undergraduate & Taught Masters
- Term dates are clearly defined by your institution
- Christmas, Easter, and Summer breaks are typically considered vacation periods
- Reading weeks are generally considered term time
PhD & Research Students
- Often have year-round study with no official vacation periods
- Must agree vacation time with supervisors in advance
- Typically entitled to around 6-8 weeks of vacation per year
Important Note
International students working in the UK generally need a National Insurance Number (NIN). This is a unique identifier for the UK tax and benefits system:
How to Apply for a NIN:
- Call the NIN application line: 0800 141 2075 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm)
- You may need to attend an identity verification interview
- Bring your passport, BRP card, and proof of address to the interview
- You'll receive your NIN by post within 6-8 weeks
Note: You can start working before you receive your NIN, but you must inform your employer that you've applied for one.
Working Hours Compliance
Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students
The UK employment landscape offers a wide range of part-time opportunities for international students, with options available both on and off campus. These roles not only provide financial support but also offer valuable work experience and help develop transferable skills that enhance your CV. Below, we explore popular job sectors, typical responsibilities, and average pay rates.
Library Assistant
Shelving books, managing desk services, assisting students
Pay: £10.50-£12.00/hour
Student Ambassador
Campus tours, open days, supporting events
Pay: £11.00-£13.00/hour
Research Assistant
Lab work, data collection, literature reviews
Pay: £11.50-£14.00/hour
Barista/Server
Preparing drinks, taking orders, customer service
Pay: £10.50-£11.75/hour + tips
Retail Sales Assistant
Customer assistance, stocking shelves, handling payments
Pay: £10.42-£11.50/hour
Bar Staff
Serving drinks, restocking, maintaining cleanliness
Pay: £10.50-£13.00/hour + tips
Delivery Driver/Rider
Food delivery, package delivery (apps like Deliveroo, UberEats)
Pay: £12.00-£15.00/hour (including tips)
Administrative Assistant
Data entry, filing, receptionist duties
Pay: £11.00-£13.50/hour
Customer Support
Phone/chat support, handling inquiries and issues
Pay: £11.50-£14.00/hour
Benefits of On-Campus Employment
Convenient location: No additional travel time or costs as you're already on campus for classes.
Work hour flexibility: University employers understand and accommodate your academic commitments.
Relevant experience: Roles like research assistants or lab helpers provide experience in your field of study.
Networking opportunities: Build relationships with faculty and staff who could provide references.
Easy application process: Universities typically have streamlined hiring for students.
Hour caps: Universities are aware of visa restrictions and ensure compliance with work hour limits.
Age Requirements
| UK City | High-Demand Sectors | Notable Employers |
|---|---|---|
| London | Retail, Hospitality, Customer Service, Finance | Major retailers, Restaurant chains, Banks, Hotels |
| Manchester | Retail, Food Service, Event Staff, Media | Trafford Centre shops, MediaCityUK, Hospitality venues |
| Edinburgh | Tourism, Festivals, Hospitality, Retail | Festival venues, Tourist attractions, Royal Mile shops |
| Birmingham | Retail, Customer Service, Warehousing | Bullring shopping center, Distribution centers |
| Glasgow | Retail, Hospitality, Call Centers | Shopping malls, Call center operations, Restaurants |
How to Find Student Jobs in the UK
Finding suitable part-time employment requires knowledge of where to look and how to effectively apply for positions. The UK job market offers numerous channels for student job seekers, both online and offline. A strategic approach to your job search can significantly increase your chances of finding suitable employment that complements your studies.
University Career Services
Most UK universities have dedicated career services that advertise part-time roles specifically for students. They often have exclusive partnerships with local employers looking to hire students.
Student Union Job Shops
Many student unions run their own job shops that advertise part-time work, both on-campus and with local employers who specifically want to hire students.
Department Notice Boards
Academic departments frequently advertise research assistant positions, lab work, and other subject-specific roles on physical or online notice boards.
