Working part-time jobs in the UK has been a choice for many international students. This is mainly because of rising tuition and fees and the high cost of living in Britain. Once students know their class schedule every semester, some of them can plan their spare time reasonably and find part-time jobs to earn money. This can not only alleviate the family’s financial pressure but also develop personal skills. But what rules and regulations should you follow, and how can you find reliable part-time jobs? Read on and get your answer now.
Rules and Regulations for Part-time Jobs for International Students in UK
The UK government has requirements and time limits for international students to work.
First of all, you need to be at least 16 years old and have a valid student visa. You are also required to study a full-time degree course at a higher education institution recognized by UK government.
Then, there is one thing should be noted that, if you are an exchange student or on a student visa for a part-time course , you will not have the right to take up any paid or unpaid work in the UK.
- Students with less than an undergraduate degree can work part-time no more than 10 hours a week during semester time.
- If you work part-time during your undergraduate postgraduate semester, you are limited to a maximum of 20 hours per week, note that the week here is based on a 7-day week.
- Note that any unpaid/voluntary work part-time is also counted as hours worked on a statutory part-time basis. The exception to this is volunteering.
Benefits of Doing Part-Time Jobs in UK for International Students
1. Financial Support: The cost of living for an international student in big cities like London is about £15,000-£28,000 per year, which is higher than in other cities. Covering living expenses is one of the most compelling reasons why international students find part-time jobs. Besides, earning extra money through decent-paying part-time jobs can also make your study experience in the UK more enjoyable.
2. Skills Improvement: By working together with colleagues or communicating with customers, you can practically improve your skills in teamwork, socializing, and language use. Additionally, a part-time job requires you to balance study and work, which forces you to manage time efficiently. The experience can lay a foundation for your personal growth and future career.
3. Cultural Integration: Doing part-time work in the UK for international students can help them better understand local culture and customs. Moreover, You may make many friends when working part-time, and they can help you better understand their culture and living habits.
4. CV Upgrade: It doesn’t matter if you do not have any experience before. As long as you want to do it, you will succeed. One of the most valuable things about working part-time for international students in the UK is the unique work experience. You can add it to your CV to help you get employers’ attraction and increase your chances of being employed.
Top Part-time Jobs in UK for International Students
Common Types of UK On-campus Part-time Jobs
Part-time on-campus jobs in the UK for international students can save your commute time and allow you to earn money while you study.
So, how do you find part-time jobs on campus? You can keep an eye on the information boards of your university’s on-campus signage website, or the service staff job listings that are posted when your school is hosting special events. The following are common types of on-campus part-time jobs for students.
- On-campus librarians: The on-campus librarians are responsible for helping with moving books, providing front desk counseling services, navigating how to use computers, etc. Generally, the salary is £10-£12 per hour, which may vary from school to school.
- Campus Ambassadors: Student Ambassadors need to guide the new students, distribute promotional materials, etc., in the open day or admission season. The compensation is about 10 pounds per hour.
- Administrative: You can be administrative in the school IT department and academic department to do work like data entry. You will be paid 9-13 pounds per hour.
- Campus servicer: The supermarkets, gyms, student restaurants, and student service centers often have vacancies for part-time work for international students. You can actively inquire about these places that you are interested in if there is a part-time job suitable for you.
British Off-campus Part-time Jobs for International Students
1. Waiter
Being a waiter in restaurants, cafes, local bars, or other catering industries is the most common job for foreign students in the UK. This is a relatively easy job for international students to get started with. You can interact with a diverse range of people to develop social skills. Tips from customers are also an important income for waiters.
2. Tutor
Working as a tutor is a nice part-time job in the UK for international students. There are two main types of tutors: teaching assistants and home tutors.
Teaching assistants are responsible for assisting professors or sometimes lecturing lower-level students at their own universities. If you are going to engage in education, this position is especially beneficial for your future career.
Home tutors need to teach students at their homes and typically earn higher since parents prioritize academic performance. The applicants are required to have teaching certificates and proficiency in the subjects they teach.
3. Retail Worker
If your class schedule is too full and you have less time to work during the day, your best options are shops that remain open in the evenings or on weekends or supermarkets that require weekend shifts, especially in November and December when customers rush to the stores during the busy holiday season. Working as a retail worker is a nice part-time job in the UK for students, which is beneficial to improving your communication skills, and you can also get competitive wages.
