Working when studying on a Student visa below degree level
You can work up to a maximum of 10 hours a week during semester time (see semester dates below). It is very important that you never work more than the maximum hours allowed, even for just one week. This would be a breach of your immigration conditions and a criminal offence. The UKVI consider a week to start on a Monday and finish on a Sunday. If you work less hours in one week, it does not mean you can work more the following week.
During University vacation periods you are free to work full time. If your employer asks for proof of the vacation period, you can refer them to the Official University Semester Dates on the website.
The University, as your sponsor, will have to report you to the Home Office if we discover that you are working when you shouldn't be.
Working when studying on a Student visa at degree level
You can work up to a maximum of 20 hours a week during semester time (see semester dates below). It is very important that you never work more than the maximum hours allowed, even for just one week. This would be a breach of your immigration conditions and a criminal offence. The UKVI consider a week to start on a Monday and finish on a Sunday. If you work less hours in one week, it does not mean you can work more the following week.
During University vacation periods you are free to work full time. If your employer asks for proof of the vacation period, you can refer them to the Official University Semester Dates on the website. Your employer can also refer to Gov.uk guidance on right to work checks. Please note that vacation periods differ depending on which course you are studying, for example, if you are a masters student the holiday period does not apply when you are writing your dissertation or research project. During this period you are only allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. For more details, see semester dates below.
The University, as your sponsor, will have to report you to the Home Office if we discover that you are working when you shouldn't be.
Working on a Student visa when you have completed your course
After the end date of your course has passed (as recorded on your Student Portal and CAS) you can work full time, as this is no longer considered to be semester time. If you need to prove this to an employer, the Student Central Advice Team can provide you with a letter to confirm you have completed your course and are awaiting your results. Whilst still on a Student Visa, you should not start a permanent post. This means a job without an end date.
Short-term Student visa or Visitor visa
You cannot work if you have a Short-term Student visa or a Visitor as this would be a breach of your immigration conditions and a criminal offence.
The University, as your sponsor, will have to report you to the Home Office if we discover that you are working when you shouldn't be.