student work limit uk

• Work during study

Working in the UK during your studies

Depending on your immigration status in the UK you may have restrictions on employment. The following information will let you know your working rights in the UK.

If you hold a Tier 4/Student visa, there will be restrictions on the amount and type of work you do in the UK.

The main purpose of your Student visa is to allow you to study in the UK, not work. If you hold a Tier 4/Student visa, you must adhere to the working restrictions attached to it. These conditions will be on your BRP and stated in your visa application decision letter.

On this page you can find information about:

EEA and Swiss nationals

Undergraduate students.

• Postgraduate taught students
• Postgraduate research students
• Below degree level students

Volunteering

Proving your right to work, work placements.

• Other visa types
• Looking for work

Working for an employer outside the UK

Working for a uk employer remotely.

If you are an EEA or Swiss national who has been granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can work in the UK during and after your studies and you do not need the permission of UK Visas and Immigration to do so.

Tier 4/Student visa holders

• It will be stated on your visa if you can work and the amount of hours you are allowed to work per week.
• The maximum per week limit is defined by UKVI as Monday to Sunday. 
• If your visa says “no work allowed” or “work prohibited” you are not allowed to work.
• If you leave your programme early or take a break from your studies you should not undertake any work whilst you are still in the UK. This is because your visa rights rely on you being in full-time study. 
• If you think you have the incorrect working rights on your visa please contact the Student Immigration Advice Team by using the  contact form  for further assistance.

There are some restrictions on the types of employment you can undertake as a Tier 4/Student visa student. You cannot do any of the following:

• This includes freelancing and ‘gig-economy’ work, such as Deliveroo or Uber drivers.

Any work or trading as a freelancer, contractor or consultant is highly likely to be considered self-employment, which is not permitted under the Tier 4/Student visa work conditions.

• Take a permanent full-time job
• Be employed as a professional sportsperson including as a sports coach
• Be employed as an entertainer
• Work as a doctor or dentist in training, unless you are on the foundation programme.

*Please note that you are not permitted to set up your own business in the UK, including where you are not the controlling shareholder. This additional restriction will affect you if you applied for your Tier 4/Student visa on or after 6 April 2016.

If you require further guidance on how many hours you are permitted to work, please contact the Student Immigration Compliance Team. To contact the team, please open an enquiry via askUCL.

UK government Employment status website

• Undergraduate students are only permitted to work (paid or unpaid) up to 20 hours during term time. 
• You are permitted to work full-time during University vacations only; students should refer to the vacation periods as stated on the UCL term dates website .
• Once the course end date on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) has passed, you are permitted to work full-time until your visa expiry date, but cannot fill a permanent vacancy.

Postgraduate Taught students

• Postgraduate Taught Masters (PGT) students are only permitted to work (paid or unpaid) up to 20 hours during term time.
• PGT students have official vacation periods during Christmas and Easter only*. This means that students will only be permitted to work full-time during the Christmas and Easter vacation periods ( see UCL official term dates ).
• PGT students are expected to be studying during the summer whilst they write their dissertation. This period is considered to be term-time,and therefore students will only be permitted to work 20 hours per week during this time.
• Following the course end date stated on the CAS you are permitted to work full-time until your visa expiry date, but cannot fill a permanent vacancy.

* If you are enrolled on a 2-year PGT programme (e.g. MFA), you may have a summer vacation period between Year 1 and Year 2.  Please check with your academic department to confirm the specific vacation dates for your programme. 

Postgraduate Research students

• Postgraduate Research (PGR) students are required to be in continuous attendance as the standard University term dates do not apply to them.
• PGR students do not have any designated vacation periods. You are in term time all year unless you have written permission from your supervisor and academic department to take a period of annual leave.
• Your supervisor must agree and confirm the dates for the annual leave in writing to your academic department. You can work full-time during the agreed annual leave period.  Details of PGR annual leave can be found in the UCL Academic Manual (Chapter 5, section 2.6).  Should your employer require confirmation of your annual leave period, please refer them to your academic department. 
• Once you have completed all academic work and submitted your final thesis including corrections, you will be permitted to work full-time until your visa expiry date, but cannot fill a permanent vacancy.

Studying below degree level

Please note if the programme of study is below degree level you will be permitted to work 10 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. Please check your BRP for your permitted working hours. 

You can volunteer while you are studying. Volunteering is different from Voluntary Work (unpaid employment) and does not count towards your weekly working hours limit. Volunteers will normally help a registered charity or voluntary or public sector organisation.  

If you are volunteering with an organisation, you must not: 

• have a contract of employment 
• take the place of an employee 
• receive payment for your contribution, including payment in kind 

You are permitted to undertake Voluntary Work in the UK however you must be aware that Voluntary Work counts towards your maximum number of hours of work during a week. 

As a voluntary worker you: 

• are usually paid in some form 
• often have a contract with an employer 

If you are unsure, you should check with the organisation whether what you are doing can be regarded as Voluntary Work. 

UKCISA advice on volunteering  

If your employer requires additional evidence of your term dates so they know when you may be allowed to work more hours than the restriction stated on your visa, you can provide:  

• a printout from UCL website confirming term dates
• a UCL student status letter (letter self-service options are available on Portico where students can print off a statement of student status (current students) or statement of award (alumni))
• Postgraduate research students are able to obtain confirmation of their annual leave period from their academic department.

If you are a Student visa holder, you are only permitted to undertake a work placement in the following circumstances:

The work placement must:

• be an integral and assessed part of your programme
• take up no more than 50% of the total time that you spend on your programme

If your work placement meets the above requirements, you will be permitted to work (paid or unpaid) for more than 20 hours per week.  However, you must not be self-employed, or employed as a professional or semi-professional sportsperson, or an entertainer.

As your visa sponsor, UCL will report the details of your work placement to UK Visas and Immigration.  This applies whether your work placement takes in place on the work placement premises, remotely or abroad. 

PGR students who wish to undertake a work placement must obtain confirmation from their supervisor that the placement is an integral part of their PhD research.  It is only in these circumstances that we will be able to continue to sponsor your student visa.

If you have any questions about undertaking a work placement as part of your programme, you should seek guidance from both your academic department and the Student Immigration Compliance Team .

Other visa holders

If you are a non-EEA national in the UK on a visa type other than Tier 4/Student visa you should check that you have the right to work before seeking employment. Normally this will be stated on your visa. If not, or if you are unclear about this, you can contact the Student Immigration Advice Team by using the  contact form  for further assistance.

Please note: all types of visitor visa, including the Short-term study visa, do not allow work in the UK.

Finding work in the UK

London has more part-time work opportunities than anywhere else in the country, whether you are looking for paid or voluntary work, the  UCL Career Services website  is a good place to start your search.

Volunteering during your studies is very popular in the UK and is a fantastic way to develop your skills, meet new people and improve your chances of getting paid work. You can find more information about the benefits of volunteering and the current roles on offer on the website of the  Volunteering Services Unit  (VSU) .

If you are physically outside the UK, your Tier 4/Student visa work conditions are irrelevant.  You need to check what your work rights in the specific country where you are working.  However any work you do when you are physically in the UK, for example working for a non-UK employer remotely or doing a "virtual internship" with them counts towards your weekly 10 or 20 hours maximum.  This is because the work restriction has no specific exception to not count work undertaken remotely for an employer who is outside the UK.

Tier 4/Student visa holders undertaking a work placement or internship remotely from outside the UK are not limited to the weekly 10 or 20 hours work maximum as they are not in the UK and therefore are not subject to Student visa work conditions.

In addition, a UK visa is not required for a person who is overseas to work remotely for a UK employer.

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Working in the UK as a student can be a rewarding experience. It’s important to understand and comply with your immigration rights and restrictions and any limits to working that your institution might have.

Most students aged 16 or over can work, even if it is only a course-related work placement. It is a great opportunity to make some extra money, meet new people, enhance your career prospects and experience working life in the UK. 

Work rights are a condition of your immigration permission, so it’s very important that you are clear about what you may and may not do. You must always follow any restrictions and ensure that your work does not affect the progress on your course.

If you’ve already been granted permission, check your work restrictions on your biometric residence permit (BRP) and find out more about working hours.

Can I work in the UK?

Many, but not all, Students and Child students can work. This depends on the type of Student sponsor you have. You can find what type of Student sponsor you have and their sponsor status in the ‘sponsor type’ and ‘status’ columns in the register of Student sponsors .

When you have found your college or university, find out if you can work and what your maximum working hours are, based on the Student sponsor’s type including:

• Student sponsor with a track record.
• Overseas higher education institution.
• Independent school.
• Any other student sponsor.

Always check the information on your immigration document. If it says, "No work", you must not work. If you think this is a mistake, you must get it corrected before you take any employment.  . You can find further details in these Home Office publications:

• An employer's guide to right to work checks
• Home Office Student and Child student caseworker guidance

This change makes no difference to your work rights and restrictions.  

If you do not have Student permission, you can find further information about work rights for other immigration permission categories on gov.uk . Alternatively, find out more about your right to work as a dependant on our website .

Student sponsor with a track record

You may work if your Student sponsor has a track record of compliance and your course is full-time. You can find this out by looking for ‘track record’ in the status column of the  register of Student sponsors and checking the course level on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). 

If your Student sponsor has a track record of compliance and your course is full-time, your hours of work are: 

• Up to 20 hours a week in term time if you are studying for a qualification at degree level or above. This means that your course is at RQF level 6 or SCQF level 9 or higher.
• Up to 10 hours a week in term time if you are studying for a qualification below degree level. 
• Full time outside term time (for study at all levels), which includes in vacations and before your course starts, on work placements , and after your course has ended .

Students sponsored to study a postgraduate course on a part-time basis may not work. This applies to term time and vacations.

Always check any limits on work that your university, college or school imposes or recommends. It is important that you do not exceed them.

Overseas higher education institution

You may work if you are on a study abroad programme and your sponsor is an overseas higher education institution. If your Student sponsor type is ‘overseas higher education institution’ in the sponsor type column in the register of Student sponsors , your working hours are:

• Up to 20 hours a week in term time.
• Full time outside term time, which includes in vacations and before your course starts, on work placements , and after your course has ended .

Always check any limits on work that your university imposes or recommends. It is important that you do not exceed them.

Independent school

Child students who are under 16 years old are not allowed to work. 

If you are a Child student aged 16 or over, you can work:

• Up to 10 hours a week in term time.
• Full time in vacations, including before your course starts, on work placements , and after your course has ended (this is part of your vacation).

The situation is different if you have Student permission, and not Child student permission. You can work only if your independent school is a ‘ sponsor with a track record’ in the status column of the  register of Student sponsors .

Always check any limits on work that your school imposes or recommends. It is important that you do not exceed them.

If your school does not have a track record and you have Student permission, you are not allowed to work in or outside term time, but you might be able to take a work placement as part of your course.

Any other student sponsor

You are not allowed to work if your Student sponsor does not have the words ‘track record’ in the status column of the  register of Student sponsors , and is listed in the sponsor type column as:

• a private provider
• a publicly funded college
• an embedded college offering pathway courses

However, you might be able to take a work placement as part of your course.

Related content

Working hours

If you have permission to work, working hours in term time must not exceed 10 or 20 hours a week, and you can work full time outside term time. However, it is important that you check any limits on work that your university, college or school imposes or recommends and that you do not exceed them. 

A ‘week’ means any seven-day period starting on a Monday. You are responsible for ensuring that you do not exceed your weekly working hours, so it’s essential to keep detailed records of your working hours. This is especially important if you work irregular hours or if you have more than one employer (inside or outside the UK) because employers may not know about work you do elsewhere.

‘Term time’ means the period when your Student sponsor expects you to be studying. ‘Outside term time’ means any other time. For example, the period before your course starts and after it ends, and vacations. You can usually find term dates on your institution's website or in your course information. If you can’t find details of your course term dates on the website or information is contradictory, ask your Student sponsor for confirmation before starting full-time work to avoid breaching your work condition, even if it is by accident.

If you are a research student, you should ask your faculty, department or supervisor about how term time is defined for you – some institutions permit full-time work during agreed holidays or after submission of your viva, others do not. You must provide information about your term time to your employer.

Working hours and pay

Your pay and your working hours are separate. This means that you can work during a time when you get holiday pay for a different job. This is because only your hours actively working are counted. Make sure to check that your contract allows you to work for another employer.

For example, you have a job in a shop for 20 hours a week. When you are not working in the shop, because you are on leave and you are getting holiday pay, you can work up to 20 hours a week in term time on a short-term contract as a school assistant. Your hours of work must not exceed 20 a week. But you can get holiday pay at the same time as pay for your school assistant work.

The same principle applies to any extra money your employer pays you. Examples include but are not limited to: back pay, income tax credit after emergency tax, bonus payments, reimbursed expenses, increments for a retrospective pay increase. Extra money you receive for these reasons does not affect the number of hours you have worked or are working.

The UK government has more information about holiday pay on their website .

Work placements and internships

Work placements and internships are an excellent way of getting work experience, which can help you make career decisions and apply for jobs after your course.

You can usually do a work placement as part of your course even if you are not permitted to take employment. 

If you need help finding a work placement or internship, talk to your tutor or careers service.

What is a work placement or internship?

A work placement must be an assessed and be an integral part of your course. Usually, it must not be longer than one third of the total length of your course.

If you meet both of the following requirements, you can spend up to half of your course on work placements:

• Your course is at degree level or above. This means that your course results in a qualification at RQF level 6 or SCQF level 9 or above.
• Your sponsor is an overseas higher education institution. Or your sponsor has a ‘track record’ in the status column of the  register of Student sponsors .

