Working in the UK – A Guide for International Students | FindAMasters.com (2024)

United KingdomEuropeInternational Study

Written by Mark Bennett

International students are allowed to work in the UK (subject to the conditions outlined below). However, part-time work can be difficult to find, so you should not expect to fund your studies entirely in this way.

In general, most international students on a Student Route visa (previously known as a Tier 4 student visa) pursuing a full-time postgraduate degree (for a period of over six months) can work in the UK during their studies, as long as they don’t:

  • Work for more than 20 hours per week, except during any vacations or in the case of an agreed work placement or internship
  • Engage in business, self-employment or provide services as a professional sportsperson or entertainer
  • Pursue a career by filling a permanent full-time vacancy

In other words, you can do most part-time jobs. If you’re unsure about your personal circ*mstances, the UK Council for International Student Affairs has up-to-date, detailed advice for a range of situations.

Can my partner work in the UK?

Students starting a course on or after 1 January 2024 can bring attendants only if they are studying a PhD course, a doctoral qualification or a research-based higher degree

This means if you are studying a one-year taught programme, you will not be able to bring your partner to the UK as a dependant.

We have some more information on how these new rules might affect you on our blog. The UK government continually reviews immigration rules and things may change. We'll keep this page up-to-date with any new information. Sign up to our newsletter to get the latest updates straight to your inbox.

What do I need before I can start work?

You will need to have applied for a National Insurance number to be eligible to work in the UK, but you do not need to have received your National Insurance number before you can start work. You should do this after you have received your offer of employment.

You can apply for a National Insurance number via the phone. After you’ve done this, you may need to attend an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus to confirm why you need a National Insurance number.

Can I undertake a work placement or internship?

If you’re on a Student Route visa, you can do a work placement, as long as:

  • It’s an assessed and integral part of your full-time Masters programme
  • It doesn’t comprise more than half of your degree
  • You stay enrolled as a student at your university

If the work placement meets these conditions, you’ll be able to work full-time for its duration.

If you want to take part in an extracurricular work placement or internship that isn’t part of your course, you must undertake it on a part-time basis (20 hours a week or fewer) during term time, or full-time during the holidays.

Can I work in the UK after my Masters?

After finishing your Masters, you can apply for the UK Graduate Route which allows international students to apply for a post-study work (PSW) visa. This visa is valid for at least two years after completing your Masters!

You don’t need to have received a job offer to apply for the Graduate Route, and you’re free to do almost any kind of employment in the UK (or be self-employed).Find out more in our comprehensive guide to the UK Graduate Route visa.

Working in the UK – A Guide for International Students | FindAMasters.com (1)

UK Government immigration update

The new immigration update from the UK Goverment has no effect on the duration of the Graduate Route visa yet. Students currently applying for the visa will continue to get two or three years depending on their qualification. We will keep updating this page with the most up-to-date information on Graduate Route visas.

Further information

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) offers a wide selection of resources for overseas students looking to understand their right to work in the UK.

Working in the UK – A Guide for International Students | FindAMasters.com (2)

Search for a Masters in the UK

Ready to start looking for your ideal study abroad opportunity? Browse and compare Masters degrees in the UK on FindAMasters.com.


Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice




You may also like...

The Cost of a Masters – How Much is a Masters Degree in the UK?

United KingdomCostsFunding

The average cost of a UK Masters degree is £8,740, but fees vary by course and university, with some programmes costing more than others.

Read more

UK Masters Funding for International Postgraduates in 2024 – A Guide

United KingdomInternational ScholarshipsStudent LoansInternational StudyFunding

Our guide explains the different postgraduate scholarships available for international students in the UK, as well as overseas eligibility for Masters loans.

Read more

Postgraduate Loan – A Guide for 2023

United KingdomStudent LoansFunding

You can get a £12,167 postgraduate student loan for a Masters degree in any subject. Read our simple guide, covering eligibility, applications and FAQS.

Read more

Postgraduate Loan Repayments

United KingdomStudent LoansFunding

Our guide explains how the different UK postgraduate student loan repayments work, with salary examples, FAQs and a handy postgrad loan repayment calculator.

Read more

Apply for a Masters Loan in the UK

United KingdomStudent LoansFunding

Postgraduate loan applications are open for 2023. This guide explains which Masters loan you should apply for, how to apply, when to apply, and what you'll need to provide.

Read more

Chevening Scholarships – A Guide for 2024

United KingdomInternational ScholarshipsInternational StudyFunding

Chevening Scholarships are part of a prestigious UK Government postgraduate funding scheme specifically for international students in the UK. This page will give you an introduction to eligibility, applications and more.

Read more



Last updated: 03 January 2024


United KingdomEuropeInternational Study

  1. FindAMasters
  2. Guides
  3. Working in the UK – A Guide for International Students
Guides
Working in the UK – A Guide for International Students | FindAMasters.com (2024)

FAQs

How to find jobs in UK for international students? ›

Checking in with your university employability or careers team is always a good place to start when looking for work. They can connect you with relevant opportunities and help you appeal to employers in the UK. You'll need to have a CV to give to employers when you apply for a job.