Student-Specific Job Sites
Several websites specialize in part-time and temporary jobs for students:
- StudentJob UK - Focuses on student-friendly roles
- E4S (Employment4Students) - Specializes in temporary and part-time work
- Save the Student Jobs - Lists flexible positions suitable for students
General Job Sites
Major job platforms with dedicated filters for part-time and student roles:
- Indeed - Filter by "Part-time" and "Student" keywords
- Reed - Has a dedicated student jobs section
- Totaljobs - Good for a wide range of part-time positions
App-Based Platforms
For flexible "gig economy" work:
- Deliveroo, UberEats, Just Eat - Food delivery
- TaskRabbit - Various small tasks and odd jobs
- Fiverr, Upwork - Freelance work (if eligible with your visa)
CV Tailoring
- Adapt your CV for each job application
- Highlight relevant skills and experience
- Use UK CV format (1-2 pages, no photo)
- Include your work rights/visa status
Direct Approaches
- Visit local shops/cafés with printed CVs
- Attend university job fairs to meet employers
- Check notice boards in community centers
- Ask current students about job openings
Networking
- Join student societies related to your career interests
- Connect with alumni working in target companies
- Attend employer presentations on campus
- Maintain a professional LinkedIn profile
Research the company before applying to tailor your application
Include a concise, targeted cover letter for formal applications
Provide references from previous employers or tutors
Follow up on applications if you don't hear back within a week
Be clear about your work hour availability
Apply to too many jobs without tailoring your application
Include unnecessary personal information (marital status, age)
Use informal language in written applications
Submit applications with spelling or grammar errors
Provide false information about qualifications or experience
Interview Preparation
Student Wages and Income
Understanding typical wage rates, minimum wage regulations, and income expectations is crucial for financial planning as an international student in the UK. Wages can vary significantly depending on the type of work, your location, and your skills. This section provides an overview of what you can expect to earn in different roles and sectors.
The UK has a National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) that ensures workers receive a minimum level of pay. As of April 2025, the rates are:
| Age Group | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| 23 and over (National Living Wage) | £11.44 |
| 21-22 years old | £11.44 |
| 18-20 years old | £8.60 |
| Under 18 | £6.40 |
Average wages vary significantly across UK regions, with London and the South East typically offering higher rates to offset the higher cost of living.
London
Average student wage: £11.50-£15.00/hour
South East (Brighton, Oxford, Southampton)
Average student wage: £10.50-£13.00/hour
Major Cities (Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol)
Average student wage: £10.50-£12.50/hour
Other Regions
Average student wage: £10.42-£11.50/hour
Average Pay Rates by Sector
| Sector | Typical Roles | Avg. Hourly Rate | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retail | Sales Assistant, Cashier, Stock Room | £10.42-£11.50 | Staff discounts (10-30%), flexible schedules |
| Hospitality | Waiter/Waitress, Barista, Kitchen Assistant | £10.50-£12.00 | Tips, free/discounted meals, social environment |
| On-Campus | Library Assistant, Admin Support, Ambassador | £10.80-£13.00 | Convenient location, good study-work balance |
| Delivery/Gig Work | Food Delivery, Package Courier | £12.00-£15.00 | Flexible hours, performance-based earning potential |
| Call Center | Customer Service, Support Agent | £11.00-£13.00 | Regular shifts, performance bonuses |
| Tutoring/Teaching | Academic Tutor, Language Teacher | £15.00-£25.00 | Higher rates, relevant experience, flexible scheduling |
Income Tax
Most students will fall within the Personal Allowance (£15,000 for 2025-26 tax year) and won't pay income tax if earning below this threshold. If you exceed this amount, you'll pay:
- 20% tax on earnings between £15,000 and £50,270
- 40% tax on any portion above £50,270
Part-time student workers rarely exceed the Personal Allowance, especially with visa work hour restrictions.
National Insurance
You'll pay National Insurance contributions if you earn above £242 per week (about £1,048 per month), which applies to many students working close to the 20-hour limit:
- 2% of your weekly earnings between £242 and £967
- 2% on earnings over £967 per week
These contributions provide access to certain benefits and build your UK state pension entitlement.