You can treat an internship that meets these requirements as a work placement. In all other cases, it will be subject to the usual restrictions on student employment. This means that you cannot work full time during term time.

Your Student sponsor must:

• Stay connected with you during your work placement.
• Let the Home Office know that you will be working for part of your course.
• Provide a letter for your work placement provider which contains the terms and conditions of the placement and explain how your sponsor will assess it.

Your employer can pay you for your work placement. It can be full time, even in term time, and you can do it at the same time as other work. For more information about your potential employer’s duties read the  Home Office’s guidance for employers .

Work placements outside the UK

You might want to take a work placement outside the UK. Before you do this, check the immigration requirements of the country you want to work in and ask your Student sponsor if it will continue to sponsor you while you are outside the UK. If your sponsor withdraws its sponsorship, you will have to apply again to return to the UK. 

Can I change my decision to do or not do a work placement?

Your Student visa should cover both your course of study and your work placement. Before you come to the UK, ask your institution how it will help you find work and what will happen if you are unable to find work. For example, you may have to leave the UK and apply again or finish your course early.

It is sometimes possible to decide after arriving in the UK to add a work placement to your course. You will usually have to make another Student route application. Discuss the timing of the application with your Student sponsor.

What kind of work can you do?

If you can work during your studies, you can apply for and accept jobs in most types of paid role, at any level. You are not restricted to working on campus.

The Home Office might question your working hours if you earn more than most students. This could be around £15,000 a year. There are no limits on what you may earn or on your hours of work in vacations and after study. But make sure you never exceed the limit on your weekly working hours in term time. It is important that you do not let work interfere with making progress on your course.

Our blog looks at many types of work, and whether you can do them as a student.

Once you have checked your work restrictions, you can contact your college or university's careers service. They should be able to offer you help with: 

• Looking for suitable work including internships.
• Applying for a job.
• Interview techniques and practice.
• Recruiter events and job fairs.
• Contacting alumni who work in areas of interest to you.

You can also search for jobs online. Recruitment agencies and websites should not ask you to pay for help in applying for or getting work. The UK government has guidance on your rights and safety when looking for a job .

You can work with Student permission as a  students' union sabbatical officer .

Volunteering and unpaid work

Volunteering offers the opportunity to undertake a wide range of activities. It is not paid, but you can meet new people and make a difference in your local community.

There are many ways of finding volunteering opportunities. Your Student sponsor can usually help, and here are some organisations who list volunteering opportunities in the UK:

• National Council for Voluntary Organisations (England)
• Volunteer Scotland
• Volunteering Wales
• Volunteer Now (Northern Ireland)

Unpaid employment (voluntary work) is not the same as volunteering. The  Student and Child Student casework guidance  explains that volunteers do not have a contract and must not be a substitute for an employee. Volunteers are not paid, though it is possible to receive reasonable travel and subsistence expenses. Volunteers usually help a charity, voluntary organisation or public sector organisation. Unpaid employment counts towards your weekly hours of work. If you have a work prohibition, you must not do anything that could be unpaid employment.

Work you must not do

There are some kinds of work you must not do including self-employment, business activity, professional sportsperson, entertainer, and permanent full-time job. There are some exceptions.

Self-employment

UK government information about self-employment  explains when you are likely to be self-employed. For example, selling goods and services for profit, including online and through apps. The UK tax authority, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), can tell you if your proposed work would be self-employment. You can  contact HMRC  or use their  guidance and self-assessment tools .

Your employer might suggest that you work for them as a 'contractor' or on a 'freelance' basis. This is so that your employer does not have to do so much paperwork. You must not agree to this, as you might end up breaching your work condition.

Business activity

The  Student and Child Student casework guidance  provides examples of business activities. You can start to prepare a business if you intend to apply under a work route that allows this. For details, see  guidance for start-up and innovator endorsing bodies .

Professional sportsperson

This includes paid work as a sports coach. Information about sporting activities is in the  Student and Child Student casework guidance . Ask your student sponsor if you do not understand how it applies to your situation. There is an exception for students doing  work placements  on a course at degree level or above.

Entertainer

This includes paid work as an actor, musician, dancer or other performer. There is an exception for dance, drama and music students doing work placements. Your course must be at degree level or above.

Permanent full-time job

'Permanent' means there is no end date in your contract. You can do a permanent part-time job. Outside term time, you can do a full-time fixed-term job.

Doctor or dentist in training

You can work as a doctor or dentist in training only if you are on the foundation programme. This restriction does not apply to you if you applied for your permission on or after 1 December 2020.

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Working on a student visa

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The University applies strict working restrictions on students.

The term 'student visa' on this page refers to immigration permission issued under both Tier 4 and the Student route. Tier 4 was replaced by the Student route on 5 October 2020.

Working hours

Students should ensure they are aware of the University's working restrictions which are generally stricter than the number of hours you can work on a student visa. The following is therefore provided for information.  

A student visa issued for full-time degree level studies allows you to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during term-time. This is a maximum of 20 hours in total in any one week, including paid or unpaid work and for one or more organisation. The 20 hours cannot be averaged over a longer period.  A 'week' is defined by the Home Office as a period of 7 days beginning with a Monday. This also includes both paid and unpaid work. The University imposes greater working restrictions, as outlined above, and you will need to adhere to these.

A student visa issued for full-time degree level studies allows you work full-time during official vacation periods. Term and vacation dates differ depending on the level of study you are undertaking so it is important you check these before undertaking full-time work. This includes a full-time internship or placement unless it is part of your course. Please note that the term and vacation dates used by undergraduates do not apply to postgraduate research courses and some taught Masters courses. Masters students should consult their Faculty or Department for further details regarding official vacation periods during their studies and should be aware of the official end date of their course as stated on the CAS used to apply for the student visa. The academic year for postgraduate research students is continuous throughout the year, from 1 October to 30 September. It is therefore not possible, for example, for a postgraduate research student to undertake full-time work during the summer period. Whilst breaks for holidays are permitted, at times agreed with your supervisor, these are not periods that would permit full-time work. Whether you can work after submission of your thesis for examination varies depending on the stage of the process as outlined in the information below. 

Type of work

Students on a student visa can do most kinds of work, but you must not:

• be self-employed;
• engage in business activity;
• work in a position that would fill a full-time permanent vacancy;
• work as a professional sportsperson including as a sports coach, paid or unpaid, as defined by the Home Office on pages 94-95 of the Student route guidance ;
• work as an entertainer, paid or unpaid;
• work as a doctor or dentist in training, unless you are on the foundation programme.

These restrictions apply throughout your time on a student visa. 

Self-employment

A student visa does not allow self-employment. Self-employment normally includes activities such as freelance writing or publishing, private tutoring or selling goods or services directly to an end customer, for example as a consultant. If you are not on the employer or agency's employee payroll, it is likely the work being offered is on a self-employed basis. If you are unsure, it is important you check your employment status prior to starting work.

In order to undertake work you should be given a formal document by the employer such as a 'contract of employment' or a 'worker's agreement' or some other written statement confirming your employment status. This includes where you will be undertaking work for one or more of the Colleges, or for the University. Please note you may find that other students (who are not on a student visa) may not need to have the same documentation in place.

Postgraduate students undertaking undergraduate supervisions, or students undertaking other work in College, must contact their College to arrange a formal worker's agreement before starting the activity if they hold a student visa. 

Engaging in Business Activity

A student visa does not permit you to engage in business activity. The Home Office defines this as working for a business in which you have a financial or other significant beneficial interest in a capacity other than as an employee. The Home Office provides some examples of the types of circumstances in which you would be considered to be engaging in business activity: setting up a business that is trading or has a trading presence; being employed by a company in which you hold shares of 10% or more; or working for a company where you hold a statutory role, such as a director. However, this is not an exhaustive list. If you are unsure whether this restriction would apply in particular circumstances, you should seek further guidance from the International Student Office prior to undertaking the activity.

Filling a permanent full-time vacancy

A student visa does not permit you to work in a position that would fill a permanent full-time vacancy. This means any work you undertake on a full-time basis where permitted, for example after completion of your course as outlined below, must be in a temporary position (i.e. the contract ends on a certain date). There is an exception to this if you applied for your student visa on or after 6 April 2022 and you make an application for the  Graduate visa  following successful course completion, in which case you can start a full-time permanent role whilst this new visa application is pending. 

Undertaking an internship / work placement

A student visa would only permit you to undertake an internship in the following circumstances:

Undergraduate students are able to undertake an internship during the official University vacation periods. The employer will need evidence of the academic calendar as confirmation of the vacation dates when you are permitted to work full-time. Acceptable evidence would be a printout of the academic calendar from the University’s website. Medical students undertake work placements as part of their course and the International Student Office provides details of these placements to the Home Office at the beginning of the relevant academic year.

Masters students are able to undertake an internship during the official vacation periods. These dates vary depending on the course so you should consult your Faculty and Department for further details regarding the official vacation periods. A small number of Masters courses include the option of a short internship/placement as part of the course. If this applies to your course it will be included in the course handbook. As an embedded part of the course, this is permitted on a student visa but the International Student Office will need to provide the internship/placement details to the Home Office in advance so it is important that you keep your Faculty or Department informed of the details and any subsequent changes. You should also be aware that the restrictions on the type of work you can undertake on a student visa, as outlined on this page, continue to apply. This includes not undertaking an internship/placement on a self-employed basis. 

Information for PhD students is outlined on our 'PhD - Internships and visa considerations' webpage. 

Volunteering

You can volunteer on your student visa but the Home Office makes a distinction between volunteering and voluntary work. Voluntary work is considered unpaid employment and is therefore restricted on a student visa, along with any other paid work, to 20 hours a week during term-time (note the University’s working restrictions are greater and information on defining term-time is outlined under ‘Working hours’ above). Even if the opportunity is advertised as 'volunteering', it could still be considered voluntary work.

The Home Office advises taking the following into consideration to help determine if it is voluntary work or volunteering:  

• Voluntary workers will usually have contractual obligations to perform the work (e.g. to attend at particular times and carry out specific tasks) with the employer being contractually required to provide the work – the contract does not have to be written. The worker is usually remunerated in kind. 

• Students who are volunteering do not have a contract, they must not be a substitute for an employee and they must not be doing unpaid work – i.e. receiving payment in kind (although they are sometimes reimbursed for reasonable travel and subsistence expenses). 

It is advisable to check with the organisation offering the volunteering opportunity whether it would be regarded as unpaid employment.

For PhD students - working after submission of thesis for examination

​ After you submit your thesis for examination, the number of hours you can work on a student visa will depend on the stage of the process:

• The period between submission of thesis for examination and official notification of viva outcome is considered to be 'vacation' and you can work full time.
• The period between official notification of the viva outcome and unconditional approval of degree, which includes time working on corrections if applicable and submission of the hardbound thesis, is considered a return to full-time study. You can only work for up to 20 hours a week. 

The restrictions on the type of work you can undertake on a student visa, as outlined above, continue to apply. 

Working after studies

After your course has ended and whilst your visa remains valid, the Home Office allows you to work full-time on a student visa. The restrictions on the type of work, as outlined above, continue to apply. 

For PhD students, the end of the course is unconditional approval of degree.

For Masters and undergraduate students, the end of the course is either receiving official notification of approval of your degree OR the course end date as stated on your CAS as long as you have completed all required assessment for your course by this date, whichever is earlier. For students studying on an MPhil by Research examined by thesis and oral, when you can work full-time depends on the stage of the examination process and you are advised to contact the International Student Office for further guidance.

If you need any clarification about the working conditions on a student visa, contact the International Student Office for further advice.

You may also wish to consider switching to the Graduate visa after successful completion of your course.

University's responsibilities

In accordance with sponsor licence requirements, the University must notify the Home Office if it becomes aware a student is breaking the conditions of their student visa. This includes working in breach of the visa conditions. 

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Working in the UK during studies

If you hold a valid Student visa, there will be restrictions on the amount and type of work you are allowed to do inside the UK. We have guidance for during your course and about after studies, during your visa 'wrap up period' up until the visa expiry date.

Student or Tier 4 visas impose strict restrictions on working in the UK. The main purpose of your student visa is to allow you to study in the UK, not work. If you hold a Student or Tier 4 visa, you must adhere to the working restrictions attached to it. These conditions will be outlined in your decision letter. You are required to abide by the visa conditions attached to your Student visa as confirmed in your decision letter.  

Eligibility to work while studying

Your eligibility to work in the UK while studying will depend on your visa permission. 

Standard Visitor visa  

If you have immigration permission as a Standard Visitor, you are not permitted to do any kind of work including voluntary work, paid or unpaid, volunteering or to undertake internships or work placements as part of your studies. 

Visitors may undertake volunteering provided it is for a registered charity and will be for no longer than 30 days in total. 

Permitted activities and restrictions attached to Standard Visitor visa  

Student visa  

If you are on a Student or Tier 4 Student visa, your eligibility to work will be outlined in your visa decision letter. Please make sure that you are familiar with your work conditions. Your entry clearance vignette (visa sticker in your passport) and/or your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card will tell you if you are allowed to work, including the work limit. 

If you are an EU/EEA national or a non-visa national then you will have received your grant digitally.  This will outline your Student visa conditions and working rights.  

You must check your visa or BRP to ensure that the work conditions are correct. If they are not, you may be able to get this corrected. 

Find out how to correct your visa

What work am I allowed to do on a Student visa?

Your Student or Tier 4 visa allows limited working rights in the UK. Your work rights are connected to your visa and student status, so you must stop working immediately if your visa expires or if it is curtailed by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).  

