15 best part-time jobs in the UK for international students

Studying in the UK provides international students with a great opportunity to gain valuable work experience and earn some extra money by taking up part-time jobs.

In the UK, you’ll find a wide range of part-time job opportunities that suit different skills and interests. From retail and hospitality to academia and charity work, there is a job for everyone.

Find universities with flexible schedules that support your part-time job goals!

In this guide, we will discuss the best part-time jobs in the UK for international students.

Best part-time jobs you can apply for while studying in the UK

Part-time jobs are an ideal way for international students in the UK to supplement their income and gain valuable experience. There are a variety of options available, so you must choose the right job that fits your needs and abilities. Read about working while studying in the UK for International Students.

Here are the 15 best part-time jobs in the UK for international students.

1. Retail Assistant

Retail assistant jobs are one of the most popular part-time jobs in the UK for international students. Retail assistants help customers find items they need and provide advice and guidance on products. They also process payments, stock shelves, and maintain tidiness in the store. Most retail outlets are open late at night and on weekends, so that you can work around their studies.

Average base salary: GBP 11/hour

2. Receptionist

The receptionist is one of the best part-time jobs in the UK for international students. This job involves greeting and welcoming guests, answering telephone calls, responding to emails, and performing other general administrative tasks. It is an ideal job for international students like you, as it allows you to work in a professional environment while learning the English language and culture. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to meet and interact with people from all over the world.

Average base salary:  GBP 9/hour

3. Tutoring

Tutoring is a great way to earn some extra money while still having time for your studies. You can either offer tutoring services online or look for local opportunities to teach students one-on-one or in small groups. This job allows you to gain both skills and experience, as well as supplement your income.

Average base salary: GBP 25/hour

Want to learn about courses in the UK and part-time jobs that work around your schedule? Talk to our experts!

4. Customer service representative

Customer service representatives are an important part of the UK economy, and you’re often in demand by the hospitality, retail and other service-based industries. This is a great part-time job for international students like you, as it often requires flexible hours and minimal experience. In addition, companies like Amazon, Argos and Boots offer competitive wages and the chance to learn valuable customer service skills.

Average base salary: GBP 11/hour

Also read: Which degrees make the most millionaires?

5. Library assistant

You can apply for library assistant positions at public libraries or university libraries across the UK. Library assistants are responsible for helping patrons find books and materials, shelving and returning books, helping patrons with computer use, and providing customer service.

Average base salary: GBP 10-15/hour

6. Data entry clerk

A data entry clerk is another great option if you wish to make extra money without committing to full-time work. Roles such as data entry clerks are often available with minimal experience required and flexible hours that fit around your studies. Companies like Sky and BT offer competitive wages and the opportunity to learn important office skills such as data entry, typing and filing.

Average base salary: GBP 17.95/hour

7. Food delivery driver

Food delivery driver jobs involve delivering food from restaurants to customers' homes or workplaces. It’s an excellent job for international students because it involves a lot of flexibility. You can work whatever hours you want and use their car to make deliveries. It also provides an opportunity to get out of the house and explore the city.

Average base salary: GBP 10.42/hour

Find universities with flexible schedules that support your part-time job goals!

8. Barista

Baristas are on the front line of the coffee industry, offering their customers a unique and personalised experience. Baristas work at cafes and restaurants, making coffees and teas as well as preparing food items such as sandwiches or salads. This is one of the best part-time jobs in the UK for international students as it provides the opportunity to work in a vibrant and exciting industry.

Average base salary: GBP 9.97/hour

Also read: How can Indians get into UK universities?

9. Home care worker

Home care workers provide personal care and assistance to elderly or disabled people living in their own homes. For international students in the UK, this job offers the opportunity to gain valuable experience working with diverse populations while also earning some money. You can find employment opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and other health care institutes across the UK.

Average base salary: GBP 9.42/hour

You might also like

• Part-time jobs in Ireland for international students
• Part-time jobs in Canada for international students
• Part-time jobs in the USA for international students

10. Event planning

Event planning is an ideal part-time job for those with great organisational skills. As an event planner, you will be responsible for planning, organising and running events, such as conferences, parties, weddings and other gatherings. This type of job requires strong organisational and communication skills and a good understanding of the local market.

