Studying in the UK offers more than just world-class education—it’s a chance to gain work experience, earn extra cash, and immerse yourself in British culture. For students, especially international ones, finding part-time work while juggling lectures can feel daunting. But with the right know-how, it’s entirely achievable. In this 2025 guide, we’ll cover the conditions for working as a student in the UK and share a comprehensive list of methods to land the perfect part-time job. Whether you’re at uni in London or a college in Manchester, this is your roadmap to balancing work and studies.
Can Students Work in the UK? Understanding the Rules
Before diving into job hunting, you need to know the legal conditions tied to your student status. Here’s the breakdown:
- UK Student Visa Work Rights: If you’re an international student on a Student visa (Tier 4 or post-2021 equivalent), you can work part-time—up to 20 hours per week during term time for degree-level courses (RQF Level 6+) or 10 hours for below-degree courses (e.g., foundation programmes). During official holidays, you can work full-time (up to 40 hours/week). Check your visa sticker or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) for exact limits—some say “Work restricted to 20 hrs/wk term-time.”
- Restrictions: You can’t be self-employed, start a business, or work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer. Paid or unpaid work counts toward your hours.
- UK/EU/Settled Students: If you’re a UK citizen, have settled/pre-settled status, or don’t need a visa, you face no hour restrictions—work as much as your studies allow.
- Part-Time Students: If your course is part-time, visa rules typically prohibit work entirely—double-check with your uni or UKCISA.
- Penalties: Exceeding hours risks visa cancellation, fines, or deportation, so track your shifts carefully.
Pro Tip: Contact your university’s international student office to confirm your rights—rules can shift, like the 2024 Health and Care Worker visa changes.
Why Work Part-Time as a Student?
Beyond covering costs (think £800–£1,500/month living expenses), part-time jobs boost your CV with skills like time management and teamwork. For international students, it’s a window into UK work culture—priceless for future job hunts. In 2025, with the National Minimum Wage at £11.44/hour (for 21+), 20 hours/week nets you £228.80—enough for rent or a night out.
How to Find Part-Time Jobs: Your Ultimate 2025 List
Here’s a detailed, no-stone-unturned list of methods to snag part-time work in the UK. Each approach is practical, student-focused, and proven to work.
1. University Career Services
- What: Most UK unis (e.g., UCL, Manchester, Edinburgh) have employability teams offering job boards, CV workshops, and on-campus roles.
- How: Visit your uni’s careers portal (e.g., “MyCareer” at Bristol) or book a 1-on-1 with a career advisor. Look for roles like library assistant or student ambassador.
- Why: On-campus jobs fit around lectures and prioritise students.
2. On-Campus Job Boards
- What: Physical or digital noticeboards listing uni-specific gigs—think café staff or research assistants.
- How: Check student union websites, library noticeboards, or faculty newsletters. Sign up for email alerts.
- Why: Low competition—jobs are reserved for students like you.
3. Online Job Portals
- What: Websites tailored to student and part-time work.
- How:
- Indeed.co.uk: Filter by “part-time” and “student” in your city.
- StudentJob.co.uk: Specialises in flexible student roles.
- SaveTheStudent.org: Aggregates listings hourly from UK job sites.
- Reed.co.uk: Offers remote and local options with custom alerts.
- Why: Vast choice, from retail to tutoring, updated daily.
4. Local Businesses
- What: Cafés, shops, and pubs near your uni or accommodation often need part-time staff.
- How: Walk in with a CV, ask for the manager, and inquire about vacancies. Look for “Hiring” signs in windows.
- Why: Flexible shifts and a chance to build local connections.
5. Networking
- What: Leveraging peers, tutors, or alumni for job leads.
- How: Join uni societies, attend career fairs (e.g., London Jobs Fair 2025), or ask friends with jobs to refer you. LinkedIn works too—connect with local employers.
- Why: Personal recommendations often skip the application queue.
6. Social Media
- What: Job postings on platforms like X, Facebook, or Instagram.
- How: Follow local job pages (e.g., “Manchester Student Jobs” on FB) or search hashtags like #UKStudentJobs on X. Message businesses directly.
- Why: Quick, informal, and taps unadvertised roles.
7. Seasonal Work
- What: Temporary jobs during holidays (Christmas, Easter, summer).
- How: Target retail (e.g., John Lewis), events (festivals), or hospitality (hotels). Apply via company websites or job boards in October–November for winter.
- Why: Full-time hours allowed during breaks = bigger paychecks.
8. Internships and Placements
- What: Course-related work that counts as part of your degree.
- How: Ask your department about assessed placements (e.g., Engineering at Sheffield). Use Prospects.ac.uk for listings.
- Why: Builds career skills without eating into your 20-hour limit.
9. Gig Economy Apps
- What: Flexible, app-based roles like delivery or task help.
- How: Sign up for Deliveroo, Uber Eats, or TaskRabbit. Verify visa compliance (some gigs flirt with self-employment rules).
- Why: Work when it suits you—no fixed schedule.
10. Tutoring
- What: Teaching peers or younger students in your subject.
- How: Register with platforms like MyTutor.co.uk or advertise on uni boards. Use your academic strengths (e.g., Maths, Languages).
- Why: High hourly rates (£15–£30) and remote options.
11. Job Fairs and Recruitment Events
- What: In-person events connecting students with employers.
- How: Check uni calendars or Eventbrite for fairs (e.g., “National Student Jobs Fair 2025”). Bring CVs and chat up recruiters.
- Why: Face-to-face pitches can seal the deal.
12. Alumni Networks
- What: Tapping ex-students for job tips or referrals.
- How: Join your uni’s alumni group on LinkedIn or attend alumni mixers. Ask about part-time openings in their firms.
- Why: Trusted insider leads—less competition.
Top Tips for Success
- CV Prep: Tailor it to each job—highlight skills, not just experience. Uni careers teams can polish it for free.
- Visa Check: Always confirm your hours with employers to stay legal.
- Timing: Start early—September/October fills fast with freshers.
- Balance: Cap work at 15–20 hours to protect your grades.
What Jobs Can You Get?
- On-Campus: Library aide, barista, student mentor (£10–£12/hour).
- Off-Campus: Retail assistant (Tesco, M&S), waiter, dog walker (£11.44+/hour).
- Online: Virtual assistant, content writer (£12–£20/hour).
Final Thoughts
Finding part-time work in the UK as a student in 2025 is a blend of strategy and persistence. Whether you tap your uni’s resources, hit the high street, or browse online, opportunities abound. Stick to your visa rules, leverage this list, and you’ll soon be earning while learning. Ready to start? Pick one method today—your next payslip is closer than you think!