You will be subject to a maximum number of hours per week for working during term time. The term-time period can change depending on the programme you are studying so you must ensure that you are aware of the term time and vacation periods for your specific programme.  

A working ‘week’ is defined as a 7-day period starting on a Monday and ending on the following Sunday. 

As a Student or Tier 4 Student visa holder you can only work if you are considered an ‘employee’. Your Student or Tier 4 visa will allow you to work: 

20 hours in any given week during term time if you are studying a full-time programme at degree level and above 

10 hours in any given week during term time if you are studying a full-time programme below degree level 

Full time during vacation periods and after your official course end date 

On a work placement, which must be an integral and assessed part of your programme of studies 

As a sabbatical officer in a Students’ Union for up to 2 years 

Find out more about sabbatical officers

Read more about work placement

If your course of study is below degree level ,you will be able to work 10 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. 

During term time you can work up to 10 hours (maximum) per week. 

You can work full-time after your official programme end date until your Student visa expires, provided you have no further engagement or attendance requirements. 

Programme specific information on work rights  

If your programme is below degree level (pre-sessionals or international foundation programme) .

If your course of study is below degree level, you will be able to work 10 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. 

Undergraduate students (including MEng, MPhys and MMath) 

If your course of study is at degree level or above you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full time during vacations. Please see the University website to check your official vacation periods. 

During term time you can work up to 20 hours (maximum) per week. 

During vacation periods you can work full-time.  

You can work full-time after your programme end date (as confirmed on your student record) until your Student visa expires, provided you have no further engagement or attendance requirement.  

Taught postgraduate students (Masters / MSc) 

Please always check with your school to confirm the specific term time and official vacation dates for your specific programme. .

During Winter and Spring vacation periods you can work full-time. 

Masters’ students do not have Summer vacation*. Term time conditions apply during the summer term (dissertation period). You can only work full-time after your course end date on your student record.  

You can work full-time after your programme end date until your Student visa expires, provided you have no further engagement or attendance requirement. 

* If you are doing a 2 year postgraduate programme (e.g. MLA or MSW), you may have a summer vacation period between year 1 and year 2.  Please check with your school to confirm the specific vacation dates for your programme. 

Postgraduate research students (MSc by Research / MPhil / PhD) 

During Term Time you can work up to 20 hours (maximum) per week. 

You do not have any designated official vacation periods. You are in term time all year unless you have written permission/approval from your supervisor to take a period of annual leave.  

Your supervisor must agree and confirm the dates for the annual leave in writing. You can work full-time hours during your agreed annual leave period (outside of Term time).  

PGR students may take up to eight weeks of annual leave period per year. PhD students may choose to take this vacation between the submission of thesis and their viva exam, during which they may work full time, providing this is fully approved and recorded as a holiday period by the school. However, some employers will not allow you to work full-time hours during this period. This will depend on the employer's policy. 

You must revert to the usual Term Time part time (no more than 20 hours per week) restrictions when you are studying again, from the date of your viva until you submit your final e-thesis. The formal course end date for Postgraduate research students (PhD / MPhil) will be after the completion of all the academic work, i.e. submitting your final e-thesis after any final corrections.  

Please note that some doctorate-level programmes may have designated vacation periods that are different from what is outlined above. If in doubt, please contact your School. 

Code of Practice for Supervisors and Research Students  

What are my vacation periods?

Vacation periods are different depending on what programme you are studying. 

Undergraduate programmes have 3 vacation periods in line with the University calendar:

• Winter vacation (Christmas holidays)
• Spring vacation (Easter holidays)
• Summer vacation

Postgraduate taught students may have 2 official vacation periods if they follow the standard academic dates as shown on the University calendar:

Please always check with your school to confirm the specific Term Time and official vacation dates for your specific programme as they may follow non-standard academic dates.

• 1 year Masters students do not have vacation during the summer period as this is the dissertation/research module and you are expected to study on a full time basis throughout course

Postgraduate Research students can request 8 weeks of annual leave per year, which they can take at any time, in agreement through their School. W e understand the vacation allowance for individual students to be in relation to their academic year and based on the student’s start date. 

What work am I not allowed to do on a Student visa? 

If you are on a Student or Tier 4 visa, both during and after your studies, you must not: 

Work as a self-employed person 

This includes freelancing and ‘gig-economy’ work, such as Deliveroo or Uber drivers 

any work or trading as a freelancer, contractor or consultant is highly likely to be considered self-employment, which is not permissible under Student visa work conditions 

Engage or take part in business activity 

Fill or undertake a full-time permanent vacancy or graduate level role (unless it is a post as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer) 

Take a full-time internship or work placement during term time that is not an assessed and integral part of your studies 

Work or take employment as an entertainer or as a professional sportsperson, including a sports coach 

If you are not sure if you are being asked to work as self-employed, please check with the Student Immigration Service BEFORE commencing work. Working in breach of your immigration permission is a serious offence and can have implications on your ability to remain in the UK. 

You can find difference between ‘employee’ and ‘self-employed’ on the government website on the link below:

Employment status: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Find out more about working permissions on UKCISA website

Volunteering vs. Voluntary Work 

You can volunteer while you are studying. Volunteering is different from unpaid employment (Voluntary work). Volunteers will normally help a registered charity or voluntary or public sector organisation.  

If you are volunteering with an organisation, you must not: 

have a contract of employment 

take the place of an employee 

not receive payment for your contribution, including payment in kind 

You are permitted to undertake voluntary work in the UK. Voluntary work will be counted in your permitted working hours. 

As a voluntary worker you 

are usually paid in some form 

often have a contract with an employer 

If you are unsure you should check with the organisation whether what you are doing can be regarded as unpaid employment. Any time spent on unpaid employment or voluntary work counts towards your maximum number of hours of work during a week.  

UKCISA advice on volunteering  

Working after completion of your course 

Your Student or Tier 4 visa is granted for the full duration of your course plus 4 additional months (if you are studying at degree level or above), also known as the ‘wrap-up period.’ Once you have reached the official programme end date of your course, you can work full-time during the validity of your Student visa permission. 

The formal course end date for Postgraduate research students (PhD / MPhil) will be after the completion of all the academic work, i.e. submitting your thesis after final corrections.  

You can work full-time hours on a temporary contract up until the expiry date of your Student visa.  

If you have completed your course early, your visa will end earlier. This means you may only work the 4 months following your new course completion date.  

Before your Student visa expires you must:  

Apply for the Graduate route visa if you are eligible,  

Look for sponsorship from an employer and apply for the Skilled Worker visa,  

Apply for another eligible visa route that would allow you to remain in the UK, or  

Leave the UK before your Student or Tier 4 visa expires.  

Proving right to work in the UK  

From 6 April 2022, employers can no longer accept Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) cards as evidence of your right to work in the UK. Instead, you must obtain a ‘share code’ from UKVI which you can then give to the employer so they can then do their checks online.  

How to obtain a share code from UKVI  

If an employer needs additional evidence of term dates so they know when you may be allowed to work more hours than the restriction stated on your visa, along with your share code, you can provide:  

a printout from the University's website confirming semester dates for employment; and/or

a Certificate of Matriculation that confirms your programme end date. 

• See semester dates 2023/24 for employment

You may also refer to the University academic year pages at:

• Academic year structure | The University of Edinburgh  
• Current academic year | The University of Edinburgh ​​​​​​

Please note that whether you are on a vacation period is determined by the type of course you are studying. Please see the ‘ Programme specific information on work rights ’ section of this page for more information on this. 

Where your employer requires further confirmation of your entitlement to work, they can contact the Home Office Employers’ Helpline . 

University recommendation on working while studying

If you are a full-time student, the University recommends you do not work more than 15 hours per week for undergraduate and postgraduate taught students. The University will not employ full-time postgraduate research students for more than an average of 9 hours per week across the academic year, and we recommend that postgraduate students apply this limit to employment outside the University.

Information for students employed as tutors and demonstrators can be found here:

Academic Services - Tutors and demonstrators

Careers Service

The Careers Service has lots of useful information and resources to help you navigate the UK graduate job market.

Work placements and internships for Tier 4/Student route visa holders

Working as a sabbatical officer.

Working while studying

If you are interested in working during your studies you must check that the type and amount of work is allowed by your visa as well as making sure it fits in with your course. It is a criminal offence with serious penalties to work more hours than permitted or undertake a type of work not permitted under your visa conditions.

Should I work while I study?

The information on this page is about visa restrictions on working for Student visas granted under the Student Route or Tier 4 visas (issued before that route was renamed in October 2020) both referred to as 'Student visa' below. You will also need to balance the opportunities of possible part time work experience with your own wellbeing and the demands of study and keep to University guidelines .

Special note if you have both a Student Visa and a European Health Insurance Card . Some EHIC holders might be eligible for reimbursement of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) paid as part of your Student Visa application. However this refund may only be available if you do not work or intend to work in the UK. For a more detailed explanation see our information on IHS .

If you have a Student visa for full-time degree level study

Your student visa sticker or your Biometric Residence Permit card should indicate that you have restricted work permission, for example:

• Work limited 20 hrs p/w term time
• Work 20 hrs max in term-time
• Work limit as in PBS rules 20hrs p/w

If you have a Student visa granted for full-time degree level study but it does not appear to have this limited permission, for example it states ‘no work’, or refers to a 10 hour limit, contact the University visa advisers to find out if this should be changed.

You are not allowed to work at all if you have a Student visa to study a course part-time.

Working a maximum of 20 hours per week

Note that this is a maximum so during term time (or for research students during any period except when you are taking agreed holiday – see below) you must not exceed 20 hours in any week (Monday to Sunday) even if you work fewer hours in other weeks. If you are working in more than one job, the total hours across your different jobs must not exceed 20 hours. You must also include any unpaid work. All work that you do while you are physically in the UK is subject to the employment restriction, even if your employer is based outside of the UK. ‘On-call’ hours where you are not actively engaged in work but where you have to be in a particular place that count as employment under UK working time regulations count towards the 20 hour limit.

Periods during your course when your hours of work are unrestricted

If you are an undergraduate or studying a taught masters course you are allowed to work more than 20 hours per week outside of University full term time or, if this applies to your course, extended term . However, if your course formally requires you to be engaged in scheduled study during what would otherwise be vacation, for example:

• preparing for and taking an exam shortly after the end of term
• undertaking a summer module
• writing a dissertation to be submitted during vacation

then you should treat the 20 hour a week employment restriction as applying until you have completed the work. Check your undergraduate  or graduate  course handbook for further information.

If you are a postgraduate research student (Masters by Research or DPhil) you are only allowed to exceed 20 hours a week during your course if you are in a period of holiday agreed in advance with your departmental supervisor in accordance with the University’s paid work guidelines . Your supervisor may also confirm you can be on leave for this purpose after you have submitted your thesis, if there is then a short period during which you are not required to do any academic work before you need to start preparation for your viva. Your employer will need evidence that you are allowed to work more than 20 hours a week for the 'right-to-work' check they are required to carry out. Your supervisor can write you a letter for this purpose using the University's example  template .

Working before the start of your course and after completion

The Home Office have confirmed that you may work unrestricted hours between your visa validity start date and the start of your course.

After you have completed your course, including all work to hand in and assessments, you are allowed to work full-time while your Student visa is still valid. If you are eligible to apply for a further visa and you make this application before the expiry of your current visa, your Student visa work conditions will continue while the application is pending. However, some types of work visa applications make provision for your work permission associated with that visa type to start before the visa is granted. This applies in certain circumstances if you have applied for the Start-up visa, Skilled worker visa or the Doctorate Extension Scheme – you should check the provisions for the relevant visa type.

Research students will have completed their degree when they receive ‘leave to supplicate’. Before this point, you will only be able to work for more than 20 hours per week if your supervisor can confirm you are on holiday – see the section above, ‘periods during your course when your hours of work are unrestricted’.

If you complete your course early , that is, before the end date given on the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies issued for your Student visa application, your visa may be shortened by the Home Office. You should not work longer following early completion than the length of extra time given on your visa originally after your expected course completion. For example, if you have had a Student visa visa for a two  year masters' course which included four extra months, and you complete the masters course 6 months earlier than expected, you should only work for a maximum of four months starting from your actual course completion date. Home Office information for employers says that it would be a breach of Student visa conditions to work longer than this.

Am I allowed to do a work placement?

You would be allowed to do a work placement that has been planned and arranged as an assessed part of your course and is referred to on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. You would need to arrange any other work experience placement or short internships for a vacation period if it involves working more than 20 hours a week.

What would happen to my work permission if I suspended study or withdrew from my course?

The Home Office has stated that your work permission depends on you being a current student so it ceases if you suspend or leave your course and you are not allowed to work at all.

Can I work as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer?

If you are elected to a student union sabbatical position during your course you are allowed to work full time in this post on your Student visa. Please inform the University’s Student Visa Compliance team because the University as your sponsor is required to notify the Home Office. If your period of office does not fall entirely within the validity of your current visa, you can extend your Student visa to cover it, and complete your course if necessary. UKCISA has helpful information on the visa implications of becoming a Sabbatical Officer.

Work that you are not allowed to do

Student visa holders are not allowed to:

• be self-employed, which includes free-lance, consultancy or casual work where you are not on the employer’s or an agency’s employee pay-roll
• fill a full-time, permanent vacancy except where you have completed your degree and have a Skilled worker visa application pending for a visa to do that job.
• work as a sports coach or professional sports person
• work as an entertainer, unless you are studying music and this is a professional performance arranged through the University as part of your course

Prohibition on engaging in business activity

In addition to other work restrictions, Student visa holders are not allowed to engage in business activity. The Home Office explains that you would be considered to be engaging in business activity if you are working for a business in which you have a financial or other significant beneficial interest in a capacity other than as an employee. Examples of business activity which is prohibited include but are not restricted to:

• setting up a business as a sole trader or under a partnership arrangement and that business is either trading or establishing a trading presence;
• being employed by a company in which you hold shares of 10% or more (including where the shares are held in a trust for you); or
• working for a company where you also hold a statutory role, such as a director.

