In the UK, do you intend to work part-time while you study? There are crucial guidelines you must adhere to whether you’re attending the University of Leeds or any other university in the United Kingdom. Failure to do so may result in the loss of your degree or perhaps your visa.
Let’s go over all you need to know to work wisely, legally, and safely while you’re a student.
Can You Work While Studying?
Yes, but only under specific restrictions and only if your visa permits it. Students are advised that working above their permitted hours or without the required authorization is illegal. This includes unpaid positions as well.
Yes, according to UK immigration regulations, unpaid internships, volunteer work, and side gigs are considered work.
Read Also: UK Visa and Immigration—Visa Guide
How Many Hours Can You Work in UK With Your Studies?
Your weekly work limit depends on your course level and term time. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Course Type | Max Weekly Work (During Term) |
|---|---|
| Full-time Undergrad/Postgrad | 20 hours |
| Pre-sessional or Below Degree | 10 hours |
| PhD/Research Students | 20 hours (check with supervisor) |
You are supposed to keep track of your hours, and a “week” is defined as Monday through Sunday.
When Can You Work Full-Time?
Undergraduate Students (Bachelor’s Degree)
- Full-Time Work Allowed During:
- Christmas Break
- Easter Break
- Summer Break
You are permitted to work full-time jobs (more than 20 hours per week) during certain official university breaks.
Master’s Students (Taught Postgraduates)
- Full-Time Work Allowed During:
- Christmas Break
- Easter Break
- ❌ Summer Term (Dissertation Period):
- Even though there are no classes, you are only allowed to work 20 hours a week because it is regarded as a component of your academic program.
PhD Students (Research Postgraduates)
- Full-Time Work Allowed During:
- Official university holidays, which usually consist of 26 days annually in addition to university closures
- ⚠️ Since your research is continuous throughout the year, it is advised that you speak with your academic supervisor prior to accepting a full-time position.
Jobs You’re Not Allowed to Do on UK Study Visa in 2025
Self-Employment or Freelance Work:
You are unable to operate as a freelancer or manage your own company.
Running a Business:
Operating a Business: It is prohibited to run or own a business.
Professional Sportsperson or Coach:
Professional Coach or Sportsperson: It is prohibited to work as a coach or professional athlete.
Entertainment Industry Jobs:
Jobs in the entertainment industry include modeling, dancing, acting, and other entertainment-related positions.
Permanent Full-Time Jobs:
Permanent Full-Time Jobs: Full-time permanent employment is not permitted; you may only work part-time during the school year and full-time only during official breaks.
Volunteering vs. Voluntary Work Permission on UK Study Visa
You got the difference exactly right! Here is a brief, straightforward explanation of the differences between volunteering and voluntary work on a UK study visa:
Volunteering
- Flexible, informal, and unpaid; there are no rigid responsibilities or timetables.
- does not count toward the maximum number of hours you can work on a student visa.
- A typical example would be volunteering for a few hours at a charity with no official commitments.
Voluntary Work
- has established responsibilities, timetables, and standards.
- It does count toward your allotted working hours because it qualifies as work under UK immigration laws.
- more formal positions that may come with perks (like travel costs).
Internships & Work Placements Permission on British Student Visa
The good news is that you can complete a work placement as part of your full-time study as long as it is evaluated and formally accepted as a component of your degree.
Additionally, you are permitted to work up to 20 hours each week at a second part-time employment. Just be advised that the 20-hour limit is applicable if the placement is not covered by your degree syllabus.
Do you require additional time for a placement year? Your visa may need to be extended.
Proving You Can Work
Your employer must confirm your eligibility to work before hiring you. What you’ll need is as follows:
- Your passport
- A share code from the UKVI website https://www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-work/get-a-share-code-online
To help companies verify your work eligibility both within and outside of term time, you may also get a student registration status certificate that lists your course and term dates.
What If You’re on a Different Visa? – Can You Still Work in UK?
Exactly! Here’s a clear breakdown of work rights in the UK based on your visa type:
| Visa Type | Work Rights |
|---|---|
| Standard Visitor / ETA | No labor is permitted. Volunteering is only allowed with organizations that are registered. |
| Short-Term Study Visa | No work or voluntary work allowed. |
| EU Settlement Scheme | If you have settled or pre-settled status, you are permitted to work. |
| Graduate Visa | For up to two years—three years for PhD graduates—full-time employment is permitted in any industry. |
Extra tip:
Because you can work or hunt for opportunities in the UK without an employer sponsoring you, the Graduate Visa is a great post-study option. Just keep in mind that you need to apply for it before to the expiration of your student visa and after completing your degree.
Need info on how to apply for a Graduate Visa or what jobs you can do on it?
Reference
- https://students.leeds.ac.uk/visa-information-working-travelling/doc/working-study
- https://www.gov.uk/student-visa.
Conclusion
While it’s important to properly follow visa restrictions, working part-time while studying in the UK can be a great way to support yourself and get experience. You may stay in compliance and prevent endangering your studies or visa status by being aware of your allowed work hours, avoiding forbidden positions, and differentiating between voluntary and paid labor. Always verify the terms of your particular visa and get advice from the international student office at your university. You can maximize your time in the UK and successfully manage employment and education with careful planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while studying in UK?
Yes, but only within specific limits depending on your visa and course type. Working beyond permitted hours or without authorization is illegal.
How many hours am I allowed to work during term time?
During the academic year, full-time undergraduates and postgraduate students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week. Up to 10 hours per week are permitted for pre-sessional or lower degree courses.
