Part-Time Jobs for International Students in the UK: A Complete Guide
Many students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in the UK take up part-time work to supplement living expenses, gain cultural exposure, and build networks. Understanding the rules, opportunities, and best-paying options can help you make the most of your time abroad.
Rules for Part-Time Work in the UK
International students in the UK must follow specific visa rules to remain compliant:
- Full-time degree students: Up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- Below-degree or language course students: Up to 10 hours per week .
- University holidays: Full-time work is allowed.
- Restrictions: Part-time postgraduate international students cannot work. Roles such as self-employment, freelance work, permanent jobs, or professional roles (e.g., doctor, dentist, entertainer, or sportsperson) are not permitted.
Always check your visa conditions—breaking these rules can jeopardize your studies and stay in the UK.
Types of Part-Time Jobs
International students in the UK can explore three main types of part-time work:
1. On-Campus Jobs
Roles like library assistant, lab or teaching assistant, student ambassador, or campus
Guides are convenient since they are close to university facilities and designed around student schedules.
2. Off-Campus Jobs
Jobs in retail, hospitality, customer service, and delivery often offer higher pay and diverse experience. These roles help students gain transferable skills and understand UK workplace culture.
3. Online Jobs
Remote work, such as tutoring, social media management, or content creation, offers
flexible hours. Ensure clear contracts and fair pay before starting.
Best Part-Time Jobs in the UK
Here’s a list of some of the highest-paying and most popular options :
1. Accountant
- Average pay: £15–£20/hour
- Tasks: Prepare accounts, analyse financial statements
- Tip: AAT qualifications can boost your employability.
2. Computer Programmer
- Average pay £20k/year (senior consultants can earn £70–£150/hour)
- Requirements: Degree in Computer Science or related field
- Skills: Multi-tasking, teamwork, problem-solving.
3. Teaching Assistant / Tutor
- Average pay: £23,187/year
- Tasks: Tutoring fellow students or sharing skills outside your course
- Tip: Promote your services online for extra opportunities
4. Customer Service
- Pay: Up to £10.35/hour
- Skills: Friendly attitude, communication, willingness to help
- Tip: Choose a sector related to your future career to boost your CV
5. Pet Care
- Pay: £24.23/day
- Tasks: Dog walking, cat sitting, or general pet care
- Tip: Platforms like Minders-Keepers or Homesitters.co.uk help you get started
Choosing the Right Part-Time Job
While high pay is attractive, consider flexibility, proximity, and relevance to your career goals. On-campus jobs are convenient, off-campus jobs provide professional exposure, and online work offers flexibility.
Balancing work and study is key. Part-time jobs not only help financially but also enhance your skills, networks, and cultural understanding, making your international experience richer.
Hubspots International Can Help
If you’re planning to study in the UK, Hubspot International provides comprehensive
guidance—from university applications to accommodation, part-time work advice, and
settling in abroad. Our expert counsellors ensure you maximise your study abroad experience
while staying compliant with visa rules.
Contact us today to book your first counselling session and explore the best opportunities for your study abroad journey!