The only exception to the business prohibition is if you have a pending application for a  Start-up visa , you may work on developing your business.

What are the work restrictions for Doctorate Extension Scheme visa holders?

For this information, see our page on working after your studies .

Checks that an employer will need to carry out before you start work

Your employer must check that you are allowed to do the amount and type of work that they are offering. They will need to see and record your visa in your passport or your Biometric Residence Permit card, or ask you to share your digital status code - see the UK government's page,  Prove your right to work to an employer . Employers cannot accept a visa affixed in an expired passport as evidence of your right to work. Your employer should ask you to provide evidence of your term and vacation dates to clarify when you may work more than 20 hours per week. This could be in the form of:

• a printout from the University’s website showing these dates
• a copy of a letter to you or an original letter direct to the employer from the University confirming the dates you are on vacation. For graduate research students we recommend asking your supervisor to write you the letter on departmental notepaper.

The UK government has published guidance for employers on carrying out right to work checks .

To find out more about your employer’s responsibilities, visit the UKCISA website .

Working for the University or an Oxford college

You may be offered part time work at one or more University departments or Oxford University Colleges or Permanent Private Halls , in administrative, teaching or other roles. You can read the University’s information on employing students . You will be asked to complete a Student Employment Declaration before starting work. As well as your own responsibility to ensure that you don't breach your Student visa work conditions, the University's Staff Immigration Team will collate information on hours worked to ensure that you are not being employed in excess of the 20 hour limit without permission. This is particularly important if you are working for two or more colleges or departments.

The College Student Visa Monitoring Service

Planned working hours will be recorded and collated by the College Student Visa Monitoring Service which provides an online time-sheet system, which students and/or their employing colleges can use to record hours on a weekly basis.

The service will not provide employing colleges with details of a student’s other employment, except to highlight the number of hours that are being worked each week.       

If you are going to be working for a college, you should receive an email confirming they have informed the College Student Visa Monitoring Service. If you are worried you haven't received confirmation, speak to your employing college or email the service at  [email protected]

Obtaining a National Insurance Number and paying tax

You must apply for a National Insurance Number (NINo) if you start working in the UK (including any form of teaching at Oxford). A NINo is an individual account number used for recording National Insurance and tax contributions from your pay. If you are thinking about starting work you can apply for a NINo before you get a job. To get a NINo you need to apply online from the government website . After you apply, you will receive an email with your application reference number and the email will tell you if you need to provide further proof of your identity. It can take up to 4 weeks to get your NINo after you have proved your identity. 

You will be liable for UK income tax on employment earnings above the specified personal allowance set each year. Your employer will deduct this from your wages and show the amount on your wage slip. If you pay too much tax, you will be able to claim a refund.

If you have a visa as a Standard Visitor or were given permission on arrival to enter the UK as a Standard Visitor 

Visitors are completely prohibited from working in the UK, either paid or unpaid.

Dependants’ permission to work

A family member over 18 who is eligible for and has obtained a visa as your Student visa dependant will be able to work without an hours limit or be self employed in the UK. Family members are not allowed to work as a doctor or dentist in training if their visa or BRP lists this restriction (subject to exceptions), or as a sportsperson/coach.

Implications of working in breach of conditions

It is a criminal offence to do any work for which you do not have permission under your visa, including working over the 20 hours per week when that limit applies, or doing prohibited types of work. As well as the possibility of conviction of a prison sentence of up to six months or an unlimited fine, a breach could lead to removal from the UK or refusal of future immigration applications and/or a time bar on returning to the UK. An employer who gives you work which breaches the conditions of your visa, or who does not properly check your right to work may be committing an offence.

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Working in the UK on a Student Visa

Information about student eligibility to work on a Student or Tier 4 Visa, restrictions on the type of work and how to look for work.

Restrictions on type of work

Where you are on a Student or Tier 4 visa, both during and after your studies, you are not permitted to:

• be self-employed or engaged in business activity
• fill a full-time permanent vacancy/graduate level role (unless it is a post as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer)
• be employed as a doctor/dentist in training (If you submitted the application for the Student visa you currently have on or after 1 December 2020, you will not be subject to this restriction) or 
• be employed as a professional sportsperson, coach or entertainer

Professional sportsperson

You are not permitted to work as a professional sportsperson. It is important that you check UKVI's definition of a professional sportsperson before you provide any services or take part in sporting activities.

• UKVI's definition (pages 92 & 93 of Student Guidance)

Provided your visa was issued after 1 October 2019, you are permitted to do the following:

• Play or coach sports as an “amateur” in a charity event
• Play or coach sports as an “amateur” whilst studying at degree level or above at the University
• Play or coach sports as part of a work placement which is part of your course.

An “amateur” is defined as ‘a person who engages in a sport or creative activity solely for personal enjoyment and who is not seeking to derive a living from the activity’.

Sports scholarships

This will not be considered to breach your work restrictions where you are:

• Studying at degree level or above; and
• You are required to play or coach sport in exchange for receiving the scholarship; and
• The scholarship is awarded for playing or coaching sport at an amateur level for The University of Sheffield or British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS).

If you are unsure how this applies to your situation, contact International Student Support:

Contact International Student Support

Eligibility to work during study

Where you are studying in the UK on a Visitor or Short-Term Student Visa you are not permitted to work at any time, including unpaid/voluntary work.

Where you are on a Student or Tier 4 Student Visa, your eligibility to work will be outlined on your visa vignette or BRP card, and in your visa decision letter.

If you are a taught student, you can find information on standard term and vacation dates on our 'Current and future semester dates' web page .

'Vacation' includes the periods before your course starts and after your course ends.

If you are studying a course where formal teaching on the course starts earlier than the standard start of semester, you are considered to be in term-time as soon as teaching starts, and you must ensure that you restrict your working hours during these weeks in line with the working hours restriction stated on your visa.

Where your course does not follow the standard vacation dates above, you must ensure you do not work more than the weekly hours permitted in term-time, even if many other courses are in vacation time at the same time.

If you have non-standard vacation times, or are unsure when your vacation periods occur, you must contact us for further advice before working full-time.

Where you are a taught student, and formal teaching on your course starts the week following intro week (ie the standard start of semester), you are also considered to be in a vacation period during orientation week and intro week.

You are not considered to be in vacation time where you are on a leave of absence from your course during term-time. Also, if you withdraw from your course, you are not considered be in vacation time, and you must also cease employment because your work rights are linked to your status in the UK as a student. You will no longer be a student if you withdraw.

English language teaching students

• During vacations you can work full-time.
• During term time you can work up to 10 hours per week.

Undergraduate students

• During term time you can work up to 20 hours per week.

Taught postgraduate students

• During Christmas and Easter vacations you can work full-time (before doing so you must read the additional guidance below)
• If you are on a two-year masters course and you have no studies for the summer period between your first and second years, then this is considered vacation and you can work full-time.

Postgraduate research students

• You are considered to be in term time all year unless you have written permission from your supervisor to take a period of annual leave.
• Any annual leave must be agreed by your supervisor. During this time you can work full-time

To avoid accidentally breaching your work conditions you should only work full-time when you have a full week of annual leave, running from Monday to Sunday.

If you have a mix of study and vacation days in any given “week” (eg because you only take a few days of annual leave, or start/end your vacation partway through the week), you should stick to the 20-hour working hours limit for that week.

If you work at the University, we will only allow you to work full-time for each full week (Monday to Sunday) that is covered by vacation, otherwise you will be limited to your term-time hours.

Proving your right to work

From 6 April 2022, employers can no longer accept biometric residence cards or permits as evidence of your right to work in the UK. Instead, you must obtain a ‘share code’ from UKVI which you can then give to the employer so they can then do their checks online. 

• How to obtain a share code from UKVI

See also our detailed guide (PDF, 96KB) on how employers check your right to work in different circumstances.

If an employer needs evidence of term dates so they know when you may be allowed to work more hours than the restriction stated on your visa, along with your share code, you can provide either: 

• a printout from the University's website which confirms term and vacation dates; or
• a Certificate of Student Status that confirms this.

Current and future semester dates

Whether you are considered to be in a vacation period or not is determined by the type of course you are studying. See the ‘Eligibility to work during study’ section of this page for more information on this.

Where your employer requires further confirmation of your entitlement to work, they can contact the  Home Office Employers’ Helpline .

Work placements

Many degree courses will offer you the opportunity to do a Placement Year or an Industrial Placement Year, subject to meeting certain visa conditions.

For more information, visit:

Doing a work placement on a student visa

Volunteering and voluntary work

You are permitted to volunteer in the UK on a Tier 4 or Student visa. Hours spent volunteering will not be included in your permitted working hours.

As a volunteer you

• do not have a contract of employment
• do not take the place of an employee
• do not receive payment
• usually help a registered charity or voluntary or public sector organisation

You are permitted to undertake voluntary work in the UK. Voluntary work will be counted in your permitted working hours.

As a voluntary worker you

• are usually paid in some form
• often have a contract with an employer

You should check with your organisation whether your work is regarded as unpaid volunteer work or paid voluntary work.

Working on a Student Visa after the end of your course

The following advice has been revised from 15 November 2023. This follows UKVI clarification about when they will consider a student to have completed their course.

Eligibility

If your Tier 4 Student Visa remains valid once you’ve completed your course you can work full-time, within the following limits:

• You cannot fill a full-time permanent vacancy (other than on a recognised Foundation Programme)
• You cannot be self-employed
• You cannot be employed as a professional sportsperson, coach or entertainer
• You can work unlimited hours once you’re considered to have completed your course, but not in a permanent role.

Most students will be granted four months 'wrap up' time after the end of their course. This is usually the course end date as stated in your last CAS. For most students this will be the same as your course end date on your student record. You’re allowed to work during this time as it’s considered vacation time.

You can get a letter from SSiD which will confirm your official course end date which you can use to prove your right to work full time to employers. 

When will you be considered to have completed your studies

• For PhD students, course completion means you have submitted your final E copy of your thesis after corrections.
• For Masters Students this will be the official course end date as per your last CAS. This is normally the registration end date as shown on your official student status certificate. It is not the date you submit your final dissertation, which could be sooner.
• For Undergraduate students this will be the official course end date as per your last CAS. This is normally the registration end date as shown on your official student status certificate.

An employer's guide to right to work checks also confirms your right to work after you have completed your course. This can be useful to refer to if employers are unsure about your right to work.

Repeating studies

If you later fail your exams and are repeating any modules or coursework during the wrap up period, you will be considered to be a term-time student and you should only work 20 hours per week.

If you are working, you should inform your employer as soon as possible, as you will no longer have the right to work on a full time basis.

If you complete your course early

If you complete your course early, we must report this to UKVI. This could result in your visa being curtailed to four months after the new course end date.

You should work for a maximum of four months after the completion of your course or until the end of your student Visa, whichever comes soonest.

The University can only report early completion when you have completed all academic studies and received your official results. We will inform you by email if we are doing this and you can start full-time work from that point. 

Taking a permanent role

You cannot start a full-time permanent role whilst holding a Student visa.

You may be able to start work full time for an employer in a permanent role if you’ve completed your degree and have made a Skilled Worker visa application. Check with your employer/sponsor.

Course completion in this scenario means the official course end date as per your CAS.

PhD students can apply for a skilled worker visa after 24 months of study but should only start working full time for the sponsor when the Skilled worker has been granted

SSiD can provide a Skilled Worker letter which confirms your official course dates for employers. 

If your Student visa was granted after 6 April 2022 , you can also start work full time in a permanent role if you have:

• successfully completed your course; and
• made a Graduate Immigration Route visa application

Successful completion is the date that you receive your official results, not the course completion date.

If your student visa was granted before 6 April 2022 , you must not start full-time work until your Graduate Route visa has been granted. 

For more information on post study work visa options, refer to our  Working in the UK after your studies page.

Tax and National Insurance

Where you are working in the UK, National Insurance will be automatically deducted from your wages.

Before you start your job, you must apply for a National Insurance Number which ensures your tax contributions are recorded against your name.

Where you earn over £12,500 your income may be taxable. Visit  the HM Revenue and Customs website  for more information.

Finding a job

The  Employability and Placements Hub   (student login required) can provide advice on working in the UK and help you find a job or voluntary position.

Check if your dependants can work in the UK

You can check if your dependants can work in the UK, and the types of work they can do on a Student Dependant visa, on our  Working in the UK as a dependant  web page.

Working in the UK during studies

Working while you are studying, how many hours you can work and the visa restrictions on working.

The webinar below presented by our IAG Team and Careers Team discusses working during your studies:

Normally working in the UK during your studies is permitted but there are restrictions on the type of work you can do. This includes how many hours per week you can work, depending on your level and mode of study.

You must check your visa to find out if you can work.

If your visa was issued outside the UK and states 'Work (and any changes) must be authorised' or a variation of this, then you have permission to work.

If you have extended your visa in the UK and have an ID card (a BRP), you may work if it states 'Restricted Work. P/T term time. F/T vacations' or a variation of this.

Visa restrictions on working

If you are studying full-time at degree level, during term-time you may not work more than 20 hours per week.

If you work more than 20 hours in any one week you will be breaching your visa and this could prevent you from obtaining a new visa in the future or completing your studies.

Your focus should be on your studies. The University of Liverpool recommends that all students work only 15 hours per week during term time.

