£42,000 Undergraduate Job In The UK. Apply Now

£42,000 Undergraduate Job In The UK. Apply Now

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Introduction

Finding an undergraduate job in the UK is a smart step for students looking to earn extra income, gain hands-on experience, and build a professional network while studying. Whether you're a local or international student, there are a wide variety of part-time and flexible job opportunities across industries like retail, hospitality, admin, and tutoring.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about undergraduate work in the UK, from eligibility and job options to common mistakes and tips for success.

Why Get a Job as an Undergraduate in the UK?

Working part-time as an undergraduate student offers several advantages:

  • Extra income to support living expenses, tuition fees, or leisure activities

  • Professional experience to boost your CV and future employability

  • Soft skills development, including communication, time management, and teamwork

  • Networking opportunities that can lead to graduate jobs after university

  • Understanding of UK work culture, especially for international students

While academics should remain a priority, many universities encourage part-time work to enhance students’ personal and career development.

Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Jobs in the UK

Before applying for jobs, it's essential to check if you're eligible to work as a student. Requirements vary based on your nationality and visa type.

1. UK and Irish Students

  • No restrictions on working hours or job types.

  • Can work full-time during holidays and part-time during term time.

2. International Students (Tier 4 or Student Visa Holders)

  • Allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time.

  • Can work full-time during official vacation periods.

  • Not permitted to be self-employed, freelance, or start a business.

  • Job must not be filling a permanent full-time role.

  • Check your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) or visa vignette for work permissions.

Always confirm your working conditions with the UK Home Office or your university’s international office to avoid breaching visa rules.

Types of Jobs for Undergraduate Students in the UK

Undergraduate students have access to various flexible and part-time jobs. Some of the most common include:

1. Retail Jobs

  • Sales assistant, cashier, shelf stacker

  • Employers: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Boots, Primark, WHSmith

  • Flexible shifts, especially evenings and weekends

2. Hospitality and Catering

  • Waiter/waitress, barista, bartender, kitchen assistant

  • Work in restaurants, pubs, hotels, or cafés

  • Good for those with strong customer service skills

3. University Jobs

  • Student ambassador, library assistant, research assistant

  • Flexible, well-paid, and conveniently located on campus

  • Often available through your university's job portal

4. Administrative Work

  • Office assistant, receptionist, data entry

  • Opportunities in local councils, startups, and nonprofits

5. Tutoring

  • Help school students or fellow undergraduates with academic subjects

  • Often freelance but must follow visa rules

  • Sites like MyTutor and Superprof can help connect you with students

6. Delivery and Warehouse Work

  • Work for companies like Amazon, Deliveroo, Just Eat, or local logistics providers

  • Physically demanding but well-paid

7. Call Centre and Customer Support Roles

  • Perfect for strong communicators

  • May involve remote work or evening shifts

8. Internships and Summer Placements

  • Typically available during summer breaks

  • Provide industry-specific experience in sectors like tech, finance, law, etc.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an Undergraduate Job in the UK

Here’s how you can successfully land a part-time or flexible job while studying:

Step 1: Update Your CV

  • Keep it concise (1 page for undergrads).

  • Highlight any previous work, volunteering, or academic achievements.

  • Tailor it to the job you're applying for.

Step 2: Register on Job Sites

Use popular UK job portals that cater to student-friendly roles:

Step 3: Apply to Local Businesses

  • Visit shops, restaurants, and cafés near your university.

  • Bring printed copies of your CV.

  • Make a good impression with polite and professional communication.

Step 4: Check University Jobs

  • Many universities offer on-campus roles for students.

  • Look at your student portal or speak to the careers service.

Step 5: Prepare for Interviews

  • Research the company

  • Practice answering common interview questions

  • Dress appropriately, even for online interviews

Step 6: Start Working and Manage Your Time

  • Keep a balance between work and studies

  • Avoid working during lectures or important academic sessions


Best UK Job Sites for Undergraduate Students

These websites are particularly useful for students looking for part-time, weekend, or flexible roles:

  • StudentJob UK – Focused entirely on student and graduate roles.

  • E4S – Offers thousands of part-time jobs, internships, and placements.

  • Indeed – Use filters like "part-time", "student", or "evenings/weekends".

  • Reed – Great for admin, tutoring, and office work.

  • LinkedIn – Good for finding internships and professional opportunities.

  • Gumtree – Offers casual work but exercise caution with job ads.

Average Pay for Undergraduate Jobs in the UK

As of 2025, the National Minimum Wage in the UK is:

  • Aged 18–20: £7.49/hour

  • Aged 21–22: £10.18/hour

  • Aged 23 and over: £11.44/hour (National Living Wage)

Most undergraduate jobs pay between £8–£12/hour, depending on the role and location. London-based jobs often pay more to offset the high cost of living.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overworking during term time
    Working more than 20 hours (if you're on a visa) can result in visa cancellation.

  2. Neglecting academics
    Don’t let work interfere with assignments, lectures, or exams.

  3. Using the same CV for every job
    Always tailor your application to match the specific job.

  4. Taking cash-in-hand jobs
    Avoid under-the-table jobs that bypass employment rights – they’re illegal and risky.

  5. Missing out on on-campus opportunities
    Many students forget to check university job boards or talk to career advisors.

  6. Ignoring employment contracts
    Read your contract carefully to understand working conditions, notice periods, and pay.

  7. Assuming all jobs are covered under your visa
    Some roles like self-employment or freelance are not allowed for international students.

Tips for Balancing Work and Study

  • Use a planner or app to manage your schedule

  • Set work limits during busy academic periods

  • Communicate with your employer about your availability

  • Make use of university support services like counselling or academic tutors

  • Take care of your health, both mental and physical

Benefits of Working as an Undergraduate

  • Build a strong CV early on

  • Gain references from employers for future jobs

  • Improve time management

  • Develop workplace confidence

  • Learn financial independence

For international students, part-time work also offers immersion into British culture, language improvement, and exposure to the UK job market.

Conclusion

Undergraduate jobs in the UK provide much more than just pocket money – they build confidence, work ethic, and employability. From retail and hospitality to on-campus roles and tutoring, there's a wide range of options to suit different skills and schedules.

Whether you're a local or international student, make sure to balance work with study, stay within visa limits, and take advantage of all the opportunities that working in the UK has to offer. Starting early and planning smartly can open doors to better jobs after graduation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can international students work part-time in the UK?
Yes, international students on a Student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations, provided their visa allows it.

2. What are the highest-paying part-time jobs for undergraduates?
Tutoring, research assistant roles, and skilled admin jobs tend to pay more, especially in cities like London or Manchester.

3. Is it hard to get a part-time job in the UK as a student?
Not necessarily. There are plenty of opportunities, especially in retail and hospitality, but it can take persistence and a tailored CV to stand out.

4. How can I find jobs near my university?
Use university job boards, local Facebook groups, or job sites like Indeed and StudentJob. You can also walk into shops or cafés with your CV.

5. Can I work two part-time jobs at once?
Yes, as long as your total hours do not exceed your visa limit (usually 20 hours/week during term time) and it doesn't interfere with your studies.

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