What is the Minimum Wage for International Students in the UK?

26-May-2025

Pollstereducation

Study Abroad

What is the Minimum Wage for International Students in the UK?

The United Kingdom is one of the top destinations for international students due to its world-class universities, diverse culture, and strong academic traditions. For many international students, part-time work is not just a way to gain professional experience but also a means to manage living expenses. Understanding the UK’s minimum wage regulations is crucial if you plan to work while studying.

This blog will guide you through the latest minimum wage rates for 2025, rules for student employment, and what international students should keep in mind when taking up part-time jobs in the UK.

Understanding the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage

The UK government sets a National Minimum Wage (NMW) and a National Living Wage (NLW) based on age. These wages are reviewed annually and apply to most workers, including international students.

As of April 2025, the updated minimum wage rates in the UK are as follows:

Aged 21 and over (National Living Wage): £11.44 per hour
Aged 18 to 20: £8.60 per hour
Under 18: £6.40 per hour
Apprentices (under 19 or in the first year of apprenticeship): £6.40 per hour

International students working part-time while studying are legally entitled to these wages based on their age. Employers cannot pay below this threshold.

How Many Hours Can International Students Work?

If you are on a Student visa (formerly Tier 4), there are specific limitations to the number of hours you can work:

During term time: Up to 20 hours per week
During official university breaks (Christmas, Easter, summer): Full-time work is allowed
Postgraduate students with dissertations or coursework during summer: Still considered in term time, so the 20-hour rule applies

Make sure to check your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) and visa vignette, which clearly states your work rights and limitations.

What Types of Jobs Can Students Do?

International students in the UK typically take up part-time roles in sectors that offer flexible hours, such as:

Retail (stores, supermarkets, fashion outlets)
Hospitality (restaurants, cafes, hotels)
On-campus jobs (library assistant, student ambassador, IT support)
Customer service and call centers
Internships and placements (if included in the course curriculum)

However, certain jobs are not allowed, such as:

Being self-employed
Working as a professional sportsperson or coach
Taking permanent full-time positions
Starting your own business

Does Work Experience Help with Your Career?

Yes. Even if you work part-time in a non-academic job, it helps you develop key employability skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, and customer service. These soft skills are highly valued by employers in the UK and globally. If possible, seek internships or voluntary roles relevant to your career field to enhance your CV.

How Much Can You Earn as a Student?

Based on the minimum wage and permitted hours, a student aged 21 and over working the full 20 hours per week could earn:

Weekly income: £228.80
Monthly income (approximate): £915
During vacations (full-time work at 40 hours/week): £457.60 per week

These earnings can help cover accommodation, food, travel, and other living expenses, but are not sufficient to rely on as your primary funding source. Students are expected to have adequate financial support before arriving in the UK.

Tips to Maximise Your Part-Time Earnings

Search early: University job boards, recruitment agencies, and local shops often advertise vacancies early in the term.
Tailor your CV: Create a UK-style CV highlighting any customer service or relevant work experience.
Stay within legal limits: Never work beyond your visa-permitted hours. Violating rules can result in visa cancellation.
Track your hours and pay: Ensure your employer gives you a contract and pays you at least the minimum wage.
Know your rights: You are entitled to rest breaks, paid holidays, and protection from unfair treatment, just like any other worker in the UK.

Where to Look for Jobs

University career portals and notice boards
Job search websites like Indeed, Totaljobs, and StudentJob UK
High street recruitment agencies
On-campus events and job fairs

Some universities also have dedicated career services to help students with CV writing, interview preparation, and finding part-time or graduate work.

Penalties for Employers Who Underpay

It is illegal for employers in the UK to pay workers below the minimum wage. The UK government has strict penalties for such violations, including heavy fines and public naming of non-compliant employers. Students should report unfair pay to the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) or the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

The UK minimum wage offers a fair and structured framework that allows international students to earn money while studying. By understanding your legal work rights, wage entitlements, and limits on working hours, you can make informed decisions, earn some income, and gain valuable experience without violating your visa conditions.

Always plan your studies with financial stability as your foundation and treat part-time work as a supplement to enhance your skills and cover essential expenses.