During vacation time you are allowed to work full time.

You are not allowed to set up a business, be self-employed, provide services as a professional sportsperson or entertainer, or pursue a career by fulfilling a permanent full-time vacancy.

The UK Council for International Student Affairs has written a blog regarding working during studies, what is defined as 'self-employed' or an entertainer. It clarifies rules regarding being 'on call', private selling, income from digital and 'influencers', ad-hoc work such as couriering, amongst many other forms of income generation.

Taking a degree with a year in industry

If you are taking a degree that includes a year in industry placement, the placement can be full time as it is an integral and assessed part of your degree, therefore, considered study. The 20-hour work permission is in addition to the year in industry placement. You will remain on a student visa sponsored by the University for your year in industry.

Your school will provide a letter to your industry placement provider to confirm it forms part of the degree, see 'How can I prove my right to work?' for further details. 

What is classed as 'a week'?

UK Visas and Immigration define a week as 'any seven day period starting on a Monday'. Therefore, you cannot work more than 20 hours in any one Monday to Sunday period otherwise you would be in breach of the conditions of your visa.

If you are unsure if you might be in breach of this or have a general query, please contact us before undertaking the work .

What is term-time?

Term-time is any period in which you are regarded by the University as undertaking academic work, for example, attending classes, revising, researching or writing coursework, writing a dissertation or thesis.

Undergraduates and Postgraduate Taught students will have their vacation time  set by the University. Masters students should note that their vacation periods are the winter and spring vacations only (held over the Christmas and Easter period), as during the summer they are required to be completing their dissertations. Masters students course end date is as stipulated on the CAS and student record and are therefore in 'term-time' until this date, therefore, you must not work more than 20 hours per week until your official course end date.  

PhD and other research students must agree a vacation time with their supervisor in advance. 

Students repeating studies are still limited to 20 hours per week during term time.

How can I prove my right to work?

From the 6 th April 2022, when proving your right to work to an employer in the UK, all Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) holders will be required to generate a  sharecode online. Physically showing your BRP card to an employer is no longer accepted.

If you started employment before this date you do not need to show your right to work again as showing the physical BRP card was accepted at the time, however, your employer may request this if they are re-checking right to work or are being cautious with the new requirement.

A right to work check is simply the employer’s legal responsibility to check that those who are working for them have the legal right to do so and what the conditions to that work are e.g. that student visa holders can work but are limited to 20 hours per week during term time.

For more information click on the Employer's guide to right to work checks

In order to demonstrate your right to work please use the following link to get set up on the online portal and to generate a sharecode which you can give to employers. They can then use this to see your right to work in the UK - Prove your right to work to an employer - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

The university does not produce letters to students to confirm your right to work as it is a requirement of your employer to satisfy themselves of your entitlement and the UK government provide lots of information for employers to help them to do this.

We would advise you to obtain an  Enrolment Status letter  so your employer has evidence that you are still enrolled on a course of full time study. This along with your sharecode and a print out from the website confirming your  term dates are all an employer needs to see. 

The only situation where the University should provide a formal letter to your employer is where your employment forms part of a work placement which is an official part of your course. This is confirmed on page 47 of the employers guide above.  This would be produced by your School or department. Each School has a member of staff responsible for co-ordinating placements and we would recommend asking them for further guidance. 

National Insurance (NI) number

If you intend to work, or soon after you get a job, you will need a National Insurance (NI) number.

If you have a biometric residence permit (BRP) , you might have a National Insurance (NI) number already - it will be printed on the back of your BRP if you do.

You cannot be paid until you have an NI number.

For information about National Insurance numbers, please visit the UK Government's website .

How to apply

You can apply for a National Insurance number online by visiting the UK government website here . You will need to prove your identity when you apply. 

National Insurance number application line: Telephone: 0800 141 2075 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

After you apply, it can take up to eight weeks to get your National Insurance number.

You will not need to have a face-to-face interview at the moment because of coronavirus.

Finding a job

Jobs are advertised in a number of places. You can find information about looking for employment and current vacancies as well as how our Careers Service can help you on the Careers and Employability Service website .

Employment rights

All employers must pay their employees a  minimum wage which has been set by the UK Government.

Do not accept money paid to you directly in cash, also known as 'cash in hand'. Wages should normally be paid directly into your bank account and you should always receive a proper payslip containing information about tax and National Insurance contributions.

For more information on your rights and the responsibilities your employer owes you, please visit the Careers and Employability Service website .

Working after you've finished your studies

On completing your studies you may work full time but only until your visa expires, provided this is not more than four months from the end of your course.

The same conditions apply, and so you cannot accept a permanent, full-time vacancy during this time.

If your visa expiry date is more than four months from the end date of your course, please contact us for advice.

If you wish to continue working in the UK beyond these four months, you must change your visa to one of those in the employment categories .

For PhD students, you are not deemed to have finished your studies until you have submitted your final thesis (this means that you have completed your viva and any necessary corrections). You therefore cannot work full-time after your initial submission whilst waiting for a viva date. 

Speak to a International Advice and Guidance advisor

If you are unable to find an answer to your query on our web pages email [email protected] or book an online confidential one-one appointment.

Working on a student visa in the UK

Can you work in the uk as an international student how many hours per week can you work we have all you need to know about the employment rules in the uk for international students.

Grace McCabe

Now that you’ve organised your student visa for the UK , it’s worth knowing if you can work while you are studying, as well as how many hours and what kind of work you can do. 

How many hours can I work as an international student in the UK? 

International students can work in the UK if they are on a student or Tier 4 visa. If you are in the UK on a visitor or short-term visa, work is not allowed at any time, including unpaid positions and volunteering. 

Step into your future: attend our events

Once your student visa is approved, you will receive a biometric residence permit (BRP) card in your decision letter, which will outline the type of work you are allowed to do.  

Undergraduate students are allowed to work full-time outside their university term time. During term time, when lessons are taking place, they are allowed to work up to 20 hours each week. 

Taught postgraduate students are allowed to work full-time during the Christmas, Easter and summer holidays. However, the academic calendar is often shorter for postgraduate students so you must ensure you still attend all formal studying and teaching sessions over this term break. Like undergraduates, you have the choice to work up to 20 hours a week but have added term time conditions in the summer term after sending in your final dissertation. 

Postgraduate research students are considered to be “in term time” throughout the entire year and can work up to 20 hours per week. You can take a period of annual leave but must organise written permission from your supervisor and with permission you could then work full-time during this period away from your studies. 

English language course students are allowed to work full-time outside term time. This includes the time before and after your course begins and ends, as long as your student visa is still valid. During term time, these students can then work up to 10 hours each week. 

International students in the UK on a student visa may also take part in work placements, but only when it is related to your studies. The placement must make up no more than 50 per cent of your course duration and you will need a letter from your academic adviser confirming that your position follows student immigration rules.

Work placements with professional performance will not be against student immigration rules as long as you are studying music, drama or dance at degree level or higher. The placement must have been arranged with your university and performing must be proven to be a required aspect of your course. 

What type of work is not allowed on a student visa in the UK? 

Before you start university, during your studies and after you graduate, as long as you are in the UK on a student or Tier 4 visa, the following work is not allowed:

• Being a professional sportsperson, coach or entertainer 
• Being self-employed or part of business discussions or enterprise 
• Working as a doctor or dentist in training 
• Working in a full-time permanent position 
• Working in a graduate-level role (unless it’s as a student union staff member) 

You might be allowed to work as a self-employed individual if you apply for a Start-Up visa with support from your university and you submit this application before your student visa expires. You can read more about the individual rules using the Student and Child Student guidance document from the UK Home Office. 

What not to do when applying for your student visa   Everything international students need to know about UK student visas   Bringing family with you on a UK student visa  

Can I take part in sports or study with sports scholarship as an international student in the UK? 

Students in the UK on a Tier 4 visa may take part in the following activities as long as they are an amateur (taking part for personal enjoyment and not for a living):

• Play or coach in charity events 
• Play or coach sports during a work placement as part of your course 
• Play or coach when studying at university from degree level upwards

Additionally, if your studies are being funded by a sports scholarship you can play or coach in exchange for your scholarship while completing your degree without breaking your student visa rules.

How do I prove my right to work in the UK as an international student? 

From 6 April 2022, businesses are no longer accepting permits as evidence of your right to work in the UK. You must now contact the UK Visas and Immigration team to secure a “share code” that will then be given to your employer. 

You may also be asked to supply your university term dates for your course and academic department to prove when you are allowed to work more hours during the holidays. 

Can I volunteer on a student visa in the UK?

Brexit has led to some changes to working rules on other visas, but student visas continue to allow anyone from inside or outside the European Union who is in the UK on a student visa to work, following the rules below. Your English language skills may need to be of a certain level to be hired for part-time work, however this will be up to your employer. 

Students with Tier 4 visas are allowed to volunteer in the UK but the hours will count towards the weekly quota mentioned above. 

As a volunteer it is important to remember that: 

• You do not have a contract 
• You do not fill a permanent position 
• You are not an employee 
• You do not receive payment 

Volunteering is usually to help a charity or part of the public sector. If you are volunteering for a business, it is important to check whether they see you as an unpaid volunteer or a paid voluntary worker as the latter may not be allowed under your student visa. 

Can I work in the UK after I complete my studies under a student visa?

When you complete your degree, you will be given a time frame during which your visa will still be valid. You can work full-time during this period because you will have no more classes to attend. However, you are still restricted in terms of the type of work you are allowed to do. 

To allow you to work in other areas after you complete your studies, you will need to apply for a new visa under a different category. This will depend on the work you want to do and how long you want to stay in the UK. You can read about  post-study work visas here. Each new category has new conditions so read all the information carefully and check in with the careers team at your university because they will be able to help you with individual cases. 

Will I pay tax and national insurance when working in the UK as an international student? 

The short answer is yes. In the UK, tax and national insurance payments are taken automatically from your wages before they are paid out to you. This means there is no need to fill out any tax forms later. Before you start working you need to apply for a National Insurance Number to set up this process. You can earn up to £12,570 annually before paying tax. You can read more information about tax payments at HM Revenue and Customs .

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Student Visas

Working in the uk during your studies.

International students who hold a Student/Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK are subject to working restrictions imposed by UKVI (UK Visas & Immigration). Your  Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)  card or vignette indicates the maximum number of hours you can work during term-time. This includes both paid and voluntary work. All students are prohibited from engaging in business and from self-employment, nor are they allowed to provide services as a professional sportsperson or entertainer. You can find further information on the UKCISA webpages .

Breaching any of these conditions and taking up work where you do not have the appropriate permission is considered illegal working and may affect your immigration record and have other serious consequences. Please read the “What are the risks should a student work in excess of their conditions?” section lower down to learn more.

Student/Tier 4 visa students and working for the University - compliance with UKVI restrictions

If you take casual employment at the University of Bristol you will be employed through the  Temporary Staffing Service  (TSS). TSS will assess all students' right to take up a work assignment and document it appropriately.

You are allowed to work in the UK if:

• Your Student/Tier 4 BRP or vignette in passport states 'Work 10hrs max in term-time' or 'Work 20hrs max in term-time', or;
• Your BRP states 'Restricted Work, no work as a sportsperson’ (usually appears on Dependant BRPs), or;
• You are from the EU/EEA/Switzerland, and you have a settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
• You have immigration permission in a different category that allows you to work in the UK

Working limits for Student/Tier 4 visa students

Undergraduate students.

Your BRP should state 20 hours per week, during term-time. If it does not, this is likely to be an error – we can advise you how to correct this. The 20-hour limit would apply to all.

As an undergraduate student you can work full-time during the University holidays as per  the Dates webpage . You can also work full-time after the course end date stated in your most recent CAS if you have finished your studies.

Please note that the University’s Temporary Staffing Service guidelines recommend only 15 hours per week, during term-time.

Volunteering is not subject to the 20-hour time limit. There is a distinction between unpaid/voluntary work and volunteering. Please visit this UKCISA webpage  for clarification. Most unpaid internships would be regarded as voluntary work rather than volunteering.

Postgraduate Taught Students

Your BRP should state 20 hours per week, during term-time. If it does not, this is likely to be an error – we can advise you how to correct this. The 20-hour limit would apply to all the jobs you may be doing, including unpaid/voluntary work.

As a postgraduate taught student you can work full-time during the Easter and Christmas University holidays as per  the Dates webpage . Summer holidays do not apply to postgraduate taught students as that is considered term-time when you work on your final project. You therefore must keep to the 20-hour limit during the summer months.

Working after studies, you can work full-time after both your submission date and CAS end date have passed. This means that i) if you submit later than your CAS end date e.g. because you have had an academic extension, you must wait until after your submission date to work full time and ii) if you submit before your CAS end date you will have to wait until your CAS end date has passed to be able to work full time.  

Postgraduate Research Students

As postgraduate research student you would get the same holiday allowance as University staff rather than as taught degree students. You get 25 working days of annual leave a year plus closure dates as defined on the University’s Dates website under “University closure days (CD) and bank holidays (BH)”. Summer holidays, and extended Easter and Christmas breaks under ‘Key Academic Dates’ do not apply to you.

This means that you can only work full-time during any complete closure weeks (Monday to Sunday) and during annual leave arranged with your supervisor as per the PGR annual leave policy. Any leave taken will have to be full calendar weeks (5 working days) in order for the limit to not apply.

It is also possible to combine the closure days with annual leave to make a whole week’s holiday. For example, Easter Monday is a Bank Holiday, followed by a University Closure day on the Tuesday. You can arrange 3 days’ annual leave on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and work more than 20 hours a week during that whole week.