Why is it so hard to get a job in the UK as an international student? ›

So, employers often look for people who have a good command of English. Some employees doubt that international students might not have good English language skills and they won't be able to communicate with others fluently. This is also a reason why international students are not getting job opportunities in the UK.

Can you work in the UK as an international student? ›

Students on full time degree-level courses holding a Student visa are permitted to work in the UK. The requirements and rules are as follows: Up to 20 hours per week during University term time.

What are the new rules for international students in the UK 2024? ›

On 1 January 2024, the UK Student Visa rules were amended to prevent most international students from being accompanied or joined by a dependent whilst studying in the UK. The new student dependent rules apply to students who applied after 3pm on 17 July 2023 for a course of study commencing on or after 1 January 2024.

How easy is it to get a job in UK as a student? ›

Finding a job in the UK is a strenuous task. If you maintain a consistency in your job hunt process, you might be able to find your dream job. However, before considering filling in job applications, you should consider some questions about the employability. What do you look from a career in the UK?

Is it difficult to find a job in UK for foreigners? ›

Starting anew with the job application process can be overwhelming, especially in a country where you have little or no experience working. Luckily, with plenty of opportunities for expats available on the island, finding a job in the UK is far more achievable than it might initially seem.

Is it hard to survive in UK for international students? ›

Some of the challenges that international students may face while living in the UK include: Cost of living: The cost of living in the UK, especially in cities like London and Oxford, can be relatively high, including accommodation, transportation, groceries, and other expenses.

Is US better than UK for international students? ›

Flexibility: UK programmes offer less room for elective courses, while the US provides more flexibility for students to explore a variety of subjects. Grading System: In the UK, the emphasis is on final exams, while the US employs continuous assessment methods, including assignments and exams throughout the term.

What is the problem faced by international students in UK? ›

But it can also bring with it several difficulties. International students may encounter various problems, from discrimination and financial challenges to language and cultural barriers and culture shock. Students must understand these difficulties and act proactively to overcome them.

What is the best job for international students in UK? ›

15 best part-time jobs in the UK for international students
  1. Retail Assistant. Retail assistant jobs are one of the most popular part-time jobs in the UK for international students. ...
  2. Receptionist. ...
  3. Tutoring. ...
  4. Customer service representative. ...
  5. Library assistant. ...
  6. Data entry clerk. ...
  7. Food delivery driver. ...
  8. Barista.
Mar 18, 2024

Do international students pay taxes UK? ›

Foreign students working in the UK

Some double-taxation agreements mean you do not pay UK tax on your income if you work while you're a student. If your country does not have an agreement like this, you have to pay tax in the same way as others who come to live in the UK.

How long can international students stay after graduation UK? ›

International students who have successfully completed an undergraduate or master's degree can apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after their studies. PhD graduates can apply to stay for up to three years.

Can international students stay in UK permanently? ›

Apply for UK Permanent Residency

Once you have completed your 5 years graduate job, you may now apply for permanent residency. You have to obtain ILR in order to become a permanent resident. An ILR visa in the UK can be obtained with the help of a full-time job, good moral character, and no criminal background.

How to survive as international student in UK? ›

Here are few tips for international students in UK that can be helpful before you plan to Study in UK.
  1. Improve Your Fluency in English. ...
  2. Connect to Groups and Communities. ...
  3. Search for an Affordable Accommodation. ...
  4. Open a Bank Account: ...
  5. Look for a Part-Time Job. ...
  6. Learn About the Transport System. ...
  7. Be Open to Weather Challenges.

Can students bring family to UK? ›

Share. From Monday 1st January 2024, international students studying in the UK will no longer be able to bring dependants with them on their UK student visa, aside from those on research postgraduate programmes.

Can I work more than 40 hours a week in UK international students? ›

While studying for a degree in the UK, with permission to work on your student visa letter, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full-time outside of official term dates. If you're planning on working full-time outside of your term dates, you should be aware of other legal stipulations.

Is it easy to get a part-time job in UK as an international student? ›

Finding part-time jobs for students in the UK is very easy. You can find work as a bartender, barista and more. You will be performing the same duties as someone in a full-time position but receiving fewer hours, so you must be extremely flexible with your availability. Universities can also assist in your job search.

How can international students get money in UK? ›

Private grants are another financial option for international students studying in the UK. Companies and non-governmental organisations have finance options to help students complete their higher education. If you take out a private loan, always read the agreement before you sign it.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Msgr. Benton Quitzon

Last Updated:

Views: 5314

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (63 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Msgr. Benton Quitzon

Birthday: 2001-08-13

Address: 96487 Kris Cliff, Teresiafurt, WI 95201

Phone: +9418513585781

Job: Senior Designer

Hobby: Calligraphy, Rowing, Vacation, Geocaching, Web surfing, Electronics, Electronics

Introduction: My name is Msgr. Benton Quitzon, I am a comfortable, charming, thankful, happy, adventurous, handsome, precious person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.