Is it possible to start working while studying abroad, like through OPT or CPT in UK?
Yes, you can work while studying abroad, but the rules depend on your country and visa type.
In the UK, full-time students on a Student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacations. Some work types, like self-employment or running a business, are not allowed.
In the US, F-1 visa students can:
- Work up to 20 hours/week on campus during academic sessions
- Use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for off-campus work related to your field during your studies
- Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work in your field after graduation (typically up to 12 months; STEM graduates may get an extra 24 months)
Visa rules and work opportunities are subject to change.
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.
More Post-study work questions
- By when should my HEP point be completed, should it be this month to avoid delay in UK?
- Is Germany the best first priority country for my course and career scope for a Master's?
- Can I pursue an MBA abroad after completing a Bachelor of Science degree?
- Does the agency provide end-to-end services including visa, loan guidance, and accommodation?
- Do I need to show living expenses in my bank account for visa purposes, and can I withdraw it after reaching Ireland?
- After completing my studies, can I stay back in Ireland and apply for permanent residency for a Master's/Bachelor's?
- Can you explain the difference between Germany and Ireland regarding dependent visas and family stay for a PhD?
- Are golden visas available after education, and what are the eligibility criteria in UAE for a Master's/PhD?
More UK questions
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
- Can I study in the UK without IELTS, and which universities accept other English tests?
- How do US universities evaluate Indian LLM applicants differently from UK or European law schools?
- What is the fee range for a one-year MBA course compared to a two-year course in UK?
- Is the USA the best country option for my AI or data science master's program, or should I consider other countries in UK/Canada?
- What scholarships are available for Cybersecurity Master's programs in UK universities?
- Which universities in the UK offer MS Accounting & Finance for a B.Tech Computer Engineering graduate and ₹40 lakhs budget?
- Which course are you planning to do abroad in UK for a Master's/MBA?
