Student Jobs in the UK: A Simple Guide to Working While You Study

Job Description

The United Kingdom has long been one of the most popular places for students from around the world. From famous universities like Oxford and Cambridge to vibrant cities like London and Manchester, the UK has something for everyone.

If you are studying here, you might want to get a job to help cover your living costs or gain valuable work experience. Many international and UK students work part-time while studying, but there are rules you need to follow.

This guide will help you understand everything about student jobs in UK, including who can work, how many hours you can work, what types of jobs are available, and how to get started.

Why Work While You Study?

There are lots of good reasons to work during your time as a student:

• Extra Money – Living in the UK can be expensive, especially in big cities. A part-time job can help you pay for rent, food, and travel.
• Work Experience – Employers value people who have experience in the workplace. Even a part-time job can teach you skills you can use later.
• Improve Your English – If you’re from abroad, working with local people can help you improve your language and communication skills.
• Meet New People – A job is a great way to build friendships and feel part of the community.

Who Can Work as a Student?

If you are from the UK, you don’t have any work restrictions while studying. But if you are an international student, you must check your visa conditions carefully.

Most students from outside the UK have a Student visa. Here are the basic rules:

•  You can usually work up to 20 hours a week during term time.
•  You can work full-time during holidays.
•  You can do a work placement if it’s part of your course.
•  You cannot be self-employed, start a business, or work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer.

You can find full details about work restrictions on the UK government website here:
Student Visa Work Rules

Before you start working, always check the conditions in your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or your digital immigration status.

How Many Hours Can You Work?

It’s important to follow the working hours allowed by your visa:

• During term time: Maximum 20 hours a week if you study at degree level or above. If you study below degree level, it may be 10 hours.
• During vacations: You can work full-time.
• On placements: If your course includes a work placement, it must not be more than 50% of your total study time.

Read more here:
Working Hours for International Students

National Insurance Number (NINo)

Before you start working, you’ll need a National Insurance Number (NINo). This is a unique number used for tax and national insurance.

You can start work without it as long as you can prove you’ve applied for one.

Learn how to apply here:
Apply for a National Insurance Number

Types of Student Jobs in Uk

There are many part-time jobs in the UK that are suitable for students. Here are some popular options:

• Retail Jobs: Working in shops and supermarkets.
• Hospitality Jobs: Waiting tables, working in cafes, or behind a bar.
• Office Work: Admin support or customer service.
• Tutoring: Helping school children or other students.
• Delivery Driver or Rider: Food delivery (some restrictions may apply depending on visa).
• University Jobs: Library assistant, student ambassador, or research assistant.

If you want to check what kinds of work you cannot do on a Student visa, visit:
Prohibited Work for Student Visa Holders

Minimum Wage

The UK has a National Minimum Wage, which varies depending on your age. As of 2025, the rates are:

• Under 18: £6.40 per hour
• 18–20: £8.60 per hour
• 21 and over: £11.44 per hour

The minimum wage is updated every April. Always check the latest figures here:
Check the Minimum Wage

How to Find Student Jobs in Uk

There are lots of ways to find a part-time job in the UK. Here are some simple ideas:

1. University Careers Service: Almost every university has a team to help you find jobs, placements, and volunteering opportunities.
2. Online Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Reed, or StudentJob often list part-time positions.
3. Company Websites: Big retailers and hospitality chains advertise vacancies on their own websites.
4. Recruitment Agencies: Agencies can help you find temporary work.
5. Networking: Tell friends and classmates you’re looking for work.

If you want official advice on working in the UK as an international student, see:
UKCISA – Working in the UK

Paying Tax

If you work in the UK, you must pay tax and National Insurance.

Your employer will usually deduct these automatically from your pay. If you earn under the tax-free threshold (called the Personal Allowance), you may be able to claim a tax refund.

Read about tax and how to claim a refund here:
Income Tax for Students

Rights at Work

Even if you work part-time, you have rights. For example:

•  Paid holidays (at least 5.6 weeks per year, pro rata)
•  Rest breaks
•  Protection against discrimination
•  Payslips showing your earnings and deductions

Learn about your rights as a worker here:
Your Employment Rights

Work Placements and Internships

Many courses in the UK include a sandwich year or work placement. These placements must be arranged by your university and approved as part of your course.

You can also take internships during vacations.

For official guidance on work placements, visit:
Work Placements for Students

Working After Graduation

If you want to stay in the UK to work after your studies, you can apply for the Graduate visa. This allows you to work full-time for 2 years (or 3 years if you have a PhD).

Read about the Graduate visa here:
Graduate Visa

Tips for Success

Working as a student can be rewarding, but it’s important to stay balanced and organised. Here are some final tips:

• Know your visa rules: Never exceed your permitted working hours.
• Stay on top of your studies: Your course must remain your main focus.
• Keep records: Save payslips and contracts.
• Ask for help: If you’re not sure about something, ask your university or check official guidance.
• Look after yourself: Get enough rest and don’t overcommit.

Useful Resources and Official Links

Here are 10 official government resources to help you learn more:

1. Student Visa Overview
2. Student Visa Working Rules
3. National Insurance Number
4. Minimum Wage Rates
5. Income Tax
6. Employment Rights
7. Work Placements
8. Graduate Visa
9. UKCISA – Working
10. Prohibited Work

Final Words

Student jobs in the UK are a fantastic way to gain skills, earn money, and make your time at university even more fulfilling. By understanding the rules and using the many resources available, you can find a role that suits your goals and supports your future career.

If you’re unsure about anything, always check official guidance or talk to your university’s student support team. With careful planning, working in the UK can be one of the most rewarding parts of your study experience.