Working In The UK
Am I allowed to work while I am studying in the UK?
Students on a programme at degree level or above, yes as follows:
- up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, although the University recommends a maximum of 15 hours per week
- full-time in vacations (this means standard undergraduate vacations)
- PhD/MPhil students at the University of Sheffield are entitled to a maximum of 8 weeks vacation per year
- Postgraduate taught students are registered for a 12 months programme. They may work full-time during the Christmas and Easter holidays. However, they are assumed to be working full-time on dissertations and not considered to be on vacation over the summer. They should not be working full-time during this period
- Students on Leave of Absence should seek advice from staff in Student Support and Guidance. international.students@sheffield.ac.uk
- Students with a Tier 4 visa issued after 3 March 2010 studying below degree level, with exception of foundation courses, can work for 10 hours per week during term time and full time during vacation.
But what if my passport stamp/ID Card includes a PROHIBITION on working?
In that case, you are NOT allowed to work (and the consequences if you disobey this prohibition can be very serious).
Who will get a PROHIBITION stamp?
Students on a course of 6 months or less who have not asked for Leave to Remain on Code 2 as they enter the UK. More details can be found in the University of Sheffield publication Information for New International Students or on the UKCISA Web pages
UKCISA:Working in the UK during your studies
If I can work, are there any further conditions on the type of employment?
Yes - as follows:
- you must not engage in business, self-employment or the provision of services as a professional sports person or entertainer.
- you must not pursue a career by filling a full-time vacancy.