By Flying Chalks
23 August 2022

Can I work part time in the UK on a Tier 4 student visa? What about career prospects after graduation? Where can I find job openings? Find out the answers to these common questions asked by international students!

With international experience increasingly favoured by employers and the bonus of supplementing your living expenses, working part time during your studies is a no-brainer. With an hourly minimum wage of £6.15 (USD 8) for 18 to 20-year-olds and £7.70 (USD 10) for 21 to 24-year-olds, just working for a week is enough to cover your monthly grocery shop! On top of that, you can expect a slower, more relaxed pace of work as compared to Asia!

A G7 economy, the UK has always been welcoming of foreign talent – even if you are not planning to work during your studies, read on to find out about career prospects after graduation!

 

 

Can I work part-time in the UK on a student visa?

The short answer to this is: yes! If you are studying for a full-time degree and hold a Tier 4 (General) student visa, you can work up to 20 hours weekly during term, and without restriction during breaks. This is even stated on your residence permit so you will not forget it!

Many international students work as waiters and baristas, both on and off campus. Supermarkets, cinemas and the like are also popular for shift-based work.

If you are only in it for the experience, just pop into any charity shop on your local high street and ask if they are looking for volunteers! Popular in the UK, charity shops sell used items – some of which are almost brand new – at bargain prices. Even if you don’t work there, you will likely find yourself popping in at the end of term to drop off items you simply cannot bring home!

 

 

How can my university help international students like me?

Every university has its own Careers Services, catering to international students. Information sessions are held during Welcome Week – take the chance to sign up to their newsletter, which sends the latest job openings straight to your inbox!

Furthermore, universities are always looking to hire their own students for internships and one-off events. Simply enter your interests and receive job openings for full-time positions you can apply for after graduation!

 

What about internships?

Unless you can find one that allows you to commit less than twenty hours per week, internships are generally reserved for school breaks (e.g. Summer and Winter holidays). Some universities have seasonal openings based around major events such as galas. However, slots are competitive and some universities may regulate each student to one internship throughout the length of their studies.

Contrary to expectation, it is not uncommon for international students to stay on and work during breaks, where you can earn enough to live comfortably next term!

 

What are the career prospects for international students?

If you finish your course in the 2020/21 academic year or later, you are eligible to stay in the UK for two years after your graduation! If you manage to find a permanent job in this time, you can obtain an employment visa without hassle! Even if you are planning on returning home, there is ample time to gain invaluable experience to improve your resume.

With the added advantage of being an English-speaking country, working in the UK has never been easier. Even if you are not planning on working during your studies, take advantage of your university’s career services to plan out your route after graduation. Someone in the International Office or Career Services will always be delighted to speak to you – so do not be afraid to ask for advice!

 

 

Need advice before embarking on your studies abroad? Here at Flying Chalks, we offer free consultations, and applications on your behalf to universities of your choice! A personal statement can make or break your application – do not take the risk and let our experienced team assist you in crafting one! Let us address your concerns regarding accommodation, cost of living, teaching methods, and more! Sign up now for a free consultation by filling in the form below!