Working part-time while studying is a realistic option for most international students in the UK, and it can significantly reduce your financial pressure while building valuable work experience. However, the rules are strict and violations can jeopardise your visa — so it is essential to understand exactly what you are permitted to do.
How Many Hours Can You Work?
If you are studying at degree level or above at a Higher Education Institution (HEI), you are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time. During official university vacation periods (Christmas, Easter, and summer), you can usually work full-time (no weekly hour limit), provided this is permitted by your visa conditions.
If you are studying below degree level, the limit is typically 10 hours per week during term time. Always check the specific conditions printed on your visa vignette or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) — this is the definitive source for your individual restrictions.
What Kind of Work Is Permitted?
Most forms of employment are open to Student visa holders: retail, hospitality, customer service, tutoring, administrative roles, and graduate internships (if you are on a placement year). There are a few key restrictions: you cannot be self-employed or run your own business, you cannot work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer, and you cannot fill a permanent full-time vacancy.
Your Rights as a Worker in the UK
Regardless of your immigration status, once you are working legally in the UK you are entitled to the same basic employment rights as any other worker. These include the National Minimum Wage (currently £11.44 per hour for workers aged 21 and over in 2026), paid holiday (minimum 5.6 weeks per year), protection from unlawful deduction of wages, and the right to a written contract or statement of employment particulars.
Never work for cash in hand without a contract. Always ask for a payslip. If an employer refuses or asks you to work off the books, walk away — illegal working is a serious visa violation.
National Insurance and Tax
You will need a National Insurance (NI) number to work in the UK. You can apply online through the government website after you arrive. Your employer will use this number to deduct income tax and National Insurance contributions from your pay. As a student working part-time, you may earn below the personal allowance (£12,570 in 2025/26) and not pay any income tax at all — but you still need an NI number and a legitimate employment contract.
Building Your CV While You Study
Part-time work is not just about money. UK employers value candidates who have work experience alongside their degree. Try to find roles relevant to your field of study — even indirectly. Many universities have job boards and careers services specifically for students. Graduate employers in the UK consistently say that relevant work experience is as important as degree classification at the point of hiring.
For questions about work entitlement or finding legitimate part-time employment, the International Student Advisory team at your institution is the primary point of contact.