Average base salary: GBP 14.36/hour

11. Waitress/Waiter

Waitressing or waiting tables is a great part-time job for international students in the UK. Most restaurants are happy to hire international students, as the work is relatively straightforward and involves interacting with customers. The hours are flexible, and pay is usually around the minimum wage. This job offers you the chance to gain valuable hospitality experience and make some money.

Average base salary: GBP 12.18/hour

12. Theatre usher

Theatre ushers offer international students an exciting and rewarding opportunity to become part of the theatrical world. Many theatres and venues in the UK are always looking for ushers to help oversee performances and make sure everything runs smoothly. As an usher, you will constantly interact with guests and enjoy a great show every night.

Average base salary: GBP 10.68/hour

 Let’s guide you in finding courses in the UK! Talk to our experts!

13. Grocery store clerk

Grocery stores always look for enthusiastic individuals to help customers find what they're looking for, stock shelves, and help with checkouts. This job is perfect for those who enjoy interacting with people and have good organisational skills. The hours can often be flexible, which makes it a great option for those on a student visa.

Average base salary: GBP 8.95/hour

14. Dog walker

Dog walking is a great part-time job for international students who love animals and the outdoors. Many dog owners seek reliable and trustworthy individuals to take their pets on walks. As a dog walker, your job would be to walk dogs for their owners, picking up any mess the dogs make and ensuring that the area is kept clean.

Average base salary: GBP 12.50/hour

Also read: High-demand jobs in the UK

15. Warehouse worker

Warehouse workers are an integral part of the UK’s logistics industry, ensuring that goods are moved efficiently and safely from one place to another. There are numerous positions available for international students, such as forklift operator, stock picker or packer. Warehouse workers are generally expected to have good physical health, as they will be required to lift, carry and move heavy items.

Average base salary: GBP 10.08/hour

Also read: How to negotiate for a part-time job

Overview of the best part-time jobs in the UK for international students

The UK is an excellent destination for international students looking for part-time jobs. The above-mentioned part-time jobs in the UK allow you to gain invaluable career-building experience while studying. It can also help supplement income and finance your studies in the UK. 

From hospitality to retail and entertainment to education, there are many options available for international students. If you’re looking to work full-time, here are some most in-demand jobs in the UK. 

Find universities with flexible schedules that support your part-time job goals!

Eligibility requirements for the popular part-time jobs in the UK

The minimum age for international students to take up part-time jobs in the UK is 16. You must be enrolled in a full-time course at a recognised institution in the UK and should hold a valid Tier 4/Student Route visa with a permit for part-time work.

Here’s a list of the popular part-time jobs in the UK, along with the eligibility requirements.

Note: Some roles, such as delivery driver or warehouse worker, might have additional requirements like a driver’s license and background checks.

Comparison of part-time jobs in the UK vs other popular study destinations

Popular study destinations like the US, the UK, Australia, and Canada offer several part-time job opportunities, so that you can support your finances and also gain work experience. However, the job types and the work-hour limits vary across the countries.

Here’s a comparison of the part-time jobs and work hours allowed in different study abroad destinations.

Related articles

What are the best short-term courses in the UK for Indian graduates?

Which are the best universities in the UK for Data Science?

Best MBA universities in the UK for international students

City-wise salary breakdown of part-time jobs in the UK

Your earnings from part-time jobs also differ based on the city you choose. In London, international students can earn an average pay of GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000 annually before taxes. However, salaries in London are higher compared to other cities because of the higher demand and cost of living, while the salaries might be slightly lower in other cities. 

Here’s a comparison of the salary breakdown of the part-time jobs in UK cities.

Sources: Instarem | Scholarship Scanner 

Note: International students' average annual earnings through part-time jobs range between GBP 10,000 to GBP 13,000. The income can cover some of the living expenses, which range between GBP 15,000 to GBP 19,200 in London and GBP 10,800 to GBP 16,200 outside London. 

