How many hours can I work per week as an international student in the UK and what job opportunities are there after graduation?
Yes, on a UK Student visa you can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during holidays, then apply for the Graduate visa, giving bachelor's and master's graduates 2 years of work rights before 2027, 18 months after, and PhD graduates 3 years.
Yes, as an international student in the UK you can work part-time during your course and then use the Graduate visa to work in the UK after you finish, without needing employer sponsorship for that period.
Work Rights While Studying and After Graduation
| Stage | Work Rights |
|---|---|
| During term time | Up to 20 hours per week |
| During official holidays | Full-time work permitted |
| Graduate visa, applications up to 31 Dec 2026 | 2 years of post-study work rights for bachelor's and master's graduates |
| Graduate visa, applications from 1 Jan 2027 | 18 months for bachelor's and master's graduates |
| Graduate visa for PhD or other doctorate | 3 years |
Post-Graduation Job Opportunities
- Technology: software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity roles are in steady demand.
- Business and finance: financial analyst, business analyst, and consulting roles suit business and finance graduates.
- Engineering and healthcare: mechanical, civil, and electrical roles, plus regulated healthcare professions, are common paths, though healthcare often needs additional UK professional registration.
My Advice
Start building your CV, internships, and university career service contacts from your first term rather than waiting for the Graduate visa to begin, since the visa gives you time to search for work but does not guarantee an employer will sponsor you afterward for a longer term route like the Skilled Worker visa.
Will you actually get a job after your UK master's?
Talk to a counsellor about real outcomes, salaries and which courses employers hire from.
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