Part-Time Jobs in the UK for International Students: 2025 Guide
Studying in the UK is a dream for many international students, and working part-time while studying is a great way to manage living expenses, gain local experience, and improve employability. In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through the latest rules, best job options, how to find them, pay scales, and tips to balance study and work.
📌 Why Work Part-Time in the UK?
✅ Offset Living Expenses
✅ Gain UK Work Experience
✅ Enhance Your Resume
✅ Improve Communication & Networking Skills
Most UK student visa holders are permitted to work part-time while studying, under specific guidelines laid out by UKVI.
📋 Rules for Part-Time Work (Student Visa – Tier 4 / Student Route)
Here’s what you can legally do under current (2025) UK student visa laws:
Condition | Details |
During term time | Up to 20 hours/week |
During vacation | Up to 40 hours/week / full-time |
Internships / Placements | Permitted if part of the course |
Self-employment or freelancing | ❌ Not Allowed |
Job category restrictions | Cannot work as sportsperson, coach, or entertainer |
🔒 Always check your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) for specific work rights.
💼 Top Part-Time Jobs for International Students in the UK
Job Role | Average Pay/hour | Why it’s Ideal |
Retail Assistant | £10 – £12 | Flexible shifts, store discounts |
Waiter/Waitress | £10 – £14 (incl. tips) | Great for communication & teamwork |
Library Assistant | £11 – £13 | Quiet environment, ideal for students |
Delivery Driver (e.g. Uber Eats)* | £10 – £15 | Flexible hours (*must meet licensing rules) |
Tutoring (online/in-person) | £15 – £30 | Good for postgrads or subject experts |
Barista / Cafe Staff | £10 – £12 | Common in student cities |
University Temp Jobs | £11 – £14 | Check your uni career portal |
📝 Tip: Students from India often start in hospitality or retail, later moving into tutoring or university roles.
🌍 Where to Find Part-Time Jobs in the UK
1. University Career Services
Most UK universities have dedicated platforms like:
• CareerConnect (Oxford)
• Handshake (various)
• TargetConnect
2. Online Job Portals
• Indeed UK
• StudentJob UK
• TotalJobs
• Gumtree Jobs
3. Walk-ins & Networking
• Drop CVs at local stores, cafés, libraries
• Join student groups and societies
🎯 Tips to Balance Study and Work
✅ Stick to 15–20 hours/week during term time
✅ Prioritize classes and assignments
✅ Choose weekend/evening shifts
✅ Use apps to manage your schedule
✅ Inform employers of your academic commitments
📈 How Much Can You Earn Monthly?
Depending on your work hours and job type:
• 15 hours/week × £11/hour × 4 weeks = ~£660/month
• Full-time during vacation: up to £1500/month
This income can easily cover groceries, local transport, and part of your rent.
📚 Real Student Experience
“Working part-time at a bookstore in Leeds not only helped me afford my bills but also improved my English fluency and confidence.”
– Aarav, MSc in Data Science
📆 Timeline for Finding Jobs
When | What to Do |
Before arrival | Create a UK-style CV & LinkedIn profile |
First 2 weeks | Attend career induction & job workshops |
Month 1 | Apply to 5–10 local jobs + online listings |
Month 2–3 | Land your first interview & get hired |
❓FAQs
Q1. Can I work more than 20 hours per week during studies?
🚫 No. Exceeding this can lead to visa cancellation.
Q2. Do I need a National Insurance (NI) Number?
✅ Yes. Apply for it as soon as you get a job offer.
Q3. Can I work two part-time jobs?
✅ Yes, but combined hours must not exceed the legal limit.
Q4. Are part-time jobs guaranteed?
❌ No. Jobs are competitive, especially in big cities like London. Start early and apply widely.
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