4. Dog Walker
Some pet owners in the UK don’t have time to walk their dogs, so there is a need to hire “professional dog walkers” to take their pets for walks in nearby parks every day. Pet daycare for dogs has a significant market in the UK now, with considerable income opportunities. This is a nice option for part-time jobs in the UK for international students. Working as a dog walker can help you relieve stress in daily life and studies and interact with lovely dogs.
5. Translator
Translator is a decent part-time job for international students in the UK. In the process of working, your language skills will be improved, and you will be more professional in using language. Translation falls into two categories: written translation (translating documents or letters) and interpretation (accompanying translation). This job can cultivate your language sensitivity and cognitive abilities, benefiting you for a lifetime.
6. Freelance Writer
The greatest advantage of being a freelance writer is that it is not limited by time or place. You just need to complete your task within a limited time. At the same time, what you have learned in the school is likely to be used in your creation. It is important to note that most freelance writing jobs are posted on websites, so you need to keep a close eye on relevant websites for job postings and get opportunities in time.
How to Find Good Part-time Jobs for Students?
If you are looking for a part-time job in the UK for international students, you can go through information on on-campus job boards or off-campus job boards. All you need to do is to search for jobs with the word “Part-Time.”
- Subscribe to the school career center information: The career center of the college sends out job postings related to the majors of the college, and they are tailor-made for the students. Moreover, the job postings received by the school are all from companies that want to recruit students from this school, so the hit rate of submitting resumes is quite high.
- Ask for the help of your professors: In fact, more than 70% of British locals applying for internships are through contacts, and the best resource for international students is their professors. Try to perform well during courses and daily interaction with your professors and get their help.
- Apply through Campus Job Fairs: Lecture halls and job fairs are also great opportunities to develop relationships and get internships. You should seize every opportunity to communicate with employers, not only to gain more knowledge of the industry, but also to chat with the person in charge personally.
- Keep an eye on the firm’s website: many Big 4/investment firms have full internship programs. So if you are planning your career development, you need to be more attentive and browse the websites of your favorite companies for job postings and internship opportunities.
- Pay attention to social networking sites: Many well-known companies post job postings on Twitter and LinkedIn, which are even more up-to-date than the company’s website, so it’s important to manage your LinkedIn profile well. This will give you a better chance of getting an internship offer.
Tips for Finding Part-time Jobs in the UK
Before looking for a part-time job, knowing the relevant local policies in the UK is essential. Here are some useful tips for your reference.
After starting work, apply for a National Insurance number within 6 weeks to ensure coverage in the UK’s National Insurance and tax system. If your part-time income exceeds the Personal Allowance, you’ll pay a 20% tax on the amount over that limit.
- International students are entitled to the same rights as local employees in the UK, such as the minimum wage and break times. These are all your legal rights, so don’t be afraid to strive for them!
Pay attention to safety issues! Make sure the job you find is legal and compliant. Try to find your part-time job in the UK close to your student accommodation, which can save you energy and time.
While studying abroad, remember that your primary focus should be on your studies. Learn to manage your time wisely to maintain a balance between study and work. You will have a fulfilling and enjoyable study experience in the UK.
Conclusion
There are many different part-time jobs in the UK for international students. The benefits extend far beyond financial gain. Students can also obtain invaluable work experience, enhance language skills, understand deeply British culture, and build a network for future careers. If you have no idea of how to find suitable part-time work in the UK for international students, check out our tips and advice to help you find your dream part-time employment.
FAQ
Is it easy to find part-time job in UK for international students?
Finding a part-time job in the UK for international students is relatively easy. There are many companies in the UK offering part-time work. Pay attention to job postings on recruitment websites and announcements in your school, and make full preparation for your interview in advance.
Can I work for 40 hours in UK as an international student?
International students in the UK can work for 40 hours per week only in vacation periods. During term time, students with a valid student visa in full-time degree-level studies are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week.
Which job is best for students in the UK?
There are many part-time job opportunities for international students to choose.
- Waiter
- Tutor/Teaching assistant
- Retailer worker
- Dog walker
- Translator
- Freelance Writer
How much can an international student earn in the UK part-time?
Generally, international students in the UK who are working part-time can earn £200-£400 per week. As of April 2025, the national minimum wage for workers aged 21 and over in the UK will be £12.21 per hour, which means international students can earn more than before.
What happens if I work over 20 hours on a student visa in the UK?
International students in the UK can do part-time jobs for no more than 20 hours per week during the term time. If you work over 20 hours, you will break the laws and regulations of the UK, which may affect you to get your student visa in the future.
