Working opportunities while studying in the United Kingdom

In addition to studying in the UK, there are an abundance of opportunities to work as well. Ideally, those who wish to study and work in the UK can avail of ample opportunities. This includes part-time work and may also include various volunteer endeavours. However, it must be noted that students should not run any risk and ensure that their work falls in line with the rules and regulations as per their student visa. There are various roles that they can fulfil and that are compliant.

Eligibility for study and work in the UK

Naturally, there are several requirements that must be met before a student can seek part-time work in the UK. First and foremost, in order to study and work in the UK simultaneously, students must ascertain their eligibility.

Before applying, students should consult the relevant personnel at their university as well, since it is likely that they have their own set of rules that should not be violated. For instance, if a university has categorically specified that students are not eligible to work, then these restrictions must be adhered to.

If students have a student visa, then they can only work on a temporary basis; they cannot be employed on a permanent basis. If you have another type of visa you can use during your studies, you can check with the International Student Advice team. Yet another facet of study and work in the UK is that the aforementioned regulations are only applicable to international students who venture from outside the European Union. Those who are not from the UK but originate from an EU country such as France or Germany do not need permission to find work.

On the other hand, international non-EU students must follow their Tier 4 visa. Like we mentioned earlier, the visa vignette that is applied to their passport will contain a short sentence that states how many hours they are allowed to work. Typically, the sticker may state that 10 or 20 hours per week are permissible during term time.

Working time for international students

This is determined by the rules set out in their visas. For example, certain student visas specify how many hours a week a student can work on the paper itself. Typically, a student is allowed either 10 or 20 hours per week for a particular programme, not for all international students.

For part-time work permits, UKVI has defined “a week” as a seven-day period starting Monday to Sunday. Full time work permit in vacation, in summer vacation- almost 4-month, students can work full time in a week. Any work placement must not be longer than 50% of the total course. As an international student, if you have a student visa for a part-time course, then you will not have the right to undertake any paid or unpaid work in the UK.

According to UCAS, as an international student, if you take this type of course then you can work only 20 hours per week during your term time-

• Full time course below level degree sponsored by recognised.
• Student is aged over 16 and holds tier 4 visa
• Whether you are a full-time undergraduate or graduate student
• You are a short-term student in the UK who is sponsored by an appropriate overseas institution

While studying if you take this type of course then you cannot work –

• Part-time postgraduate courses or sponsored by recognised bodies in the UK
• Further education at a college or university in the UK
• Student is aged under 16 and holds a tier 4 visa.

This kind of work you are not allowed to do-

• Working freelancing
• Full time permanent job
• Self-business
• Professional sports person
• As an entertainer
• As a dentist or doctor in training

Finding a job in the UK

Nevertheless, students can manage both studying and working in the UK successfully. The chances of finding part-time roles are greater in bigger cities like London. There are always international students who want to ease the financial burden, which is what encourages them to seek such jobs.

Another aspect of finding work while studying is that a lot of universities offer part-time roles on campus. For instance, several part-time and higher-paying roles are available at universities at the start of the semester as local and international students make their way there. In the UK, in big cities like London, international students can easily find part-time jobs. Some universities, however, only allow students to work on campus, but there is no need to worry because there are still many options available for international students.

Again, it must be noted that the official student visa, the Tier 4 visa, mentions the number of hours a student can work. Generally, if you are aged 16 or under and have a Tier 4 visa, you are not permitted to work. However, as long as these stipulations are followed, students can effectively study and work in the UK.

Popular job in the UK during studying

• PA (Personal Assistant)
• Admissions Officer
• Sport Facilities Worker
• Gardener
• Finance Assistant
• Social Media Assistant
• Personal Tutor
• Ice cream scooper
• Host at a Restaurant
• Brand Ambassador
• IT assistant
• Security guard
• Fitness instructor

Salary range in the UK while studying

It mainly depends on different areas in the United Kingdom, such as London, where total pay for a part-time job is £44,403 per year or £13.50 per hour, and in other areas it is £37,579 per year. Additional pay is £6,824 per year. Additional pay includes cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing.

There are some examples of designation and salary:

Tax issues about part time job

Students can work while studying, and students are also accountable for tax and national insurance (NI). National insurance may be a contribution to state benefits and it is payable on all income over £166 per week. 2% of any earnings above £892 per week are charged.

For 2019/20, if you earn £12,500 per annum, then you have to pay tax, so if you are a part-time job holder, or if you are earning below £12,500 per annum, then you don’t have to pay any tax. You have to pay 20% tax on your earnings between £12,500 and £50,000.

If you’re earning over £46,350 then you have to pay 40% tax.

It is very important to work, even if you are a student. You must not rely on your part-time jobs to fund your studies. Living and studying is also very expensive in the UK, so a part-time job can help the students.

To learn more about admissions to top-ranked UK universities, reach out to our counselor for help.

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