Top 10 Part-Time Jobs in UK for International Students

For students studying in the UK, part-time jobs in the UK for International Students play a crucial role, especially for those from countries like India. These jobs not only help students manage their living costs but also provide them with practical experience that can be invaluable in their future careers.

These jobs also provide valuable work experience, improve employability post-graduation, and foster essential skills like communication and problem-solving. Additionally, these roles facilitate cultural integration, exposing students to local customs and aiding their assimilation into society.

Benefits of Doing a Part-Time Job in the UK

The average earnings from UK part time jobs for international students vary depending on the type of job, location, and hours worked, but it can range from £8 to £12 per hour. This income can help offset the high cost of living in the UK due to the following reasons:

• Earnings: On average, a student working 20 hours per week at the UK's minimum wage rate could earn around £160 to £240 per week before taxes.
• Rent: In major cities like London, the average student rent can be around £150 per week. Earnings from part-time work can cover a significant portion of this cost.
• Living Expenses: The remaining income can be used towards other living expenses such as groceries, transportation, and utilities.
• Savings: Any leftover money can be saved for future needs or emergencies.

Related Blog: Jobs in the UK for Indian Freshers

Types of Part-Time Jobs Available in the UK for International Students

With a multitude of roles to choose from, selecting the most suitable job aligned with individual needs and capabilities becomes imperative. Here is a list of top UK part-time jobs for International Students :

• Retail Assistant: Popular part-time job aiding customers and managing store tasks. Average base salary: £9.88/hour.
• Receptionist: Welcomes guests, handles calls, and performs administrative duties—average base salary: £8.97/hour.
• Tutoring: Provides tutoring services, enhancing skills and earning potential—average base salary: £24.50/hour.
• Customer Service Representative: This position offers flexible hours and assists in various industries. The average base salary is £11.13/hour.
• Library Assistant: Aids patrons with library tasks and computer usage. Average base salary: £10-15/hour.
• Data Entry Clerk: This position offers flexible hours, and minimal experience is required. The average base salary is £14.98/hour.

On-campus jobs

On-campus jobs refer to the employment opportunities that students can take up within their university premises during or after their academic hours. While these jobs might not meet the students' financial expectations, they offer valuable experience. The following are some of the best on-campus part-time jobs in the UK for International Students, along with their descriptions and average salaries:

Off-Campus Jobs

Off-campus part-time jobs require students to work outside their university premises. While these jobs can be a good source of income, they can also be time-consuming. The following are some of the off-campus highest-paying Part-time Jobs in the UK for International Students, along with their descriptions and average salaries:

How to Find Part-Time Jobs in the UK?

There is always a question about How to Get a part-time job in the UK for International Students. When preparing for your job search in the country, you should develop a CV that highlights your educational qualifications, relevant experiences, achievements, and skills. After you finish making your CV, proceed to search for jobs. Here are ways you can get yourself a part-time job:

• Local Newspapers: These are conventional but still effective, especially for local part-time work.
• Online Job Portals: Some websites, such as Indeed and Reed, have pages specifically created for students looking for part-time employment.
• University Career Centers: They often have facilities like bulletin boards with job listings, career fair dates, and employment postings.
• Networking: Talk to teachers, established students, graduates, and professionals about vacancies.
• Alumni Association: You may contact university alumni to be guided on possible job referrals too.
• Local Businesses: As well as asking about job vacancies at cafes, restaurants or shops in their area or supermarkets for instance.
• Social Media: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook groups, etc., are used widely to advertise jobs.
• Career Fairs and Events: Employers that are interested in hiring students for part-time jobs usually attend such gatherings.

How Much Do Part-Time Jobs in the United Kingdom Pay?

The average salary for part-time jobs in the UK for International Students varies depending on the type of job and the number of hours worked. As a student, you are limited to a certain number of work hours per day, which means you're likely to take on jobs that offer weekend or shift work. Interestingly, night shift pay is typically 1.5 times higher than day shift pay.

By law, all employers are required to pay at least the National Minimum Wage. Here's a breakdown of the average hourly pay based on age group:

• Under 18: £4.62
• 18-20: £6.56
• 21-22: £8.36
• 23 and above: £8.91

Students working part-time in the UK typically receive their pay on a weekly, fortnightly, or monthly basis directly into their bank account. It's important to have a clear understanding with your employer about the payment schedule before signing an employment agreement. This ensures transparency and avoids any potential misunderstandings in the future.

Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process for Part-Time Jobs in the UK

International students in the UK can work part-time if they meet eligibility criteria and follow regulations. Eligibility Criteria

• Age Requirement: Students need to be a minimum of 16 years old.
• Full-Time Enrollment: International students are required to be registered in a full-time degree course at a recognized UK university or institution.
• Visa Requirement: Students must hold a valid Tier 4 student visa, which permits part-time work in the UK

During term time, students can work up to 20 hours per week, increasing to full-time during vacation periods. Compliance with these rules is crucial for maintaining visa status. After studies, students can apply for a graduate visa, extending their work opportunities for up to two or three years, depending on their degree level.

Rules and Regulations for Part-time Jobs in the UK

While there's no set threshold distinguishing full or part-time work, full-time employees typically work 35 hours or more weekly. Part-time workers enjoy protection against discriminatory treatment compared to full-time counterparts, ensuring parity in pay rates, benefits, leave entitlements, training, and advancement opportunities. Benefits are often adjusted proportionally to hours worked.

Here are the key points for international students seeking part-time work in the UK:

• Students can only engage in authorized work during specified work hours.
• Only part-time employment is allowed during term time, while full-time work is permitted during vacations.
• During the academic term, students are permitted to work for a maximum of 20 hours each week. However, the Tier 4 sponsor and course difficulty may limit these hours.
• During vacation periods, students can work up to 40 hours per week.
• Students enrolled in language centers or foundation-level courses can work up to 10 hours per week during term time.
• Part-time students are not allowed to engage in part-time work.

Related Blog: How to Get a Job in the UK from India

Conclusion

Part-time jobs in the UK for International students present a valuable chance to gain work experience and financial support. Equal treatment rights safeguard part-time workers, ensuring parity in pay rates, pensions, holidays, and career development opportunities. Compliance with these rules is vital for maintaining visa status and fair treatment. Always verify additional regulations with respective institutions.

If you want more information about the various part-time job opportunities that are available for international students in the UK, reach out to our expert counsellors today. At AECC, we are determined to help all international students as they embark on their educational journey abroad!