Studying in the UK opens up a world of academic and professional opportunities. Many students also look for part time jobs in UK to support their living expenses and gain international work experience. Fortunately, the UK offers flexible part time work options for international students, with clear legal regulations to protect workers and ensure fair pay.
If you’re an Indian student or from any other country planning to study in the UK in 2025, understanding your part time work rights is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover job types, work-hour limits, eligibility, average pay, and how to balance your studies with employment.
Why Consider Part Time Jobs in UK While Studying?
Working part time while studying in the UK offers numerous benefits. You can earn extra income, improve your English communication skills, build a local network, and enhance your CV with valuable experience. Many students also find that part time jobs help them become more confident and independent in a new country.
Moreover, part time jobs for students can be flexible enough to fit around your academic schedule, making them ideal for full-time degree seekers.
Eligibility for Part Time Jobs in UK for International Students
To work part time in the UK as an international student, you must hold a Tier 4 (now Student Route) visa, which allows you to take up certain employment under defined conditions.
Basic Rules:
| Criteria | Details |
| Type of visa | Student visa (Student Route, previously Tier 4) |
| Work hours during term | Up to 20 hours/week (10 hours/week for some courses) |
| Work hours during holidays | Full-time allowed |
| Self-employment | Not permitted |
| Internships | Allowed if related to your course |
| National Minimum Wage (2025) | £11.44 per hour (as of April 2025) for those aged 21 and over (source: Gov.uk) |
Always double-check the latest student work rules on the official UK Home Office website.
Types of Part Time Jobs for International Students
There’s a wide range of part time jobs for students, catering to different skills and schedules. Broadly, these fall into on-campus, off-campus, and online categories. Each offers unique benefits, so let’s explore them.
On-Campus Part Time Jobs in UK
On-campus jobs are highly convenient due to their proximity to your university. These roles, such as library assistants, cafeteria staff, or student ambassadors, save commuting time and align with academic schedules. For example, working in the university library might involve shelving books or assisting peers, offering a quiet environment to balance studies. However, these positions are competitive, so apply early through your university’s career portal.
Off-Campus Part Time Work Options
Off-campus part time jobs for students provide diverse opportunities in industries like retail, hospitality, and customer service. Retail assistants in stores like Tesco or Primark help customers, stock shelves, and process payments. Hospitality roles, such as waiters or baristas in cafes, are popular due to flexible hours and tips. Additionally, tutoring or teaching assistant positions suit students with academic strengths, offering hourly rates up to £24.50.
Online Part Time Jobs for Flexibility
For maximum flexibility, online part time work while studying abroad is ideal. Roles like freelance writing, graphic design, or online tutoring allow you to work from your dorm. Platforms like Upwork or Tutorful connect students with clients globally. Data entry or social media management jobs are also accessible with basic computer skills, paying £9–£12 per hour. These roles suit students who prefer remote work to juggle academic commitments.
Top 7 Part Time Jobs in UK for International Students
Here are some of the most common and accessible part time jobs for international students in the UK:
| Job Role | Average Pay (Per Hour) | Skills Needed | Work Flexibility |
| Retail Assistant | £9–£11 | Customer service, POS | High |
| Barista/Server | £10–£12 | Communication, multitasking | Moderate |
| Delivery Driver (Bike) | £10–£15 | Navigation, time management | High |
| Library Assistant | £9–£10.50 | Organizational skills | Medium |
| Tutor (subject-based) | £15–£25 | Expertise in subject | Flexible |
| Supermarket Staff | £9.50–£11 | Stocking, cashiering | Rotational Shifts |
| Call Center Agent | £10–£12 | English fluency | Weekends/Nights |
These part time jobs for international students require minimal experience and are perfect for students aiming to earn while they learn.
Best Cities for Part Time Work While Studying Abroad
Some UK cities offer better opportunities for part time work while studying abroad, thanks to their student population and service economy.
| City | Why It’s Great for Part Time Work |
| London | Huge number of service jobs, high pay, but higher cost of living |
| Manchester | Diverse jobs, student-friendly, lower living costs |
| Birmingham | Retail, warehouse jobs, major student hub |
| Edinburgh | Popular for tourism-related jobs, especially in summer |
| Glasgow | Growing tech and customer support sectors |
Although London offers more job options, you may find better work-life balance and affordability in smaller cities.
How to Find Part Time Jobs in UK for Students
Finding part time work for students is easier when you know where to look. Some popular channels include:
1. University Career Services
Most universities have dedicated job boards and career centers that help students find on-campus or local jobs.
2. Online Job Portals
- Indeed UK
- StudentJob UK
- Gumtree UK
3. Walk-in Applications
Many cafes, shops, and supermarkets accept CVs in person. This direct approach often yields faster results.
4. Recruitment Agencies
Some specialize in student-friendly and temp roles. Always check if they are licensed.
Tips to Balance Part Time Work and Study
Working while studying can be enriching, but balance is key. Use the following tips to manage both effectively:
- Prioritize your studies: Remember, your main purpose is academic.
- Use a planner: Allocate fixed hours for classes, work, and rest.
- Avoid night shifts before exams: Mental fatigue impacts performance.
- Communicate with employers: Most are flexible with students’ needs.
- Take care of your health: Don’t overwork yourself; sleep and diet matter.
By using time management wisely, part time work options can become an asset, not a distraction.
Legal Rights for Student Workers in the UK
As an international student, you are protected by UK employment laws. This includes:
- Right to receive at least the national minimum wage
- Right to a payslip
- Protection from discrimination
- Paid holiday (if employed long-term)
- A written employment contract
Always verify your employer is compliant, and avoid cash-in-hand jobs without contracts—they are often illegal.
FAQs: Part Time Jobs in UK for International Students
Q1. Can international students work 40 hours a week in the UK?
Only during official university breaks. During term time, the limit is 20 hours per week.
Q2. Do part time jobs require previous experience?
Many roles like retail, hospitality, and delivery require no prior experience—just basic communication skills.
Q3. What is the best time to start looking for part time work?
Start as soon as your course begins. Many jobs open in the first few weeks of the academic year.
Q4. Are international students eligible for internships?
Yes, if it’s part of your course. Otherwise, it should comply with the 20-hour/week limit during term.
Q5. How much can students earn from part time work in UK?
On average, students earn between £9 to £15 per hour depending on the job and city.
Final Thoughts: Should You Take Part Time Jobs in UK While Studying?
For most international students, working part time in the UK is a valuable way to supplement income and gain work experience. With proper planning and legal compliance, it can enhance your overseas education experience.
Whether you work in a café, a library, or as a tutor, part time jobs help you grow professionally and personally. Remember to check your visa guidelines regularly and consult your university’s career services before taking up any job.
If you’re looking to build your resume, network with locals, or just earn some extra money for weekend trips, part time work while studying abroad in the UK is an opportunity worth exploring.
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