Savanna Hoffman
International students in the UK have a few options when it comes to working during and after their studies. Many take on part-time jobs to supplement their income and gain work experience, which can be on-campus or off-campus. After graduating, international students can apply for a graduate visa, which allows them to work in the UK for up to three years. They can then transition to a long-term work visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa, to stay and work in the UK permanently. The number of international students switching to work visas has increased, with many taking up jobs in the care sector.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Options for international students to work in the UK after graduation | 1. Apply for a long-term work visa such as the Skilled Worker Visa. This requires a job in an eligible occupation with an employer who is a licensed sponsor. |
| 2. Apply for the Graduate Route, which provides two to three years of work rights in any job. | |
| Recent trends | Recent cohorts of international students have been more likely to switch to work visas than in the past. |
| More students are switching to long-term Skilled Worker Route visas, which provide a path to permanent residence in the UK. | |
| Part-time work during studies | International students can work part-time during their studies. Many universities offer on-campus job opportunities, which are normally part-time roles in shops, cafes, bars, events, or student support. |
| There are also off-campus job options available. | |
| Full-time work during studies | Full-time work is allowed only during vacations or on a work placement that is an assessed integral part of the course, provided it does not exceed 50% of the course's length. |
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What You'll Learn
Part-time jobs for international students in the UK
International students in the UK can work part-time to supplement their income and the high cost of living in the UK. However, it's important to remember that your university course should always be your priority. Taking on too much work could make it harder to find study time, cause extra stress, or even impact your attendance.
There are three main types of part-time jobs for students in the UK:
- On-campus jobs: These are jobs that a student can do while remaining on campus during and after their study hours. These jobs may not pay well, but they provide a good experience. Many universities offer a range of on-campus job opportunities, which are usually part-time roles in shops, cafes, bars, events, or student support.
- Off-campus jobs: There are also plenty of off-campus job options to explore, especially in industries that employ part-time workers, such as hospitality and retail. Students often get casual work in these areas, as well as seasonal work over holiday periods.
- Work relevant to your studies: Looking for work that’s related to your field of study is a great way to build professional skills and prepare for working life as a graduate. This could be an internship or placement with a company or organisation.
To find a part-time job in the UK as an international student, you should first check in with your university's employability or careers team. They can connect you with relevant opportunities and help you appeal to employers in the UK. You'll also need to have a CV or resume to give to employers when you apply for jobs, and some applications may also require a cover letter. Remember to always comply with the rules laid down by the United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA) regarding part-time work permissions for students on visas.
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Graduate visa route
International students who want to work in the UK after graduation have the option of applying for a Graduate Route visa. This visa allows international students to stay in the UK and work or look for work in any sector and at any level. The Graduate visa lasts for two years for bachelor's and postgraduate degree holders and three years for PhD or doctoral qualification holders. It should be noted that the Graduate visa cannot be extended. However, students can switch to a different visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa, before their Graduate visa expires.
To be eligible for a Graduate visa, students must have studied a UK bachelor's degree, postgraduate degree, or other eligible course for a minimum period with a valid Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa. Additionally, their education provider must confirm to the Home Office that they have successfully completed their course. Students can check with their university or college to ensure this information has been communicated to the Home Office.
It is not necessary to have a job lined up before applying for a Graduate visa. Students can apply for the Graduate visa while their Tier 4/Student visa is still valid. If their Tier 4/Student visa expires while their Graduate visa application is pending, they will be allowed to remain in the UK until they receive a decision. During this pending period, the working conditions of their Tier 4/Student visa will continue to apply.
The Graduate visa provides international students with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and build their careers in the UK. It also allows them to explore different sectors and find the right fit for their skills and interests. The visa has been popular, with 129,000 graduate visas granted in the year ending September 2023.
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Skilled Worker visa route
International students who want to work in the UK after graduation have the option of applying for a long-term work visa such as the Skilled Worker visa. This visa route has gained popularity among international students, with an increase in the number of students switching to it. The Skilled Worker visa allows individuals to come to or stay in the UK to work in an eligible job with an approved employer.
To apply for the Skilled Worker visa, certain conditions must be met. Firstly, applicants must have a confirmed job offer from an approved UK employer, also known as a sponsor. The employer must provide a ''certificate of sponsorship' (CoS), which includes information about the role offered in the UK. Secondly, the job must be on the list of eligible occupations, and the salary must meet the minimum requirements. The specific eligibility criteria depend on the nature of the job, and each occupation has its own annual going rate. However, there are different salary rules for certain healthcare and education jobs, where the going rate is based on national pay scales.
It is important to note that the rules regarding when individuals can start working after applying for the Skilled Worker visa are complex and interact with other aspects of immigration regulations. If applying from overseas, individuals must wait until their visa is granted before travelling to the UK and commencing their employment. On the other hand, if applicants are switching from the Student route, the timing of their application, the course they studied, and other factors come into play.
The Skilled Worker visa is valid for up to five years, after which individuals may be able to apply for 'indefinite leave to remain' in the UK, allowing them to live, work, and study indefinitely. During the five-year period, if individuals change jobs or employers, they must apply to update their visa. Additionally, their partners and children can apply to join them in the UK as their 'dependants' if they meet the eligibility criteria.
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On-campus jobs
When looking for on-campus jobs, it is important to start with research as access to these positions can vary from one campus to another. Talking to theRelevant Documents: 0,1,2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22
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Answer: On-campus jobs are a great way for international students to gain work experience, earn some extra money, and get the most out of their university experience. Many universities in the UK offer a range of on-campus job opportunities, which are usually part-time roles tailored to fit the busy schedules of full-time students. These jobs can be found in various departments within the university, such as the library, computer labs, reception, gym, shops, cafes, bars, student union, cafeteria, administrative offices, or even as research assistants.
