Can International Students Work 40 Hours a Week in the UK in 2025?
For many Indian students, the opportunity to work part-time in the UK is a big factor in choosing the UK as a study destination. It helps manage living expenses, gain international work experience, and build a professional network for future jobs. Understanding the 2025 UK student visa work rules and how universities support student jobs is crucial before applying.
Part-Time Work Rules for International Students in the UK (2025)
- Student visa holders at degree level can work up to 20 hours per week during term time
- During official university vacations, students can work full time
- Students under 18 or on a Child Student visa may work up to 10 hours/week
- Select universities may set stricter work hours—always confirm your course and university policy
- Jobs can be on-campus (easier access) or off-campus (retail, hospitality, etc.)
These rules apply to most Tier 4 (Student) visa holders. Jobs can be sourced via campus career services, university job boards, and top job portals. Breaking work hour regulations can result in visa violations and penalties.
Top UK Universities with Strong Student Job Support (2025)
| University | Cities | Career/Job Support | Apply/Explore |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Oxford | Oxford | On-campus jobs, dedicated career service, employer fairs | Details |
| University of Greenwich | London | Student job portal, part-time listings, internship support | Details |
| University of Sunderland | Sunderland | Paid campus roles, job shop, work placements | Details |
| Coventry University | Coventry, London | Careers team, part-time work advice, links to local employers | Details |
| University of East London | London | On-campus jobs, employment development workshops | Explore London Universities |
Check each university’s dedicated employment and student support service before you apply. Many offer direct links with local businesses, mentoring, and job fairs to maximize your chances of finding a suitable part-time job.
Also read: Top Universities in UK
Who Can Work Part-Time? UK Student Visa Eligibility (2025)
- Must hold a valid UK Student (Tier 4) visa
- Age 16+ and studying a full-time course at a recognized UK university
- Proof of admission (CAS letter), financial documents, and English language proficiency (e.g. IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
- Some courses/universities may have their own restrictions—always confirm during admissions
Typical score requirements for English proficiency include an overall IELTS score of 6.0 or higher (or equivalent in TOEFL/PTE). You can check details here: IELTS Exam.
Part-Time Job Types and Average Earnings (2025 Update)
| Role | Type | Average Salary/Hour (£) | Campus/Off-Campus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teaching Assistant | Academic | 11-15 | Campus |
| Librarian | Academic | 13-17 | Campus |
| Retail Assistant | Service | 11-13 | Off-Campus |
| Waiter/Server | Service | 10-14 (+tips) | On & Off |
| Tutor | Academic/Online | 14-21 | Either |
| Delivery Staff | Logistics | 8-12 | Off-Campus |
| Content Writing Intern | Remote/Online | 14-18 | Remote |
The UK’s National Minimum Wage applies to international students (aged 18+), with typical part-time salaries starting at £10–12/hour in 2025. Specialized roles such as tutors can earn more.
Living Costs, Tuition Fees & Scholarships in the UK
| Expense | Average Annual Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (UG/PG) | £12,000–£22,000 |
| Living Expenses (London/Other Cities) | £10,000–£15,000 |
| Average Part-Time Earnings | £400–£800/month |
| Popular Scholarships | Chevening, Commonwealth, GREAT India Scholarships |
Combining part-time work with UK scholarships is the best strategy to cut costs. Find more options for Scholarships for Indian Students and compare tuition here: Living Costs in UK.
How to Apply for UK Student Visa: Work Rights & 2025 Updates
- Apply for a Student (Tier 4) visa with a valid CAS from a UK university
- Prepare passport, CAS letter, financial proof, English exam score (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL)
- Check that your visa sticker specifies “work permitted”
- Understand term-time (max 20 hrs/week) and vacation (full-time) work rules
- Comply with all Home Office and university guidelines—avoid illegal work
You can read complete UK Student Visa Guide Here.
Popular Part-Time Jobs for International Students in the UK
- On-campus: Library assistant, IT support, research assistant, barista
- Off-campus: Retail staff, waiting tables, delivery, tutor, pet care
- Remote/freelance: Content writing, video editing, digital marketing intern
You can find jobs on sites like Totaljobs, Indeed, LinkedIn, or your university portal. Make sure your employer checks your visa and provides a contract to comply with UK law.
Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in the UK for Students (2025)
- Tutor – £14 to £21 per hour (subject/skill-based)
- Research Assistant – up to £15 per hour (master’s or PhD students)
- Librarian – £13–17 per hour
- Freelance content creator – £14–18 per hour (remote/online)
Post-Study Work Opportunities in the UK
- After finishing your degree, apply for the Graduate Route (Post-Study Work) visa
- Lets you stay and work (any job, any level) in the UK for up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) after studies
- Start your career in your field or switch to a skilled worker visa for further employment
See more on Post-Study Work Visa UK or explore Highest Paying Jobs Worldwide.
How Many Hours Can International Students Work Part-Time in the UK in 2025?
- International students on a Tier 4 (Student) visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- During university holidays, students can work full-time hours.
- Always check your visa and university rules for exceptions.
Choosing the right UK university, understanding your part-time work rights, and making the most of job and career resources can help you thrive academically and financially in 2025. Working part-time not only supports your expenses but also builds global skills, enhances your resume, and expands your network for a successful future after graduation.
FAQs on Guide to Part-Time Work Options for International Students in the UK
1. Can international students get part-time jobs in the UK?
Yes, international students studying in the UK on a valid Student visa (Tier 4) are usually allowed to work part-time during their studies. However, the specific number of hours and kind of work permitted depends on your visa conditions and the type of course you are enrolled in. Always check your visa vignette and BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) for exact permissions.
2. Can I work 40 hours a week as an international student in the UK?
No, during term time, most international students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week. However, you may work up to full-time hours (usually up to 40 hours per week or more) during official university holidays and breaks. You must check your institution's term dates and visa conditions for exact allowances.
3. How much do international students earn part-time in the UK?
International students typically earn between £10 to £15 per hour for most part-time jobs in the UK, depending on the type of work and location. Jobs in London and other major cities may offer higher hourly wages, while specialized roles could pay more. All workers are entitled to the National Minimum Wage.
4. Can I work part-time on a UK Student visa?
Yes, students on a UK Student visa can usually work part-time during their study period, subject to the visa rules. Most can work up to 20 hours per week in term time and full time during scheduled holidays. Always check your specific visa documentation for details.
5. Are part-time jobs available in the UK for international students?
Yes, there are many part-time job opportunities for international students in the UK. Common sectors include retail, hospitality, customer service, delivery, tutoring, and university on-campus roles. University career services often help students find suitable openings.
6. What are the highest paying part-time jobs in London for international students?
Highest paying part-time jobs in London for international students typically include roles such as private tutoring, administrative assistants, IT support, research assistantships, and barista jobs at premium outlets. Specialized roles and jobs requiring specific skills or languages often pay more than average.
7. What is the National Minimum Wage for students in the UK?
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) for students aged 18–20 is £7.49 per hour, and for those aged 21 and over, it is £10.18 per hour (as of April 2024). These rates are regularly updated by the UK government. Always check the latest rates on the official gov.uk website.
8. What kind of part-time jobs are available in the UK for students?
Popular part-time jobs for students in the UK include retail assistant, barista, waiter/waitress, delivery driver, university ambassador, assistant librarian, data entry clerk, care assistant, and private tutor. Most universities also offer on-campus placements for international students.
9. Can an international student work more than 40 hours in summer break in the UK?
Yes, during official university holidays such as the summer break, international students on a Student visa can work full time, which may be more than 40 hours per week. It is important to ensure your work period is within the official vacation period as per your university's term dates.
10. What jobs can international students get after completing their masters in the UK?
After completing a master's or other degree, international students may be eligible for the Graduate Route visa, allowing them to work full-time in any sector for up to 2 years. Popular fields include IT, finance, management consulting, data analysis, engineering, healthcare, and academia. Job prospects depend on the chosen field of study and skillset.
11. Where can I find part-time jobs for international students in London?
Part-time jobs in London can be found through university career services, job boards (such as Indeed, StudentJob, Reed.co.uk, and Totaljobs), employer websites, and local businesses. Networking and university job fairs are also effective ways to secure part-time roles.
12. What are the official working hours for international students according to gov.uk?
According to gov.uk, students on a full-time degree-level Student visa may work a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time and unlimited hours during official holiday periods. Exact permissions are always listed in your visa documents and must be followed to avoid violations.