Tax and National Insurance Deductions
Your employer will automatically deduct taxes and National Insurance through the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system. You'll receive a payslip showing:
- Gross pay (before deductions)
- Tax code (determines your Personal Allowance)
- Income tax deductions (if applicable)
- National Insurance contributions
- Net pay (the amount you actually receive)
Balance Work Hours with Study Requirements
Employment Rights and Tax Responsibilities
International students working in the UK are entitled to the same workplace protections as domestic workers. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential for a positive work experience and ensures you're treated fairly. This section outlines key employment protections and obligations that all student workers should know.
Written Terms of Employment
You have the right to a written statement of your employment terms (contract) within two months of starting work. For part-time work, this may be a simplified statement but should include:
- Job title/description
- Start date
- Working hours
- Pay rate and payment schedule
- Holiday entitlement
- Notice period
Working Hours & Breaks
UK employment law dictates:
- Maximum 48-hour average working week (though you can opt out)
- Minimum 20-minute break if working more than 6 hours
- At least 11 hours rest between working days
- At least one day off per week
Paid Annual Leave
All workers, including part-time and temporary staff, are entitled to 5.6 weeks of paid annual leave (pro-rated for part-time work). For example, if you work 2 days a week, you're entitled to 11.2 days of paid leave per year.
Health & Safety
Employers must provide a safe working environment, including:
- Adequate training for your role
- Necessary safety equipment
- Safe systems of work
- Protection from hazards
You have the right to refuse work that you reasonably believe is unsafe without fear of dismissal.
Protection Against Discrimination
The Equality Act 2010 protects workers from discrimination based on:
- Age
- Gender
- Race or nationality
- Disability
- Religion or belief
- Sexual orientation
- Pregnancy or maternity
International students are explicitly protected from nationality-based discrimination.
Protection from Harassment
You have the right to work in an environment free from bullying, harassment, or victimization. This includes unwanted behavior related to a protected characteristic that violates your dignity or creates a hostile environment.
Understanding Your Payslip
You have the right to an itemized payslip showing:
- Gross pay (before deductions)
- Net pay (take-home amount)
- Variable deductions (tax, National Insurance)
- Fixed deductions (if any)
- Hours worked (if pay varies by time worked)
Always check your payslip to ensure you're being paid the correct amount and hours.
Lawful Deductions
Employers can only make deductions from your pay if:
- Required by law (tax, National Insurance)
- Authorized in your employment contract
- You've given written consent
- There's a statutory payment due (e.g., student loan repayments, though typically not applicable to international students)
Employers cannot make deductions to recover till shortages, breakages, or customer walkouts unless your contract explicitly allows this.
Right to Work Check
Employers must verify your right to work in the UK before employment starts:
- They will check your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) or digital immigration status
- They may take copies of your passport and visa
- Some employers use the government's online checking service
- You must provide genuine documents - providing false information is a criminal offense
National Insurance Number
You should apply for a National Insurance Number (NIN) if you don't already have one:
- You can start work before receiving your NIN
- Inform your employer that you've applied
- Provide your NIN to your employer once received
Banking Information
You'll need to provide your UK bank account details to receive your wages. Most employers no longer pay in cash for regular employment.
Workplace Rights Resources
International students should be aware of signs of potential workplace exploitation, which is unfortunately more common among international workers:
Payment below minimum wage — Calculate your hourly rate (total pay ÷ hours worked) and compare it to the minimum wage for your age group.
Unpaid hours or training — All working time, including mandatory training, should be paid at or above minimum wage.
Confiscation of documents — Employers should never keep your original passport or BRP (they can only make copies).
Cash-only payment with no payslips — This can be a sign of tax evasion and may leave you without legal protections.
Pressure to work beyond visa restrictions — Never exceed your permitted working hours, regardless of employer pressure.