It is important to note that the availability and nature of on-campus jobs can vary between different universities. Therefore, it is recommended that international students research how student employment works at their specific university and consult with their institution's international students' office to understand any restrictions on working. International students must also ensure they have the necessary work authorisation and adhere to any restrictions on the number of hours they are permitted to work.
There are several ways international students can find out about on-campus job opportunities. Many universities offer dedicated platforms or websites where students can search for on-campus jobs, such as the Unitemps recruitment service at De Montfort University and the myfuture platform at Edinburgh Napier University. Additionally, participating in job fairs, career expos, and networking events hosted by the university or student organisations can help students learn about available positions. Talking to other students during orientation and throughout the year can also provide insights into on-campus job opportunities.
When applying for on-campus jobs, international students should be prepared to provide a CV/resume detailing their experience, education, and professional skills. Some applications may also require a cover letter explaining their interest and suitability for the role. It is important to tailor the application to each position and be mindful of any specific requirements or eligibility criteria.
The pay rates for on-campus jobs in the UK can vary depending on factors such as the type of role, level of responsibility, and location of the university. Generally, these jobs are paid at or slightly above the national minimum wage, but some universities may offer higher wages for specialised roles. On-campus jobs are subject to taxation, and students may have income tax and National Insurance contributions deducted from their earnings, depending on their total income for the tax year.
In addition to the financial benefits, on-campus jobs can provide international students with a meaningful way to contribute to the university community and gain valuable work experience that can enhance their CV/resume. These jobs can also help students develop soft skills such as punctuality, teamwork, and customer service, which can be beneficial for their future careers.On-campus jobs are a great way for international students to gain work experience, earn some extra money, and get the most out of their university experience. Many universities in the UK offer a range of on-campus job opportunities, which are usually part-time roles tailored to fit the busy schedules of full-time students. These jobs can be found in various departments within the university, such as the library, computer labs, reception, gym, shops, cafes, bars, student union, cafeteria, administrative offices, or even as research assistants.
It is important to note that the availability and nature of on-campus jobs can vary between different universities. Therefore, it is recommended that international students research how student employment works at their specific university and consult with their institution's international students' office to understand any restrictions on working. International students must also ensure they have the necessary work authorisation and adhere to any restrictions on the number of hours they are permitted to work.
There are several ways international students can find out about on-campus job opportunities. Many universities offer dedicated platforms or websites where students can search for on-campus jobs, such as the Unitemps recruitment service at De Montfort University and the myfuture platform at Edinburgh Napier University. Additionally, participating in job fairs, career expos, and networking events hosted by the university or student organisations can help students learn about available positions. Talking to other students during orientation and throughout the year can also provide insights into on-campus job opportunities.
When applying for on-campus jobs, international students should be prepared to provide a CV/resume detailing their experience, education, and professional skills. Some applications may also require a cover letter explaining their interest and suitability for the role. It is important to tailor the application to each position and be mindful of any specific requirements or eligibility criteria.
The pay rates for on-campus jobs in the UK can vary depending on factors such as the type of role, level of responsibility, and location of the university. Generally, these jobs are paid at or slightly above the national minimum wage, but some universities may offer higher wages for specialised roles. On-campus jobs are subject to taxation, and students may have income tax and National Insurance contributions deducted from their earnings, depending on their total income for the tax year.
In addition to the financial benefits, on-campus jobs can provide international students with a meaningful way to contribute to the university community and gain valuable work experience that can enhance their CV/resume. These jobs can also help students develop soft skills such as punctuality, teamwork, and customer service, which can be beneficial for their future careers.
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Work visa requirements
International students in the UK have several options for staying and working after graduation. The two main options are applying for a long-term work visa, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, or applying for the Graduate Route.
Skilled Worker Visa
International students can apply directly for a long-term work visa, such as the Skilled Worker Visa. To do this, they must have a job offer in an eligible occupation from an employer who is a licensed sponsor. This visa provides a path to permanent residence in the UK.
Graduate Route
The Graduate Route allows international students to stay in the UK and work or look for work for two to three years after graduation. After this period, they can remain in the UK if they can find a job that qualifies for the Skilled Worker Visa or another long-term work visa. Students do not need to have a job lined up before applying for the Graduate Route. The Graduate Route has been popular, with 129,000 graduate visas granted in the year ending in September 2023.
Student Visa
Students on a Student Visa can work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time, including paid or unpaid work. Once their course has ended and their visa remains valid, they can work full-time. However, they cannot work full-time or permanently until they have received a work permit (Tier 2 Visa). Self-employment, freelance, and contract work are not permitted on a Student Visa.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can work part-time while studying in the UK. This can be a great way to earn extra money, gain professional experience, and learn more about working life in the UK.
Full-time work is only allowed during vacations or if it is an assessed, integral part of the course, not exceeding 50% of the course's length.
International students have two main options: they can apply for a long-term work visa like the Skilled Worker Visa, or they can apply for the Graduate Route, which provides two to three years of work rights in any job.
On-campus jobs are a popular choice for international students, including roles in shops, cafes, bars, events, or student support services. Off-campus job opportunities are also available and can be explored.
International students need to be mindful of visa rules and work permit regulations. Additionally, they may encounter cultural differences in working life and should maintain a healthy study-life balance. Seeking guidance from university support services is recommended to navigate these challenges effectively.