Visa requirements for part-time jobs in UK

International students need a valid UK Student visa or Tier 4 visa to work part-time in the UK. To be eligible for a student visa, you must also be enrolled in a full-time academic programme in an institution recognised by the UK government and hold a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. In addition, you will need to produce your financial statements and proof of English language proficiency.

Self-employment, freelance, or gig work is forbidden under student visa rules

Note: Ensure that you adhere to the work permissions on the student visa and also the restrictions specified by your university. Once you secure a part-time job, you must apply for a National Insurance Number.

Legal limitations for part-time jobs in the UK

The minimum age limit to take up part-time employment in the UK is 16. You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and work full-time during official holidays and vacations. 

If you’re pursuing a foundation course or a programme below undergraduate level, you may be allowed to work only up to 10 hours a week during term time. You're not permitted to work in the UK if you're a part-time student or hold a short-term study visa. 

Note: The limits specified above cover all paid and unpaid work regardless of the number of employers. 

While working part-time, you must comply with the visa specifications on the number of hours and type of work. Any deviations from the work permissions will be considered as visa violations and could lead to visa curtailment or deportation.

Maintain an accurate record of your working hours and employment contracts. It’s also important to verify that your employer is a legitimate employer that follows the employment laws of the UK. If required, seek guidance from the student advisors at your university. 

How can international students find part-time jobs in the UK? 

International students can find numerous part-time job opportunities, both on-campus and off-campus. You can start your job search by checking the vacancies available through the university career services. Universities also provide job portals where various on-campus positions are listed. Apply for these vacancies as most of the jobs are convenient and flexible, providing you with the opportunity to balance your work and studies smoothly.

You can search for off-campus jobs through the listings on job boards and recruitment websites. Several popular job boards like Reed and student-specific portals provide information on vacancies in retail, tutoring, hospitality, and more. 

Another popular option is to use online platforms like LinkedIn and build a professional network. You can attend networking events, career fairs, and workshops to connect with employers. These activities will help you reach job opportunities that are not advertised.

Before you apply, prepare a strong CV and cover letter that highlights your skills and academic strengths. Take support from your university’s career support service on job search, CV writing, and interview preparation. To secure a job fast, it’s recommended that you apply widely and follow up with employers after you submit your application. 

List of job portals for international students in the UK

Here’s a list of the popular job portals in the UK to simplify your job search:

• Indeed 
• Reed
• StudentJob 
• Save the Student 
• Totaljobs 
• Graduate Jobs 
• Prospects

How to file taxes for part-time work as an international student in the UK

International students who are working part-time have to adhere to the taxation rules of the UK. If your earnings exceed the threshold of GBP 12,570 per tax year, you must pay the specified income tax. Apart from this, if your weekly earnings exceed GBP 242, you’ll have to make the National Insurance Contributions (NIC). For most international students, these amounts are deducted by their employers through the Pay As You Earn system. 

Listed below are the steps to file taxes as an international student engaging in part-time work:

1. Determine your tax residency status. You're considered a tax resident if you have been staying in the UK for more than 183 days in a tax year.
2. Collect your payslips and National Insurance Number.
3. Check if tax has been deducted through the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system. The employers automatically deduct the tax and NIC contributions of international students through PAYE.
4. If there is any overpayment of the tax, apply for a refund using the P50 form. You can also contact HMRC for the refund.
5. Submit a self-assessment tax return if you have any untaxed income or income from self-employment.

Your National Insurance Number will serve as a record of the tax payments and the NIC payments. It’s advised to keep a record of your earnings and tax deductions for compliance.

Note: You can seek support on tax-related matters from HMRC’s student tax guidance. If you fail to comply with tax laws, you might face penalties or a negative impact on future visa applications. 

Part-time job opportunities based on different fields of study

International students can take up several part-time jobs related to their field of study. If you're a STEM student, you can find roles such as research assistant and data analyst, while students from fields like Business, Arts, or Economics can also find specialised roles aligned with their academic background.

Here’s a summary of the part-time job opportunities you can take up based on your field of study.

Note: While you take up part-time employment, it’s important to balance your work with your academic commitments. There are various types of jobs with flexible hours that you can consider so that your studies and work go hand in hand.

