International Students Working Hours in the UK

You are not alone if you are an international student considering part-time employment to expand your social circle and supplement your income while studying in the UK.

Many students share your interest in combining work and education in the UK, and a common query is how to manage both effectively.

We're here to provide an exhaustive guide that delves into the specifics of student working hours, making sure you are well-equipped to navigate these waters confidently.

How many hours can a student work in the UK?

If you're over 16 and on a full-time study visa, the world of work opens up to you with a cap of 20 hours per week. However, it's not just about counting the hours; it's about understanding that this includes any form of employment, paid or unpaid, across various organisations.

When the holidays roll around, these restrictions lift, allowing you to immerse yourself more fully in the world of work.

Just remember that things are different for international and PhD students. Understanding these little details makes a difference for having a fabulous time in the UK.

Exploring Work Limits for International Students

Here are the working hour' guidelines for international students in the UK

• International students enrolled in full-time degree programs can work up to 20 hours per week, averaging 4 hours per day, excluding weekends.
• Students attending language courses, such as German, English, French, or Spanish, may be permitted to work in the UK depending on their visa status.
• Engaging in freelance or contract-based employment is strictly prohibited.
• Pursuing full-time employment within a company necessitates acquiring a post-study work visa.
• Students enrolled in part-time courses are not eligible for employment in the UK.

Students can work up to 40 hours per week during academic breaks, ensuring that daily working hours do not exceed 8 hours, with weekends off.

PhD Working Hours in the UK

Understanding Your Time Commitment

International PhD students typically can work a maximum of 20 hours weekly during academic sessions, but this restriction doesn't apply during breaks or for approved internships or placements. This is because these phases require a lot of focus and energy.

If you get to a point where you need to make significant revisions and resubmit your work, you should be ready to work at most 10 hours per week. So, planning your time wisely and preparing for these changes in your work schedule is essential.

Remember that the rules can differ based on your school, visa type, and situation.

So, it's essential to talk to the international office at your school and look at your student visa details to know exactly how many hours you can work while doing your PhD in the UK.

Jobs are not allowed for Students with a Student Visa.

You can do many different jobs. However, there are some jobs you are not allowed to do, such as:

• Running your own business or working on a freelance basis
• Taking a job that would usually be a full-time, permanent position.
• Becoming a professional Sports coach.
• Performing as an artist or musician, whether paid or not.
• Working as a doctor or dentist in training unless you are part of a specific foundation program.

Which visa should you apply for?

You must get a Student visa to study in the UK for over six months. But if your study time is under six months, you can apply for a Student or Standard Visitor visa.

Standard Visitor visa (here more info)

• Work or unpaid (as volunteer) work is not permitted on the Standard Visitor visa.
• You cannot stay in the UK for longer than six months and must leave the UK within 30 days of the course end date.
• You cannot extend this visa or change the type of visa from inside the UK.

Student visa (here more info)

• Working Hours: If you are in the UK with a student visa, the maximum hours you can work each week varies based on your unique situation. Typically, undergraduate students are limited to 20 hours of work per week during the academic term, while postgraduate students might have the flexibility to work more hours.
• Full-Time Work: You can work full-time during breaks, such as university holidays or when classes are not in session.
• Job Types: A range of employment opportunities is available, spanning paid and unpaid roles.
• Adhering to Term-Time Restrictions: To maintain the validity of your student visa, it is crucial to comply with any work restrictions during the academic term.
• Public Funds: Remember, claiming public benefits is not permitted while on a student visa in the UK.

Types of jobs can you find in the UK if you are a student

We've compiled an extensive list of student employment opportunities to guide international learners on potential job choices in the UK.

• Admission Officer
• Bartender
• Blogger
• Bookseller
• Babysitter
• Brand Ambassador
• Cashier
• Customer Assistant
• Enrollment advisor
• Facilities Assistant
• Freelance translator
• Finance Assistant
• Fitness Instructor
• Gardener
• Graphic designer
• House Cleaner
• Host at a Restaurant
• Ice Cream scooper
• IT Assistant
• Newspaper distributor
• Pharmacy Delivery Driver
• Pet caretaker
• Pizza Delivery Driver
• Promotional worker
• Personal Assistant
• Personal Tutor
• Photographer
• Physiotherapy Assistant
• Sports Facilities Worker
• Smoothie Maker
• Software Developer Intern
• Research Assistant
• Receptionist
• Residence Guider
• Security guard
• Student Support officer
• Sales assistant
• Social Media Assistant
• Tour Guide
• Veterinary care assistant
• Waitress
• Waitress at the university cafeteria

Looking for Student Accommodation in the UK?

• Visit Our Website: Dive into our extensive list of student accommodations and find detailed information, photos, and student reviews.
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• Connect with Us: Have questions or need advice? Our friendly team is here to assist you every step of the way.

Trust Hallbookers.co.uk will guide you through the process, ensuring you find a place that meets all your needs and helps you thrive in the UK.

Ready to find your home away from home? Visit Hallbookers.co.uk today and take the first step towards a comfortable and enriching student living experience!