Moving to the UK for your studies is exciting, but figuring out how to balance work and academics can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re taking a foundation course or pursuing a PhD, understanding how many hours you can work, when, and what paperwork is needed is essential not just for staying compliant with visa rules, but for protecting your future dreams.
Imagine landing your first part-time job while studying, gaining independence, and building a network, all while knowing you’re following the law and safeguarding your immigration status. That balance between opportunity and responsibility can shape an unforgettable student experience.
Working in UK:
Your education level and visa type will determine your capacity to work in the UK. What you should know is as follows:
1. Sub-degree Level (Foundation or Pre-sessional Courses)
During term time, work up to ten hours a week.
During official holidays, work full-time.
2. Degree Level and Above (Undergraduate, Postgraduate, PhD)
During term time, put in up to 20 hours a week.
During the holidays, work full-time (under UK employment laws).
How to Verify Your Right to Work?
Your employer must confirm your employment eligibility if you land a job while studying in the UK. Here’s how to offer evidence:
1. Download a Work Entitlement Letter
- Choose “Confirmation of Work Entitlement” after logging into your E:vision account.
- Verify your course and personal information.
- Your university email address will receive the letter.
- Give your employer this letter so they can verify your right to work.
2. Verify Your Academic Dates
- To verify the start and end dates of your course, you can also download the official PGT dates with vacations PDF.
Important Reminder:
Don’t work more than the maximum number of hours permitted during the school year. Your immigration status may suffer significantly if you violate these requirements. Do you need help locating part-time work that complies with UK student visa requirements?
Check Also: Work in UK on Student Visa
Work Opportunities After Graduation in UK:
The following immigration pathways allow you to continue working in the UK after completing your studies at York St. John University (YSJU):
1. UK Graduate Visa
- permits you to finish your undergraduate or graduate degree and remain and work in the UK for a minimum of two years.
- You must finish your course completely, and the School Assessment Board must approve your scores.
- When you are eligible to apply, you will receive an email from the Visa and Compliance team informing UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
- Before your existing student visa expires, you must apply.
- Apply here: UK Graduate Visa.
2. Skilled Worker Visa
- Available once you secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK.
- You do not need to pass your course to apply, but many employers require course completion.
- Check the job requirements with your prospective employer.
- More details: Skilled Worker Visa.
Do you need help locating UK companies that sponsor the skilled worker visa?
Steps After Graduation in UK:
All qualifying graduates will automatically get a Course Completion Letter from York St. John University (YSJU) and other UK universities. This document attests to your fulfillment of all academic prerequisites and your eligibility to apply for a graduate or skilled worker visa.
Full-Time Work Eligibility
- Get your E: Vision Work Entitlement Letter here.
Application Process for Students Work in UK With Studies:
- Only after you have received your entire prize and verified results may you submit an application.
- UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will be notified on your behalf by YSJU’s Visa and Compliance team.
For more details, visit: YSJU Visa & Immigration Information.
Conclusion:
Balancing work and studies in the UK is all about knowing your limits and following visa rules. Students can verify their right to work through official letters and academic confirmations. After graduation, pathways like the UK Graduate Visa or Skilled Worker Visa open doors to full-time opportunities and career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How can students verify their right to work in the UK?
Students can get a Work Entitlement Letter from their E:Vision account, which they must give to their employer. Academic dates can also be confirmed with a YSJU official document.
When can graduates apply for the UK Graduate Visa?
Graduates can apply once they receive their final results and Course Completion Letter. YSJU’s Visa & Compliance team will inform UKVI of their eligibility.
