How many hours can I work per week while studying a degree-level course in the UK, and how much can I earn per hour?

Yes, on a UK Student visa for a degree-level course you can work up to 20 hours a week during term time, and full-time during official university holidays, provided the job is legally permitted under your visa conditions.

UK Minimum Wage Rates for Working Students in 2026

What This Means for Your Weekly Earnings

• Term time cap: 20 hours a week is the maximum, not an entitlement, so your employer cannot give you more if your visa does not allow it.
• Holiday earnings: Working full-time at around 40 hours a week during holidays at GBP 12.71 an hour comes to roughly GBP 508 a week before tax if you are 21 or older.
• National Insurance number: You need one to work legally and get paid correctly.
• Restricted activities: You cannot be self-employed, run your own business, or work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer.

My Advice

Part-time work during term is meant to support your living costs, not your tuition, so budget your fees separately and treat any earnings as a buffer, and always confirm your exact weekly hour limit and job restrictions with your university's international student office before accepting an offer.