Where to Get Help:
- Modern Slavery Helpline: 08000 121 700 (for serious cases of exploitation)
- GLAA (Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority): 0800 432 0804
- Your university's international student support office
- Citizens Advice: 0800 144 8848 (free confidential advice)
Balancing Work and Academic Success
While part-time employment offers financial benefits and valuable experience, maintaining a healthy balance between work and academic commitments is crucial for success during your UK studies. This section provides strategies for effectively managing your time, setting priorities, and ensuring your academic performance remains strong.
Planning Your Schedule
Creating a structured weekly timetable is essential for effectively balancing work and studies:
- Schedule work shifts around your most demanding classes, not vice versa
- Block dedicated study time in your calendar (3-4 hours per course per week)
- Include buffer time between activities for travel and mental transitions
- Reserve time for assignment preparation well before deadlines
- Allocate time for self-care, exercise, and social activities
Digital Tools for Time Management
- Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook: For scheduling classes, work shifts, and study time
- Notion, Evernote, or OneNote: For organizing course notes and assignments
- Forest or Focus Keeper: For implementing Pomodoro technique during study sessions
- Todoist or Microsoft To Do: For tracking daily and weekly tasks
Maintaining Academic Excellence
To ensure your studies remain your primary focus:
- Inform your employer about important academic dates (exams, assignment deadlines)
- Schedule fewer work hours during exam periods and assignment deadlines
- Consider taking more hours during less demanding academic periods
- Communicate proactively with professors if work occasionally impacts attendance
- Form study groups with classmates to maximize learning efficiency
Balancing Different Learning Styles
UK universities often emphasize independent learning. Consider different approaches:
- Use commuting time for review of lecture notes or reading
- Record lectures (with permission) to review during downtime
- Utilize university library resources and online databases remotely
- Schedule regular meetings with tutors/advisors to ensure you're on track
Maintaining Physical Wellbeing
Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours consistently. Sleep deprivation significantly impacts academic performance and work quality.
Exercise regularly: UK university campuses offer affordable gym facilities and sports clubs. Even a 20-minute walk daily can improve concentration.
Meal planning: Prepare meals in advance for busy days. Avoid relying on caffeine or energy drinks to manage fatigue.
Hydration: The UK climate can be damp but central heating often causes dehydration. Carry a water bottle.
Consider commute time: Choose jobs with manageable commutes to reduce fatigue. Walking/cycling can double as exercise.
Eye strain: Follow the 20-20-20 rule when studying (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
Course-Relevant Jobs
Choosing work related to your field of study offers multiple benefits:
- Reinforces academic concepts through practical application
- Builds relevant experience for your CV/resume
- Often more intellectually engaging, reducing mental fatigue
- Creates networking opportunities in your chosen field
Schedule-Friendly Jobs
Look for positions with these characteristics:
- Consistent weekly schedules that allow for study planning
- Ability to shift-swap during exam periods or deadlines
- Short shifts (4-5 hours) that don't drain your entire day
- Weekend-focused roles if your weekday academic schedule is heavy
Study-Compatible Work
Some jobs allow for dual productivity:
- Library assistants often have quiet periods for reading
- Reception/desk jobs sometimes allow studying during slow times
- Campus computer lab monitors can often study while working
- Research participation pays well and often involves minimal time commitment
When to Consider Reducing Work Hours
Frequently Asked Questions
International students commonly have questions about working while studying in the UK. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about student employment regulations, finding jobs, and balancing work with academic commitments.
Have more questions about working while studying in the UK? Contact our expert advisors for personalized guidance.
Additional Resources
Explore these valuable resources for more detailed information about student employment in the UK, your legal rights, and tools to help with your job search and career development.
Official information on work rights for Student visa holders
Guidelines on applying for and using your National Insurance Number
Detailed information about your legal rights in the workplace
Information on your tax obligations while working in the UK
Specialized job board for student-friendly positions
Wide range of part-time and temporary student jobs
Student-specific job listings and money-saving advice
Major job platform with part-time filtering options
Expert guidance on creating UK-style application documents
Free career tools, resources, and guidance
Develop skills to enhance your employability (free access through many UK universities)
Our comprehensive guide to the student experience in the UK
Need Personal Guidance?
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