Seasonal part-time job opportunities in the UK for international students

During the summer months, you can take up part-time jobs and earn additional income. There are numerous jobs in sectors like retail, hospitality, summer camps, and delivery services which are available on a temporary basis. You might also find seasonal openings in your university as an administrative assistant or a library assistant. 

Here’s an overview of the seasonal part-time job opportunities for international students.

Sources: WorldEDX | Prospects

Once you complete your course, you can apply for the Graduate Route visa. It allows you to stay and work for 2 years after course completion which can be extended to 3 years if you’re a PhD student. With the Graduate Route visa, you can switch jobs and take up any kind of employment. 

Final thoughts

Part-time jobs are an excellent choice for international students in the UK to support their finances and gain valuable work experience. The UK provides numerous part-time job opportunities across sectors such as retail, hospitality, education, and more. You’re eligible to take up part-time jobs if you hold a valid student visa. 

While you seek part-time jobs, ensure that you do not violate the visa guidelines and limit your work to the specified work hours. Furthermore, ensure that your taxes on the income are also paid on time.

Let us help you enrol in the best courses in the UK. Start your study-abroad journey right away!

Frequently asked questions

1. What are the best part-time jobs in the UK for international students?

The best part-time jobs in the UK for international students are retail assistant, receptionist, tutor, barista, theatre usher, library assistant, data entry clerk, dog walker, waiter, and warehouse worker.

2. What does the receptionist job involve?

The receptionist job involves greeting and welcoming guests, answering telephone calls, responding to emails, and performing other general administrative tasks. It allows international students to work in a professional environment while learning the English language and culture.

3. What are the main responsibilities of an event planner?

As an event planner, you will be responsible for planning, organising and running events, such as conferences, parties, weddings and other gatherings.

4. What is the role of a dog walker?

As a dog walker, your job would be to walk dogs for their owners, picking up any mess the dogs make and ensuring that the area is kept clean.

5. What are the best part-time jobs in the UK for international students with limited English?

International students with limited English can seek part-time employment in manual work or task-based roles where customer interaction is less. You can look for jobs such as a delivery driver, a warehouse worker, or a cleaner.

6. How do working hour limits affect international students' part-time job choices in the UK?

Working hour limits restrict the maximum work hours to 20 hours per week during term time. As a result of the work hour limit, students often seek jobs with short hours or shift work in sectors such as retail and hospitality.

7. Which UK cities offer the best opportunities for student part-time jobs?

London, Nottingham, and Manchester offer the best part-time job opportunities for international students in the UK. These cities have a strong economy and abundant jobs available in business, digital, and technology sectors.

8. How can international students find higher-paying part-time jobs in the UK?

You can find higher-paying part-time jobs by focusing on roles that match your academic background. Further, you should build a good professional network and also actively engage in various job portals and career fairs. 

9. What legal restrictions should international students be aware of when working part-time in the UK?

You must adhere to the Student visa rules while seeking part-time employment. You can work only up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during university holidays and vacations.

10. Can I do delivery jobs on a UK student visa?

The UK Student visa does not allow you to take up self-employment, freelance or gig jobs, which include delivery jobs for companies like Uber Eats. These are considered self-employment.

11. What is the average hourly pay for part-time jobs in UK universities?

The average hourly pay for part-time jobs in UK universities vary based on the type of job and the university. However, you can expect a paid between GBP 9 and GBP 15 per hour and higher pay for specialised roles like tutoring.

12. Are employers in the UK biased against students on visas?

Most employers adhere to the visa work restrictions and are ready to accommodate the visa conditions while employing international students. There are no reported incidents of bias against students on visas.

13. How much can I earn part-time per week as a student in London?

You can earn an average of GBP 180 to GBP 300 per week by working part-time and adhering to the 20-hour work limit. The earnings will vary based on the sector and job type.

14. How can I balance my studies with a part-time job?

For balancing your studies with a part-time job, you must create schedules for your work and study where there’s ample time for academics. Choose jobs where the job hours are flexible so that you can manage your time effectively.