International Foundation Students

Your BRP should state 10 hours per week, during term-time. If it does not, this is likely to be an error – we can advise you how to correct this to comply with your visa conditions. The 10-hour limit would apply to all the jobs you may be doing, including unpaid/voluntary work.

As an International Foundation student you can work full-time during the University holidays as per  the Dates webpage . You can also work full-time after the course end date stated in your most recent CAS if you have finished your studies.

Volunteering is not subject to the 10-hour time limit. There is a distinction between unpaid/voluntary work and volunteering. Please visit this UKCISA webpage  for clarification. Most unpaid internships would be regarded as voluntary work rather than volunteering.

Pre-sessional students

As an Pre-sessional student you can work full-time during the University holidays as per  the Dates webpage . You can also work full-time after the course end date stated in your most recent CAS if you have finished your studies.

If you require a letter for your employer giving information about your working conditions as a Tier 4/Student visa holder, please visit this page for more information about how you can request this.

Find out how to contact us . 

Please note that the 20 or 10 hour per week limitations are  per week  – the periods worked cannot be averaged over a month or any other period. This limitation exists for both work within the University and for outside organisations, so employers of visa students should also remind those students of these restrictions if aware of work undertaken outside of the University. The permitted number of hours must fit into a 7 day period starting on a Monday and ending on a Sunday.

What types of work are allowed under Student/Tier 4 visa?

There are various types of work, such as paid and unpaid work; paid and unpaid work placements undertaken as part of a course of study or period of study; self-employment; and engaging in business activity.

As a Tier 4/Student visa holder the types of work you can undertake are restricted to paid and unpaid work as an employee of a company/organisation; and paid and unpaid work placements undertaken as part of a course of study or period of study. Student/Tier 4 students are prohibited from self-employment; and engaging in business activity, nor are they allowed to provide services as a professional sportsperson (including a sports coach) or entertainer.

Working on a contracting basis can be considered self- employment. This government page provides some information on the subject. 

As the way people work is evolving, there are certain activities that do not fit into the traditional categories described above. We recommend you read and read UKCISA’s  Blog: A working definition as it addresses a range of non-standard scenarios, including working while not physically in the UK.

Official Work Placements

Paid and unpaid work placements undertaken as part of a course of study are separate from paid or unpaid employment, so can be done simultaneously. A student can therefore work up to 20 hours per week in casual employment with an employer outside of their placement, whilst on a work placement that is an assessed, integral part of a course. 

A work placement that is an integral and assessed part of a course is usually organised through the University and reported to the UKVI as an official placement by the Student Visa Compliance team. This is usually, but not always, a placement undertaken as part of a Year in Industry, or as part of degree in Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary medicine. Provided the placement is reported to the UKVI, such work is not subject to the limit on the number hours as it is then considered to be part of your course.

What are the risks should a student work in excess of their conditions?

If a student is found to be in breach of their working conditions, the student could be subject to curtailment of their visa and deportation, which has happened in the past for students at other institutions. It is also a criminal offence for students to exceed their working hours and an employer can be fined, so the implications can be very serious.

If the University becomes aware of a breach in working hours, we would need to make an assessment as to whether to continue to sponsor the student’s Student/Tier 4 visa. If you disclose any details to us that lead us to believe that you have broken the conditions of your visa, the University also has the obligation to report this to UKVI as this is one of our duties as a Student/Tier 4 visa Sponsor. Please read our  Student visa essential information  page for further details.

What can affect a student's working permissions?

Suspension and withdrawal.

Should a student withdraw from their course or suspend their studies for longer than 60 days, our sponsorship of that student would cease and the student's visa will eventually be cancelled by the UKVI. The UKVI will usually shorten the visa to 60 days from the date the process the University's notification. The right to work in the UK will cease after the adjusted visa expiry date. As the UKVI do not always serve the notice in a reliable way, it is not always possible to tell when exactly the visa will expire in these cases. It would therefore be safest to stop working 60 days after you receive the reporting email from the Student Visa Compliance team as the UKVI may action the cancellation at that point. 

Early Completion of the Course

A student who has successfully completed their course early and is reported as an early completer to the UKVI by the Student Visa Compliance team retains the right to work for the relevant length of time following their course completion (usually four months). If you are completing your studies early but the qualification is not the one your CAS was issued for, please contact us to find out how this may impact your working conditions. 

Extending your Course End Date

If your course end date is extended past the date that was stated in your CAS, we strongly advise that you do not exceed your term-time working limit (20 or 10 hours). You will still be considered as being in term-time, especially if your registration status is ‘Registered’. If after finishing studies you learn that you will have an extension/resubmission/major corrections or any other academic event that will extend your course end date, we advise you observe the term-time working limit as soon as you find out about this. You should not exceed the working hours limit if you have been issued a new CAS to extend your Student visa, as the University is sponsoring you for a visa, which implies you are a full-time student in term-time.

Students in the UK on a Visitor visa

You cannot undertake any work whatsoever, whether paid, unpaid or voluntary. This includes work placements, which are not allowed even if part of your course.

Further information

• Visit the  UK Council for International Student Affairs website  for further details and read their  Blog: A working definition
• Read the  Home Office Employer's Guide to Right to Work checks
• To apply for a National Insurance Number, please visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number
• Contact our  Careers Service  if you require help with finding a job
• If you are concerned about labour exploitation or modern day slavery, for yourself or someone else, please see this link:  https://www.gla.gov.uk/media/7947/spot-the-signs-prevent-handout-a5.pdf 

Working in the UK with a Student visa

If you have a Student visa for the University of Westminster, your right to work will appear either on your visa vignette (the sticker in your passport), your Biometric Residence Permit card (BRP), or your electronic visa (in the email you received when your visa was granted). You can also check your right to work online at the  Government website .

If you are studying a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree course, including Study Abroad students with a Student visa, your documents should confirm that you can work up to 20 hours per week in term time. If you are studying for a qualification below degree level (e.g. a pre-sessional course), you will be given the right to work up to 10 hours per week. In either case, you can work above the set limit during the academic vacation periods as well as before your course starts and after it ends – see the below section on working full time, which explains when you are permitted to take on more hours.

You must not work if your passport sticker, email/letter, or BRP card says “No work” or “Work prohibited”, as this would be a breach of your immigration conditions and a criminal offence. Please contact Student Advice if your visa was granted without the right to work, as this may be an error that needs correcting.

Types of work you can and cannot do

You can do most kinds of work, but you  must not :

•  be self-employed 
•  engage in a business activity
•  take a permanent full-time job
•  be employed as a professional sportsperson or sports coach 
•  be employed as an entertainer 
•  be a doctor or dentist in training

Although the above list may seem straightforward, there are grey areas. 

What if you want to sell things online, do gig economy jobs, or volunteer? 

Please have a look at a very helpful article form the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) which goes into more detail on these matters:  Blog: Working Definition .

Weekly limits on work: 10 and 20 hours

Your visa documents and the decision email you received when your visa was granted will confirm your weekly work limit. This should be a maximum of 20 hours per week for students studying an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree course and a maximum of 10 hours per week for students studying below the degree level.

A 'week' is defined in the Immigration Rules as ‘a period of 7 days beginning with a Monday’. You must make sure that your working hours and work pattern fits this definition. We advise that you keep detailed records of how many hours you work each day so that you can be sure you are not in danger of breaching your work conditions. The University has an obligation to report any breaches in your working conditions to UK Visas and Immigration.

Both paid and unpaid work count towards the weekly limit. If your employer is outside the UK, the hours of work undertaken whilst you are physically in the UK also count towards the limit.

Working full-time

Students who have a restricted right to work (such as, 20 hours per week in term time) can work additional hours outside of term time. There is no upper limit on the number of hours you can work outside of term time. However, it is important to understand when exactly you are allowed to work more hours.

Before your course starts

Please check your CAS to see the course start date attached to your visa. If you arrive in the UK before that date and wish to work, you are allowed to work above the usual weekly limit during this short period. However, you will be bound by the weekly limit from the start date of your course as stated on your CAS.

During the academic vacation periods 

Students can also work more hours during the academic vacation periods. These are specifically marked as ‘vacation’ on your  term calendars  – it is important that you check the correct dates for your course.

Undergraduate students normally have three vacation breaks in a year, and these are the Christmas break, the spring break, and the summer break.

Master’s degree students have only two vacation breaks and these are the Christmas break and the spring break. Master’s degree students are not allowed to work full-time during summer.

PhD students are usually restricted to working 20 hours per week during the whole academic year and should speak to their School to discuss if they have any vacation periods.

After your course ends 

Most students on a degree course that lasts at least 12 months will have a Student visa which expires four months after their course end date. If your visa extends beyond the end of your studies, you can work full-time during that extra period if:

• You have completed all your studies (coursework, exams, and dissertation)
• The official end date of your course as shown on your CAS has passed (this is the date the UK Visas and Immigration Office will have recorded as the last date of your course)
• You have a valid Student visa

If you submitted your coursework and dissertation but the course end date on your CAS has not yet passed, you must not work above your weekly limit.

If the end date on your CAS has passed but you are still studying, for example, due to referrals or deferrals, you must also not work above your weekly limit.

Proving your right to work to an employer

You will need to provide your employer with a valid share code to prove your right to work in the UK. You will be able to generate the share code after logging in on the  Government website .

If you want to work above your weekly limit, the employer will also need to see evidence that you are not in term time when they give you additional hours. You can generate a University letter with the details of your term dates and vacation periods via your Student Record, as explained on  our website .

The University will not issue a letter confirming that you can work full-time. Your share code will confirm your general right to work, and a university letter will confirm your term and vacation dates. Together, this will provide your employer with information on when you can work full time.

If you are unable to generate a share code, for example, because you have a pending visa application and your last visa has expired, your employer will be able to check your right to work  online  or by calling the Employer Enquiry helpline on 0300 790 6268.

Work placements and internships

Some students take a work placement as a part of their degree course. 

If your work placement is an assessed and integral part of your course, and the University informs the UK Visas and Immigration that you are taking a work placement, you will be permitted to work full time on your placement plus additional 20 hours per week in other employment. 

However, before taking on any additional work, it is very important that you check with the University that your work placement indeed meets the relevant criteria. For instance, a year-long work placement which has been authorised by the University and which forms an integral and assessed part of your course and extends your course by a year will likely meet the criteria. By contrast, a work placement which you organised yourself to help with the collection of data for your dissertation research, or for any other reason where the placement isn’t an integral and assessed part of the course, will likely not meet the criteria (and, therefore, would need to fall within the 20-hour limit). If the placement or internship you take is not an assessed and integral part of your course which has been approved by the University and reported to the UK Visas and Immigration, you will not be permitted to work above the usual weekly limit.

Please note that including a work placement to your course may impact your Student visa. Please contact Student Advice to discuss this further.

Working after your studies

If you finish your studies and still have time left on your Student visa, you may be able to work full time during this period. Please see the above tab on working full time for details on when exactly you can take on additional hours.

If you want to extend your stay in the UK beyond the current validity of your visa, you will need to check if there is another visa type you are eligible to apply for.

Many students are interested in applying for the Graduate Route visa which allows them to stay in the UK for a further period of two or three years to work. You can find more information about this visa and the eligibility criteria on our Graduate Route visa page .

There are also other visas options, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which you may be interested to learn about. We recommend to check the UKCISA website which provides a comprehensive guide on options for working in the UK after your studies.

If anything is unclear or you have further questions about your right to work in the UK, please contact Student Advice .

Related Pages

Where are you from.

Entry requirements, visits and the representatives available for your country.

Contact the University of Westminster about international study.

Find out what to do before you arrive at the University.

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How Many Hours Can a Student Legally Work in the UK?

In General by Think Student Editor April 12, 2021 Leave a Comment

As you get older, more opportunities  open up  for you – maybe your parents will give you more freedom, so you can go out with friends, and that often goes hand in hand with buying food or shopping together.  In order to start spending your  hard earned  cash though, you have to actually earn it – luckily for you, there are many jobs out there available for students of all ages! If  you’re  a hard worker like me, you’ll be wondering how many hours you’re allowed to work to get the most amount of money.    

So, how many hours can a student legally work in the UK? The short answer is that the number of hours you can work depends on many factors, like your age, whether it is term-time or school holidays, and if you are an international student.  For students aged 13-14, 2 hours every weekday and Sunday with an extra 5 hours on Saturday is your lot.  15-16 year olds  are allowed 8 hours on a Saturday.  

I know that this makes the idea of getting a job seem unnecessarily complicated, but  don’t  be discouraged – in this article, I’ll discuss the different factors affecting the number of hours you can work, as well as giving you some tips on balancing a job and schoolwork.   

Table of Contents

What  A ffects the  N umber of  H ours  You   C an   W ork?   

Age is a very big factor in affecting the number of hours a student can legally work  in the UK. The youngest age that you can get a job is  13, and you can’t get a full-time job until  you’re 16, the minimum school leaving age.  If you’re still in school, you can only work  a maximum of two hours per day on a school day or a Sunday.    

It’s when you want to start working on a Saturday  or during school holidays that your age really affects the number of hours you can work.   

If you’re 13 or 14, you can only work  for  5 hours  on a Saturday, and a maximum of 25 hours a week during school holidays.  You can also only work for 5 hours on weekdays and Saturdays in school holidays.   

If you’re 15 or 16, the  number  of hours you can work on a Saturday is increased to  8 hours a day. The number of hours you can work during the school holidays also goes up, this time to  35 hours a week. During school holidays, you can work a maximum of 8 hours a day on weekdays or Saturdays.   

