Student Guide
Everything you need to know about working while studying in the UK
Legal Requirements & Work Rights
UK/EU Students
No restrictions on working hours
Can work during term-time and holidays
Entitled to minimum wage (£10.42/hour for 18+)
Need National Insurance number for employment
International Students (Tier 4/Student Visa)
Maximum 20 hours per week during term-time
Can work full-time (40 hours) during official university holidays
Must have "work permitted" stamp in passport or visa
e-Visa Share Code: Required for employers to verify your right to work
Generate your share code at gov.uk/prove-right-to-work
Cannot be self-employed or start a business
Some restrictions on certain job types (entertainers, professional sports)
Important:
Always check your specific visa conditions. Working more than permitted hours can affect your visa status and future applications.
Job Search Tips
Building Your Profile
Use a professional email address
Include your university and course
Mention your availability clearly
Be honest about your schedule
Proofread your application documents carefully
Finding the Right Jobs
Filter by location to save commute time
Look for "student-friendly" employers
Consider jobs near your university
Check work hours fit your timetable
Read job descriptions carefully
Popular Student Jobs
Hospitality
Restaurants, cafes, pubs
Flexible evening/weekend shifts
Tips supplement wages
Great for social skills
Retail
Shops, supermarkets
Weekend and evening availability
Customer service experience
Often hiring during busy periods
Tutoring
Private or through agencies
Higher hourly rates (£15-25)
Flexible scheduling
Use your academic strengths
Campus Jobs
University employment
No commute required
Understanding of student needs
Academic support roles
Delivery Work
Food delivery, couriers
Flexible hours
Exercise while working
Peak time bonuses
Admin Support
Office assistance
Professional environment
Transferable skills
Often part-time friendly
Money Management & Tax
Understanding Your Pay
Minimum Wage: £10.42/hour (18-20), £11.44/hour (21+)
National Insurance: Paid automatically if earning over £12,570/year
Income Tax: Only pay if earning over £12,570/year
Emergency Tax: May apply initially - claim back if overpaid
Tax Tips for Students
Get a National Insurance number before starting work
Keep payslips for tax records
You can claim back overpaid tax at year-end
Part-time earnings rarely exceed tax threshold
Use HMRC's income tax calculator to estimate take-home pay
Balancing Work and Studies
Time Management
Plan your schedule in advance
Block out study time and stick to it
Use breaks between lectures for work
Communicate your availability clearly
Don't overcommit - start with fewer hours
Academic Priorities
Studies should always come first
Reduce work hours during exams
Find understanding employers
Use work to develop transferable skills
Consider how work complements your studies
Recommended Schedule:
Most students find 10-15 hours per week during term-time manageable. This allows for study time, social activities, and rest while earning useful income.
Workplace Rights & Safety
Your Rights as a Worker
Right to minimum wage
Rest breaks (20 minutes if working 6+ hours)
Safe working environment
Protection from discrimination
Paid holiday entitlement (pro-rata)
Red Flags to Avoid
Jobs requiring upfront payments
Employers asking for bank details before job offer
"Too good to be true" high pay for easy work
Pressure to work excessive hours
No proper employment contract
Ready to Start Working?
Find student-friendly employers who understand your schedule