As a full-time master's student in the UK, how many hours can I work and what can I earn?
On a UK full-time master's, you can typically work up to 20 hours per week in term time and full-time during holidays. At GBP 12.71 per hour for age 21 and over, that is about GBP 254 weekly in term, before tax. No fixed 40-hour holiday cap applies.
As a full-time master's student in the UK, you can work part-time during your studies: up to 20 hours a week in term time and full-time during university holidays. At the minimum wage of GBP 12.71 (approx INR 1,627) per hour for age 21 and over from April 2026, your pay before tax adds up as shown below.
Hours and likely earnings
| Period | Hours per week | Approximate pay before tax |
|---|---|---|
| Term time | Up to 20 | 254 (approx INR 32,509) per week |
| University holidays | Full-time, with no fixed 40-hour cap | 508 (approx INR 65,019) per week at 40 hours |
Jobs you can look at
- Retail and hospitality roles are common student jobs.
- Tutoring and on-campus positions are also popular.
- A student visa does not permit freelancing or self-employment.
My Advice
Treat part-time income as a help with living costs, not as a way to fund your whole stay. Keep your hours within the visa limit and make sure the job schedule never cuts into your classes.
How much can you actually earn part-time in the UK?
See how part-time work fits into your total budget and visa funds.
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