Whether you’re 13 or 16, the number of hours you can work on a Sunday  stays at 2 hours, no matter the time of year.  You are also entitled to  an hour ’s break  every 4 hours, at  least a fortnight  away from work every year, and you cannot work before 7am or after 7pm.   

Try to get a job with flexible hours .  This will make it easier to balance your education   with your  work, and  learn the best number of hours for you.  Becoming a writer here at Think Student also offers lots of flexibility!  

To see where I got this information,  here is the link . This website also has a useful table  that sums up all of the different hours you can work.   

Working as an  I nternational  S tudent  

If you are an international student  studying  at university, the number of hours you can work  may be dependent on your visa.  If y our visa has a  specified number of hours you can work on it, you can only work that number of hours.  There could also be restrictions on the kind of work you can do, which will also be specified on your visa.   

An example of  this is the Tier 4  visa,  which is the official UK  student  visa.  If you have this visa, you can usually work a maximum of 20 hours a week during term time  if you are studying a t degree level, and up to 10 hours a week during term time if you are studying at below degree level.   Outside of term, and in the holidays, you can work full time , whatever level you study at.   

The lowest level of visa required to work is a Tier 2 visa.  Without at least a Tier 2 visa,  you’re  not legally allowed to work for an employer  at all.  

Outside of your visa,  you’ll  want to have all the employability skills you can get to ensure the maximum chance of getting a job. For more info on both  visas and employability skills, make sure to check out  this page .  

Alternatively ,  this p a ge  goes into more detail  on visa tiers .   

What  J ob  O pportunities are  A vailable for  S tudents?   

Judging by all the restrictions on working hours for students, you’d be forgiven for thinking that there could  be a lot of restrictions on the type of job you can work as well, but there are actually a lot of different jobs  a student can do! Here,  I’ll  discuss a few, but for more ideas  and information , check out  this article .  

A job that you can do at any age is  working in the performing arts industry.  Good ideas for working in this industry include  becoming an actor or model.  However, you do need a performance licence for th ese jobs .  You can read more about performance licences and how to get one  here .  

B abysitting or pet sitting is also a good idea.  These kinds of jobs are also relatively easy to come by as you can  always start by asking family friends, relatives, or neighbours if they need a pet sitter or babysitter.  You could also get jobs washing cars like this, too.     

Working in retail, such as  in a restaurant as a waitress or shelf stocking in a supermarket, is also a popular one.  However, you might come across some restrictions here. For example, McDonald’s starts hiring teenagers when they reach 16, the school leaving age.   

Minimum wage is a key factor in deciding which jobs to apply for.  L ike with how many hours you can work, this depends on your age.  If you’re not of school leaving age, you’re not entitled to the National Minimum wage, but according to  StudentJob  UK ,  if you’re 14 or 15, you are entitled to a minimum of £4.35 an hour .  If  you’re  16 or 17, you’re entitled to a minimum of £4.62 an hour, according to  the UK government website .   

How to  B alance  S tudying with a  J ob  

Of course, getting a bit of extra cash and something to put on your CV is great, but it’s important not to let your grades suffer from it, especially if you’re sitting important exams like GCSEs and A-Levels. Here are some tips on how to  balance studying with a job:  

Do your homework as soon as it’s set, or as soon as possible.  Yeah, homework might not necessarily be fun, but it’ll be even less fun  – and ten times more stressful –  if  you end up with three essays due, on top of  shifts at work.  This is especially true if you have exams coming up – you don’t want  to have to juggle a ton of homework, shifts at work and revision.   

Draw up a timetable and stick to it.  Make a timetable  for every day of the week, blocking in the hours you spend at school and at work,  and put it somewhere you can see it every day, like next to your bed. Make sure you’ve included time for homework, revision, seeing family and friends, and hobbies or activities you enjoy.  It’s very important to stick to this timetable as well. To help you  focus when working, put away distractions like your phone . If listening to music helps you focus when working,   try searching ‘focus music’ on  YouTube . I especially like  this  one .  If you’re struggling with  motivating yourself to work, click  here  or  here  for two great Think   Student articles on the topic  

Try to revisit your notes every day, even when you don’t have exams coming up.  Just refreshing older topics by reading a page or two of your notes every night could help a lot when the time comes to start revising for your exams, as, for example, the topics you covered at the start of the year will be a  lot of  fresher in your mind,  so you  won’t  have to waste time trying to refresh them, you can just jump straight into revising them!  

Happy job hunting, everyone!  

Stay in the UK after you graduate

Many options are available for international graduates looking to stay in the UK after graduation. Below, we detail the UK government's Graduate Route visa and the Skilled Worker route specifically.

However, we recommend you do your research on the GOV.UK website to work out which visa best suits your current situation. There are lots of other options available, including short-term and long-term visas, and visas for specific types of employment, such as for healthcare workers.

What is the Graduate Route?

The UK’s Graduate Route welcomes international students to apply to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, upon graduation. International students who have successfully completed an undergraduate or master’s degree can apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after their studies. PhD graduates can apply to stay for up to three years.

This is a fantastic opportunity for international students who want to take their next steps into employment in the UK.

What are the benefits of the Graduate Route?

The Graduate Route is unsponsored, meaning you can use the time after you graduate to work, or look for work, at any skill level. You will have the flexibility to gain work experience, undertake an internship or work as a freelancer in the UK.

There is no minimum salary requirement, and there is no limit on how many international students can have the opportunity to stay in the UK through the Graduate Route. Additionally, you are not tied to a specific job or employer and you can have multiple jobs at any skill level and can switch jobs during the course of the visa.

Once you have found suitable employment in the UK, you’ll have the chance to switch to a skilled work route and remain in the UK after your two or three years have come to an end.

'I decided to apply for the Graduate Route because I didn't need to have an employer sponsor my visa. This meant that although I was offered a job, which was part-time, I was still able to stay and work in the UK without any issues. The Graduate Route enabled me to build up experience in the UK and has acted as a stepping stone for my future success in the actuarial field.'

Lan, from China, studied Applied Actuarial Science at the University of Kent and graduated in 2022. Thanks to the Graduate Route, she lives and works in the UK.

How much does the Graduate Route cost?

Before applying for the Graduate Route visa, you should know the costs up-front. There is a one-off application fee of £822 , and you must also pay the full amount for the Immigration Health Surcharge . As of 6 February 2024, this will cost you £1035 annually.

Learn more about the Graduate Route

Learn more about the Graduate Route on GOV.UK and visit the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website for additional guidance on the Graduate Route, including where, when and how to apply, requirements and conditions, FAQs and more. Additionally, you can view the UK government's Graduate Route guide for further information.

It is worth being aware that if you impress your employer while working on the Graduate Route visa, your employer can switch you onto the Skilled Worker route if the requirements are met. But note: you cannot switch from a Skilled Worker visa to a Graduate Route visa.

What is the Skilled Worker route?

A Skilled Worker visa allows you to stay in the UK with an approved employer and eligible job. You must fulfil specific requirements to apply for this type of visa - including having a job offer with a minimum salary of at least £20,960, at least £10.75 per hour, or the 'going rate' for the type of work you'll be doing, whatever is higher. Additionally, your job needs to meet the minimum levels of skill requirements. The UK government provides a list of eligible jobs* on their website that meets this requirement.

Visit the UKCISA website for additional guidance on the Skilled Worker route, including where, when and how to apply, requirements and conditions, FAQs and more.

*The list of eligible jobs is in the Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Occupations. Table 1 includes most eligible jobs, with separate tables for some jobs in health and education.

How much does the Skilled Worker route cost?

In short, it depends, but employers will always incur costs when hiring a graduate on the Skilled Worker route. The standard fee ranges from £719 to £1,500, depending on your circumstances, for example, where the graduate is applying, the type of visa they are switching from, the employer's size, and whether the employer already has a sponsor license.

It is common for employers, especially larger organisations, to pay the cost of the fee. However, it is not a given, so if you are offered a job and want to go down this route, make sure to discuss this up-front with your employer.

Get more advice on working in the UK after you complete your studies

For advice on working in the UK after you complete your studies, read our 'international students guide to working in the UK after you graduate' and visit the UKCISA website .

Stay and work in the UK on a Graduate Route visa

The Graduate Route means that you can stay in the UK and explore your employment options without needing an employer to sponsor your visa.

Explore other UK visa options

Many options are available for international graduates looking to stay in the UK after they finish their studies. Do your research and work out which visa best suits your current situation.

Hear individual Graduate Route stories

'the graduate route was a fast and simple way for me to stay in the uk after my studies'.

Guy shares how the Graduate Route helped him stay in the UK after completing his postgraduate studies without being sure about what he was going to do next.

'Working in the UK has enabled me to grow my network and skills and gain international work experience'

The Graduate Route allowed Progress to apply what she learned during her studies, grow her network and gain relevant international work experience in the UK.

'The Graduate Route gave me time to explore my employment options without time pressure'

The Graduate Route made it possible for Rodney to explore his employment options and make the decision that was right for him without needing a sponsored visa.

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UK govt mulls letting international students work more part-time hours

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his government are looking at pl ans to increase the international student working hours limit — or even remove it entirely, according to the Daily Mail .

Generally, those with a Tier 4 student visa can only work 20 hours a week when their term is in session. They are allowed to work longer hours during holidays.

With this suggestion, students would be able to work 30 hours or more in a week.

This plan, however, is still very much in the nascent stage and has yet to be accepted and implemented.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his government are looking at plans to increase the international student working hours limit. Source: James Glossop/AFP

Why is the UK suddenly considering increasing international student working hours?

The UK wants to create conditions that will promote economic growth.

That’s because the country is facing labour shortages. The country’s unemployment rate was at 3.7%  and 1.27 million people aged 16 and above were unemployed , according to UK Labour Market Statistics. 

To reduce the unemployment rate, the government is looking for ways to encourage domestic and international students to take on more part-time jobs — especially in the hospitality and retail industries. 

In an interview with the Daily Mail , Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that companies are “ crying out for workers .” Lifting the cap on international student working hours is “part of a swathe of ideas being considered” as they think of “what more to do to remove barriers and encourage students to work.”

Home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, educations.com. ranks the UK as the “ Top Destination in the World to Study Abroad ” in 2023.

How do other countries regulate international student working hours?

The UK is one of many countries that have resorted to an increase in working hours for international students.

Last year,  Canada took similar measures to change the working hour policy . Full-time international students can now work more than 20 hours a week until the end of 2023. 

Likewise, Canada faced a similar issue. They raised the working hours as a means to increase their labour force since businesses were struggling to fill job vacancies across the country — and Canada was successful. 

The country’s unemployment rate fell slightly to 5% in December, and over 104,000 jobs were added by the end of 2022, according to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) . 

“The ability to work more hours means they will be better able to provide for themselves and their families,” says Nicole Schmidt, president of the University of Calgary Students’ Union to  CBC .

The UK is reportedly considering following in Canada’s footsteps, we can anticipate the same improvements. 

Working part-time can help students earn much-needed side income. Source: Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP

Increase in international student working hours: How will this help?

In 2021-22, the UK hosted  680,000 international students . 

This increase or potential removal of the working hour limit benefits not only the economy, but also these students. 

Students could ease their financial burden — which is crucial for international students who are grappling with the cost of living crisis and exorbitant tuition fees. 

Rent, food, and travel expenses are reportedly increasing.

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Working in the UK as an International Student: Options, Opportunities and Guidelines

Working in the United Kingdom as an international student can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It not only allows you to support your studies financially but also provides valuable exposure to the local culture and work environment. In this blog, we will delve deeper into the work conditions and options available for international students in the UK. We will also explore the process of obtaining a work permit and visa, discuss wages and benefits, highlight job opportunities, and provide an overview of the important rules and regulations that govern working in the UK.

Work Conditions & Options for International Students in the UK

International students studying in the UK have the opportunity to work part-time during term-time and full-time during vacation periods. This flexibility allows students to strike a balance between work and studies. The UK government recognizes the importance of international students gaining work experience and encourages them to take on employment opportunities. However, it is essential to understand the regulations and limitations that come with working as an international student.

Can international students work in the UK?

Yes, international students can work in the UK while pursuing their studies.

Student work hours in the UK

As an international student, you are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during holidays.

Consequences of working more than 20 hours

It is crucial to adhere to the 20-hour work limit to maintain compliance with visa regulations. Failure to do so can have serious consequences, such as visa termination, which may impact your ability to continue your studies in the UK.

Workplace protections and strong support

The UK offers robust legal protections for workers, including international students. These protections ensure fair treatment, minimum wage requirements, safe working conditions, and protection against discrimination.

Average salary estimates

The average salary for international students in the UK can vary depending on factors such as the industry, job role, and location. In 2022, the average hourly wage for part-time jobs ranged from £8 to £12. 

However, it’s important to note that these figures are subject to change and may vary significantly based on individual circumstances and qualifications. It is advisable to research current job market trends and consult reputable sources such as government websites and salary surveys for up-to-date salary information in your specific field of interest.

Types of Work & Where to Find Them

International students in the UK have access to a wide range of work opportunities. There are many popular types of work and resources to help you find employment.

