LeapScholar

Am I allowed to do part-time jobs during my studies in the UK, and what are the work hour limits?

31 Aug 2026 · Answered by Rakshitha Muthukumar · 2 min read
Quick Answer verified

Yes, you can work part-time on a UK Student visa. Degree-level courses allow up to 20 hours per week during term time, while below-degree courses allow up to 10 hours. You can work full-time during official holidays, but the weekly cap is strict and cannot be averaged across multiple weeks.

Rakshitha Muthukumar
Rakshitha Muthukumar Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Yes, you are allowed to work part-time during your studies in the UK if you hold a Student visa for a full-time course at a recognized institution. Exactly how many hours you can work depends on your course level.

Work Hour Limits by Course Level

Course LevelWeekly Limit During Term Time
Degree-level (Undergraduate/Postgraduate)Up to 20 hours per week
Below degree-level (foundation, pre-sessional)Up to 10 hours per week
Official vacation periodsFull-time work is permitted

Key Rules and Restrictions to Keep in Mind

  • The weekly cap is strict for each individual week, Monday to Sunday, and cannot be averaged across multiple weeks.
  • You can hold more than one job, but your combined hours across all jobs cannot exceed your weekly limit.
  • You cannot be self-employed, run a business, freelance, or work as a professional sportsperson, coach, or entertainer.
  • If you are on a one-year Master's, your summer months usually still count as term time since you are expected to work on your dissertation, so check with your university before working full-time then.

My Advice

Always check your Biometric Residence Permit or digital immigration status for your exact work conditions before accepting any job, since this confirms your specific allowance. Track your weekly hours carefully across every job you hold, since exceeding the cap even in one week counts as a visa breach.

How much can you actually earn part-time in the UK?

See how part-time work fits into your total budget and visa funds.

4.7/5 Google 🎓 25K+ admits
Get My Cost Estimate

More Cost & living questions

More UK questions

🎓 Can you earn part-time in the UK? Get Cost Estimate