The University of Sheffield
Welcome to Sheffield

Employment

1. All students should read this section.

It is possible for most international students to take a part-time job, but it cannot be guaranteed. Do not start a course in Sheffield, hoping to be able to earn money for maintenance while in Britain. You should also be aware that finding a part time job/work experience in your chosen field cannot be guaranteed. Work experience is not ordinarily a part of the academic programme. If you wish to discuss the possibility of work experience, you will need to speak to staff in the appropriate academic department.

2. Permission to work

  1. Students with student visas issued for 6 months or more (i.e. not those on short courses nor those with student visitor visas) are allowed to work part-time while studying:
  1. up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. (NB The University recommends no more than 15 hours per week.)
  2. full-time in vacations. (NB this means University vacations, only for registered students.)
  3. Masters students are not permitted to work full time during their dissertation period/ summer vacation.
  4. PhD students must ask their supervisor for leave/vacation.
  1. Students on courses below degree level (English Language, Foundation programmes) can only work 10 hours per week in term time.
  2. For employment of the spouse of a married student, see “Information for Couples and Families”.
  3. You are NOT ALLOWED to take leave from your studies in order to work. (The only exemption is if you are on a sandwich course. The University has only one such course at present although more are planned for this year.)

Remember, penalties for working illegally are severe and include possible imprisonment and deportation. Employers are also liable to prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000. You risk having to leave Britain before graduating and being unable to return.