Working while you study

How many hours can I work?

You can work as many hours as you like, so long as it does not affect your studies.

A sensible guideline for all full-time students is 12–15 hours per week. Remember that your studies need to take priority.

International students

If you are an international student from outside the EU, you should check your visa.

You visa should tell you if you can work and for how many hours a week. If you are allowed to work, this will usually be for no more than 20 hours per week.

If you are unsure check with the Home Office or UKCISA.

What else do I need to know about working part-time?

Before you can work you will need to apply for a National Insurance (NI) number. Depending on how much you earn, you may have to pay tax and NI.

National Insurance (NI)

• All UK citizens are issued with an NI number when they turn 16. If you were not a UK resident at age 16, you will need to apply for an NI number.
• Call 0845 600 0643 to make an application.
• You will have to pay NI if you earn more than £155 per week.
• Your employer will deduct NI from your wages. If you are self-employed, you will need to pay directly.

Tax

• You will have to pay income tax if you earn more than £211 a week or £916 per month.
• If you work for an employer, tax will be deducted from your wages through Pay As You Earn (PAYE).
• If you are self-employed, you will need to register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and pay your tax directly.
• Always keep your pay slips and any tax forms your employer or the government sends to you.
• If you earn less than £11,000 during the year (the 2016-17 personal allowance), you can claim the tax back. If you only work during the holidays, you might not need to pay any tax.

Further details are available at gov.uk.