Part-Time Work in the UK: A Simple Guide for Indian Students
Earn, Learn, and Grow While Studying in the UK!
16 June 2025
Studying in the UK offers more than just academic knowledge, it’s an opportunity to build life skills, gain international work experience, and manage your personal expenses. For many Indian students, part-time work plays a key role in making student life smoother and more affordable.
We don’t just help you get into the right university, we support you with the right information about working while you study. Let’s explore the part-time work rules in the UK and the types of jobs you can do.
Part-Time Work Rules: What You Need to Know
When you study in the UK on a student visa, there are clear guidelines you must follow:
Working Hours During Term Time
You can work up to 20 hours per week during your university’s official study period if you’re studying at degree level or higher at a recognized university.
Full-Time Work During Holidays
When your university is on official holidays like summer, winter, or spring breaks, you are allowed to work full-time.
Jobs You Can Do
You can take up jobs in:
- Cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets
- Shops and retail stores
- Call centres
- University libraries and student ambassador roles
- Internships or part-time placements (paid or unpaid)
Jobs You Cannot Do
There are some restrictions:
- You cannot work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer.
- You cannot start your own business.
- Permanent full-time jobs are not allowed while on a student visa.
Top Part-Time Jobs Indian Students Choose in the UK
Many Indian students in the UK successfully balance part-time jobs with their studies. Some popular options include:
- Retail Assistant: Working in clothing stores, supermarkets, or malls.
- Customer Service: Jobs in cafes, restaurants, or call centres.
- Hospitality: Roles in hotels, fast-food outlets, and catering.
- Campus Jobs: Working at the university as a library assistant or student guide.
- Delivery Services: Opportunities with companies like Uber Eats or Deliveroo (check local regulations).
- Internships or Volunteering: Great for gaining work experience in your study field.
Why Part-Time Work is a Smart Choice
- Helps you earn pocket money to manage daily expenses.
- Builds global work experience for your future career.
- Improves your English communication and workplace skills.
- Boosts your confidence and grows your professional network.
- Teaches you to balance work and studies, improving time management.
Key Reminders for Students
- Always check your visa rules printed on your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) card and visa documents.
- Never work more hours than your visa allows. Breaking work limits can cause serious visa problems.
- Make sure your studies always come first.
- As of now, the minimum wage in the UK for students ranges from £6.83 to £11.44 per hour depending on your age.
Need Help With Your Swiss Study Visa?
At BCES Admissions Abroad, we specialize in guiding Indian students through every step of the Swiss university application and visa process.
Call us at 8800096600 or visit our website www.bces.in to book a free consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official holidays if you are studying at degree level or higher.
You can work in retail, restaurants, supermarkets, universities, and many other sectors. However, you cannot work as a professional athlete, entertainer, or take a permanent full-time job.
If you manage your time well, part-time work should not disturb your studies. In fact, it can help you become more organized and disciplined.
Yes, if your income crosses the UK’s tax-free allowance limit. Your employer usually deducts tax and National Insurance directly from your salary.
Yes, after your studies, you can apply for the Graduate Route visa which allows you to work full-time in the UK for up to two years (three years if you have completed a PhD).
