Working In the UK as an International Student

Working while studying can be a great way to gain useful work experience, earn some money and meet people. Before you apply for jobs, make sure you are aware of the following: 

Work restrictions 

As an international student you may have restrictions on the number of hours you are allowed to work; and the type of work you can do. Click here for further information: International Students | MyCumbria  

Visas 

Find out more here: International Students | MyCumbria  

Please note - the Careers Service are unable to provide advice on work permits and visas.  

National Insurance 

Most employers in the UK will ask for your National Insurance (NI) number. This is a unique personal indentification number used in the UK to track your tak and social security contributions and you will need one if you plan to work while studying. If you haven’t got one, you can apply online at Apply for a National Insurance number: Who can apply for a National Insurance number - GOV.UK 

If you are considering working in the UK after your studies, you will need to understand your visa options. This government website provides the most UpToDate information. Check this regularly as the regulations are subject to change. 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) 

You can also email intss@cumbria.ac.uk for information about the process of applying for the post study work visa.

It’s important to understand what employers want, what jobs are available and UK recruitment processes. There may be differences to your home country.  These links can help you build your understanding: 

• Learn about the different job sectors in the UK 

• Find out what skills employers want 

• Understand your rights as an employee  

• Understand tax and the National Minimum Wage and the UK tax system when working part-time as an international student 

• Learn about CVs, applications and letters for UK jobs 

Networking can be an effective way to get a job, find out more about a particular career and build up useful contacts.   

• Finding a job: graduate careers advice | targetjobs 

• Networking: tips to help your career | National Careers Service 

Don’t forget that employers will use social media to ‘check out’ candidates, so make sure you have an online profile and it looks professional.  Read more here: 

Social media and job hunting | Prospects.ac.uk 

Social networking and graduate recruitment: manage your online reputation 

The graduate’s guide to creating the perfect LinkedIn profile 

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