Many students in the UK choose to work part-time while pursuing their undergraduate or postgraduate studies. For some, it’s a way to support their living expenses, while others see it as an opportunity to explore the culture, meet new people, and build professional connections. Whatever your reason, part-time work can be a valuable experience if you follow the right rules and choose the right job.
Rules for Part-Time Work in the UK
If you’re an international student, you can work part-time in the UK under specific visa conditions. These rules are designed to ensure you balance academics and work effectively:
- Full-time international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- Students enrolled in courses below degree level or language programs can work up to 10 hours per week.
- During official university holidays, you are allowed to work full-time.
- Part-time postgraduate international students cannot work in the UK.
- Some roles are restricted – students cannot take up self-employment, freelance work, permanent roles, or jobs as a professional sportsperson, entertainer, doctor, or dentist in training.
- Always check your visa conditions carefully. Any violation could affect your studies and your stay in the UK.
Types of Part-Time Jobs in the UK
As an international student, you’ll find three main categories of part-time work opportunities:
1. On-Campus Jobs
Convenient and student-friendly, these roles are within the university. Examples include:
- Library Assistant
- Teaching or Lab Assistant
- Student Ambassador
- Campus Guide
They save you commuting time and are usually designed to suit academic timetables.
2. Off-Campus Jobs
These jobs are in retail, hospitality, customer service, or delivery sectors. They often pay higher wages and provide exposure to UK work culture, but may involve longer hours and travel.
3. Online Jobs
Remote roles such as tutoring, content writing, digital marketing, or social media management are becoming increasingly popular. They offer flexible schedules, though it’s essential to have clear contracts and fair pay agreements.
Best Part-Time Jobs for Students in the UK
Here are some of the highest-paying part-time jobs in the UK that international students can explore:
1. Accountant
If you’re good with numbers and analytical thinking, accountancy can be highly rewarding.
- Average Pay: £15–£20 per hour
- Skills Required: Math skills, attention to detail, knowledge of accounting software
- Tip: Having AAT qualifications can increase your chances of earning higher wages.
2. Computer Programmer
Programming is one of the most lucrative part-time jobs in the UK.
- Average Pay: Around £20,000 per year (part-time)
- Senior consultants with niche expertise can earn £70–£150 per hour
- Best for students pursuing computer science, accounting, or STEM degrees.
3. Teaching Assistant / Tutor
If you enjoy sharing knowledge, tutoring is both fulfilling and profitable.
- You can teach subjects from your course or hobbies such as coding or music.
- Pay: Around £23,000 per year (depending on hours and subjects taught)
- Bonus: You can advertise your services online and even create video lessons.
4. Customer Service Representative
Customer support jobs are widely available and relatively easy to secure.
- Pay: Up to £10.35 per hour
- Skills Required: Communication skills, problem-solving, customer-first attitude
- Tip: Choose a role in a field aligned with your career goals to build useful experience.
5. Pet Care Services
Pet sitting, dog walking, or grooming can be both enjoyable and well-paid.
- Average Pay: £24 per day
- Platforms like Minders-Keepers or Homesitters.co.uk make it easy to find clients.
- Bonus: It’s flexible, fun, and helps you stay active.
Choosing the Right Part-Time Job in the UK
The right job not only helps you earn extra income but also builds transferable skills, cultural understanding, and professional connections. Whether you choose on-campus, off-campus, or online work, ensure it aligns with your long-term career goals and does not affect your studies.
At Admizz Education, we help students explore the best study-abroad opportunities, including guidance on part-time work options in the UK. From selecting the right university to preparing for your stay, our expert counselors are here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to begin your UK study journey? Contact Admizz Education today and book your free counseling session!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours can international students work in the UK?
Full-time international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Students enrolled in courses below degree level or language programs can work up to 10 hours per week. During official university holidays, students are allowed to work full-time. Always check your visa conditions carefully.
Can part-time postgraduate international students work in the UK?
Part-time postgraduate international students cannot work in the UK. Some roles are also restricted for students: self-employment, freelance work, permanent roles, and jobs as a professional sportsperson, entertainer, or doctor or dentist in training are not allowed. Any violation of visa conditions could affect your studies and your stay.
What types of part-time jobs are available for international students in the UK?
There are three main categories. On-campus jobs include library assistant, teaching or lab assistant, student ambassador and campus guide. Off-campus jobs are in retail, hospitality, customer service or delivery and often pay higher wages. Online jobs include tutoring, content writing, digital marketing and social media management, with flexible schedules.
What are the highest paying part-time jobs for students in the UK?
The page lists accountant at an average of £15–£20 per hour, computer programmer at around £20,000 per year part-time, teaching assistant or tutor at around £23,000 per year, customer service representative at up to £10.35 per hour, and pet care services at an average of £24 per day.
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