Your Right to Work During Your Studies
The right to work during studies is a major advantage for international students in the UK, offering generous flexibility to gain valuable experience alongside their academic journey.
As a student visa holder, you’re generally allowed to work part-time:
Up to 20 hours per week during term time (for degree level students)
Up to 10 hours per week for courses below degree level
Full-time during official university holidays
If your course includes a mandatory placement, you may work full-time during that period. Be aware that both paid and unpaid work count towards your hours, and time cannot be averaged across weeks.
UK Minimum Wage
Another key benefit is the UK’s strong minimum wage, which helps international students earn a fair income while working part-time. As of 2025, the UK’s national minimum wage is:
£12.21 per hour for those aged over 21
£10.00 per hour for those aged 18-20
Graduate Visa: Working After Graduation
The Graduate visa allows you to stay in the UK and work after completing your degree. The visa is unsponsored meaning you don’t need a job offer to apply. It’s a flexible option for those who want to work, look for work, or explore business opportunities after graduating.
Current rules (2025):
Undergraduate and Master’s graduates: stay up to 2 years
Doctoral graduates: stay up to 3 years
From January 2027:
Stay period will be reduced to 18 months for most students (except PhD holders).
Top Tips
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- Use University Resources: Check your university’s career centre, job boards, and student unions for available roles.
-Build Your CV: Highlight any previous work experience, language skills, or volunteer work to stand out to employers.
-Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and present yourself professionally.
More About Studying at UK Universities
Why Choose Sorrento Education?
As an independent consultancy, we offer honest, unbiased advice with your child’s best interests at heart. Our goal is to equip your family with the tools and confidence to navigate this important journey successfully.