How to find jobs in the UK as an international student

Finding job opportunities as an international student in the UK requires utilizing various resources and platforms. Here are some effective ways to find jobs:

• A) University Career Services: Start by exploring the career services offered by your university. They often have job boards, internship programs, and networking events specifically tailored to students. Check your university’s website or reach out to the career services office for more information.
• Indeed ( www.indeed.co.uk )
• Monster ( www.monster.co.uk )
• Totaljobs ( www.totaljobs.com )
• Reed ( www.reed.co.uk )
• CV-Library ( www.cv-library.co.uk )  
• Prospects ( www.prospects.ac.uk ): Provides job opportunities and advice for graduates across various industries.
• StudentJob ( www.studentjob.co.uk ): Focuses on part-time jobs, internships, and graduate positions.
• GradLink ( www.gradlinkuk.com ): Offers job opportunities and career advice for international students from specific regions, including Bangladesh.
• C) Volunteer Work, Skilled Jobs & Internships: In addition to part-time jobs, there are other types of work experiences that can enhance your skills and contribute to your overall employability. Consider the following opportunities: 
• Do-it ( www.do-it.org ): Provides a wide range of volunteer opportunities across the UK.
• Volunteering Matters ( www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk ): Offers various volunteer projects in different areas of interest.
• D) Skilled Jobs: Depending on your qualifications, you may be eligible for skilled jobs that require specific expertise or professional qualifications. Consider searching for skilled job opportunities on general job portals mentioned earlier, as well as industry-specific job websites related to your field of study.
• E) Internships: Internships provide valuable hands-on experience and can often lead to future employment opportunities. Look for internship programs offered by companies, organizations, or through your university’s career services. Websites such as GradLink and Prospects mentioned earlier also provide internship listings.

Remember to customize your job search based on your skills, interests, and the specific requirements of the positions you are applying for. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your strengths and align them with the job requirements. Networking, attending career fairs, and leveraging personal connections can also enhance your job search efforts. 

Work Permit & Visa in the UK from Bangladesh

If you are an international student from Bangladesh, the process of obtaining a work permit and visa to work legally in the UK involves a few steps. Here is a brief overview:

Before Graduation

Tier 4 Student Visa: Initially, you will need to secure a Tier 4 Student Visa to study in the UK. This visa allows you to work part-time during term-time and full-time during holidays, with a maximum of 20 hours per week during term-time.

After Graduation/Honors:

Graduate Route: After completing your studies, you may be eligible for the Graduate Route (post-study work visa). This visa allows you to work in the UK for up to two years (or three years for doctoral graduates) and explore job opportunities related to your field of study. To apply for the Graduate Route, you will need to meet specific criteria, such as obtaining a degree from a recognized UK institution, having a valid Tier 4 Student Visa, and meeting the English language proficiency requirements. It is essential to stay updated with the latest information and requirements regarding work permits and visas. The UK Home Office and UK Visas and Immigration websites are reliable sources for accurate and up-to-date information on work permit and visa processes.

Post-study work visa duration

The post-study work visa, or Graduate Route, allows international students to work in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies. This period provides an excellent opportunity to explore career prospects, gain practical skills, and potentially secure a longer-term work visa.

Can you work on a student visa in the UK?

Yes, international students with a valid Tier 4 Student Visa are permitted to work part-time during term-time and full-time during holidays. It is important to adhere to the prescribed working hours to maintain compliance with visa regulations.

Wages & Benefits

Understanding the wages and benefits available to international students working in the UK is essential for financial planning and overall well-being. 

Per Hour Salary in UK for International Students

The average hourly wage for international students in the UK varies based on factors such as the industry, job type, and location. In 2022, the average part-time hourly wage ranged from £8 to £12. Predictions for 2023 suggest that these figures may remain relatively consistent, but it is advisable to research current job market trends for the most accurate and up-to-date salary information.

Minimum Wages in UK for International Students

The UK has a National Minimum Wage that applies to all workers, including international students. As of 2021, the minimum wage for workers aged 23 and over is £8.91 per hour. It is crucial to stay informed about any updates or changes in the minimum wage rates to ensure fair compensation for your work.

Other benefits international students enjoy

In addition to wages, international students working in the UK may be entitled to benefits such as paid annual leave, sick pay, and access to healthcare services. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these benefits to ensure you receive fair treatment and appropriate compensation.

Further Job Opportunities

Beyond part-time work during your studies, there are ample job opportunities available for international students in the UK. Consider the following:

Job opportunities after IELTS in the UK

Obtaining a high score in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) can significantly enhance your prospects for various job opportunities, especially those that require strong English language skills. Fluency in English opens doors to a wider range of industries and roles, increasing your chances of securing desirable employment.

Job opportunities for International Students in the UK after Graduating

The UK job market offers diverse employment options for international students upon completing their studies. Graduates can explore careers in their field of study or consider industries where their skills and qualifications are in demand. Websites like GradLink and TargetJobs provide valuable resources, job listings, and industry insights for recent graduates. Additionally, pursuing further studies or higher qualifications can also expand your career prospects and provide opportunities for obtaining longer-term work visas in the UK. However, it is crucial to stay informed about visa regulations, requirements, and potential visa issues that may arise during the transition from student status to employment.

Rules & Regulations

Understanding the rules and regulations governing work as an international student is essential to ensure compliance and avoid any legal complications. Here are some important points to consider:

Eligibility criteria for work as international students

To work legally in the UK, international students must hold a valid Tier 4 Student Visa. It is crucial to maintain your visa status and adhere to the prescribed working hours outlined by the UK Home Office.

Legal rights

International students, like any other workers in the UK, are entitled to certain legal rights and protections.  These rights include fair treatment, protection against discrimination, the right to a safe working environment, and adherence to the minimum wage requirements. It is essential to familiarize yourself with your legal rights as an employee in the UK to ensure that you are treated fairly and have a positive work experience. It’s worth noting that the information provided in this blog is based on general guidelines and regulations. Immigration and employment laws can change over time, so it is crucial to stay updated with the latest information from official government sources, such as the UK Home Office and UK Visas and Immigration.

UK international students can benefit from part-time and full-time work opportunities, which support their studies financially and provide valuable work experience. To make the most of this experience, students should understand the work permit and visa process, use online job portals and university career services, and adhere to regulations. Being mindful of working hours, researching wages, and understanding employment rights are essential for a successful work experience in the UK.

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Articles Blog

A guide to uk employment law for students working part-time.

Lately, there has been a rise in the number of UK students who have taken on jobs to improve their financial situation. If you’re a student working part-time, it is vital for you to grasp employment law and understand your workplace rights and duties. This article aims to serve as a comprehensive guide to UK employment law for students who balance their studies with part-time jobs. 

Homework assistance proves to be beneficial for those students who work part-time. So, if the phrase “find discussion board writers ” often echoes through your mind as you struggle to manage your time, consider delegating a couple of tasks. It will allow you to maintain your academic performance without compromising on your work responsibilities. This guide will not only explain the legal framework governing part-time work but also offer insights into managing work and study effectively.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-in-blue-long-sleeve-shirt-using-silver-macbook-315vPGsAFUk  

Eligibility to Work in the UK

Before taking on any part-time job, students must first ensure they are legally permitted to work in the UK. UK nationals and those with settled status can work freely without any limitations.

However, international students typically have different conditions attached to their visas. For instance, students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) on a Tier 4 (General) student visa are usually allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, but this can vary depending on the course level and sponsor.

It’s essential for students to check their visa stipulations carefully to avoid breaches that could impact their studies and future visa applications. 

National Minimum Wage and Living Wage

Understanding wage entitlements is fundamental for all workers. In the UK, NMW and NLW set the minimum amount a worker can be legally paid per hour. Based on data from April 2023, the rates are:

• Under 18: £5.28 per hour
• Age 18-20: £7.49 per hour
• Age 21-22: £10.18 per hour
• Age 23 and over: £10.42 per hour

Students working part-time must be paid at least these rates, but employers can offer more. The distinction between the NMW and NLW is primarily age-based, with the NLW being applicable to those aged 23 and above. These rates are subject to annual review by the government, reflecting changes in living costs.

Working Hours and Breaks

For part-time student workers, it’s important to know the limits on working hours and the rights to breaks and rest periods. The UK’s Working Time Regulations stipulate that adult employees are not mandated to work beyond an average of 48 hours each week (usually calculated over 17 weeks) unless they opt out voluntarily in writing. For those under 18, the limit is a maximum of 40 hours per week and no more than 8 hours per day.

Regarding breaks, workers have the right to one uninterrupted 20-minute rest break during any work day longer than 6 hours and a minimum daily rest period of 11 consecutive hours. Additionally, adult workers are entitled to one day off each week. These rights ensure that part-time workers, including students, have sufficient rest and recovery time, aiding in the balance between work and study demands.

Employment Contracts

For part-time student workers, understanding the contents of their employment contract is essential. This contract should clearly state the job role, wage, hours of work, and other terms, including holiday entitlement and notice periods. UK law requires that employees receive a written statement of employment particulars if their employment period lasts for more than a month.

It’s crucial for students to request a written contract and review it thoroughly before agreeing to the terms. Misunderstandings about job responsibilities or payment terms can lead to disputes; hence, documenting everything in writing is advisable. Additionally, students should keep a signed copy of their contract if they need to refer back to it or if any legal issues arise.

Rights to Sick Pay and Leave

Part-time student workers are also entitled to sick pay and various types of leave. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is available to eligible employees, including students, who earn at least an average of £123 per week (as of 2023). SSP entitlement begins from the fourth consecutive day of illness and is paid at £99.35 per week for up to 28 weeks.

In terms of leave, students have a right to 5.6 weeks of paid vacation annually, pro-rated for part-time workers. This includes bank holidays. Other types of leave, such as maternity, paternity, and emergency leave for family and dependents, are also available, ensuring that student workers do not have to choose between their job and family responsibilities. 

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/person-sitting-on-couch-holding-a-surface-device-8HPLpr3hebU  

Health and Safety

Employers must legally ensure a safe and healthy workplace for all staff, including part-time student workers. This duty involves evaluating potential workplace hazards, conducting required safety training, and maintaining the safety of all equipment. Students should receive the same level of health and safety training and protective equipment (if required) as full-time employees.

Additional Resources

GOV.UK and other websites provide comprehensive guides and details on employment laws and workers’ rights in the UK. Students can also approach their university’s careers service or student union for personalized advice and support.

Moreover, those who need help balancing work commitments with academic responsibilities might look to external resources for assistance with their coursework and essays. Searching for top paper writing websites in 2024 can lead students to reputable platforms that offer professional writing services. Always choose services that uphold academic integrity and offer transparent, ethical support.

Understanding UK employment law is crucial for students who engage in part-time work. This guide has covered fundamental topics such as eligibility to work, wage entitlements, and working hours, equipping students with the knowledge needed to navigate the workplace confidently. Being well-informed about these matters enables students to make knowledgeable employment choices.

Author Profile

Content writer Nicole Hardy is celebrated for her detailed and thoughtful journalism within the realms of education and the arts, with a special emphasis on performing arts education. Over the course of her decade-long career, Hardy has earned a reputation as a trusted expert in her field. Her writing is marked by thorough analysis and a captivating style of storytelling. She earned her Master’s degree in Journalism from the University of Arts, with a focus on arts and culture journalism.

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• Employing people
• Contracts of employment and working hours

Maximum weekly working hours

You cannot work more than 48 hours a week on average - normally averaged over 17 weeks . This law is sometimes called the ‘working time directive’ or ‘working time regulations’.

You can choose to work more by opting out of the 48-hour week.

If you’re under 18, you cannot work more than 8 hours a day or 40 hours a week.

You may have to work more than 48 hours a week on average if you work in a job:

• where 24-hour staffing is required
• in the armed forces, emergency services or police
• in security and surveillance
• as a domestic servant in a private household
• as a seafarer, sea-fisherman or worker on vessels on inland waterways
• where working time is not measured and you’re in control, for example you’re a managing executive with control over your decisions

Contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) helpline to get further advice on working hours.

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Australia invites 16m Britons to work 'down under' after extending working holiday visa age limit to 35

From Saturday, 1 July, Australia's long-awaited amendment to its working holiday visa will see the age limit increased to 35 - giving millions of people the chance to realise their dream of starting a new life in Oz.

By Siba Jackson, news reporter

Friday 30 June 2023 13:02, UK

Millions of Britons are being given a chance to work down under after Australia extended its working holiday visa age limit.

A long-awaited amendment coming into force on Saturday, 1 July, will see the work visa offered to people aged 18-35 - a five-year increase on the original limit of 30.

It is the first change to the visa since it was introduced in 1975, under the UK- Australia Free Trade Agreement (UKFTA).

Further changes to the working holiday visa are expected exactly one year later on 1 July, 2024, when Britons will be able to apply to live and work in Australia for up to three years without any specified work requirements.

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The offer is likely to be considered by many young people living in the UK - as new research reveals how 45% of 25 to 34-year-olds regret not taking a gap year when they had the chance.

The data, published by Tourism Australia, the nation's tourist board, also found that almost one in 10 people surveyed believed they were too old to start again.

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A survey of 400 recruitment and employment consultancies said May saw the biggest spike in jobseekers for the past two-and-a-half years.

Australia, which basks in 2,800 hours of sunshine every year, is an attractive option thanks to having a higher minimum wage than the UK, together with one of the lowest unemployment rates in almost 50 years.

Tourism Australia's regional general manager for UK & Northern Europe, Sally Cope, said the five-year extension would "present a world of openings to young professionals", as well as an "incredible lifestyle", with Australia "ready to welcome them".

In January, Australia announced a review of its entire visa and immigration system after the COVID pandemic left the nation grappling with a shortage of workers.

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Health and wellbeing, work, volunteering and career planning, study and work abroad, accommodation, it and online services, student life in york, if things go wrong, temporary closure of ev charging bays - friday 14 june.

Posted on 21 May 2024

All Electric Vehicle (EV) charging bays across campus will be temporarily closed on Friday 14 June 2024 for essential maintenance work. The bays will be reopened on Saturday 15 June 2024.

Avoid using the EV bays on 14 June - ensure you do not require the use of an EV bay on this day.

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