Studying abroad in the UK can be an exciting experience. As an international student, you may want to support yourself financially while gaining valuable work experience. One of the best ways to do this is by taking on part-time work. But how much can you earn per hour?
The UK has specific regulations for the minimum wage, and understanding them is key to planning your finances while you study.
So in this article, we’ll break down the UK minimum wage for international students, show you how to calculate your earnings, and more.
Table of Contents
Understanding the UK Minimum Wage for International Students
The UK government strictly regulates minimum wage rates to ensure fair compensation for all workers.
These regulations protect both domestic and international students working in the United Kingdom. Your rights as an international student worker match those of UK citizens.
Work restrictions apply to international students depending on their visa type and study level. Most Tier 4 or student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. You can work full-time during official holiday periods set by your educational institution.
The National Minimum Wage system varies based on your age and employment status. Different rates apply to different age groups, with annual increases every April. Your employer must pay you at least the minimum wage rate for your age group.
Your visa status does not affect your right to receive the National Minimum Wage. Employers cannot pay you less than the legal minimum wage because you’re an international student.
The law protects you from wage discrimination based on your nationality or visa status.
Current UK Minimum Wage Rates for International Students
The National Living Wage applies to workers aged 21 and over starting April 2024. You’ll receive £11.44 per hour if you’re 21 or older working any job. This rate represents a significant increase from previous years.
Workers aged 18-20 receive £8.60 per hour as their minimum wage rate. Your hourly rate will increase automatically when you turn 21 years old. Employers must adjust your pay rate from your 21st birthday.
Under-18s earn a minimum of £6.40 per hour for their work. This rate applies to international students aged 16-17 who are allowed to work. Few student visas permit work for under-18s, so check your visa conditions carefully.
Apprentices have a special minimum wage rate of £6.40 per hour. This rate applies only during your first year or if you’re under 19. After your first year, you’ll receive the minimum wage rate for your age group.
These rates apply across all types of work arrangements in the UK. Whether you work part-time, casual hours, or zero-hour contracts, these minimums still apply. Your employer cannot pay you less, even during training periods.
Some London employers offer a voluntary London Living Wage of £13.15 per hour. This higher rate helps workers meet the capital’s higher living costs. Many universities and larger companies in London choose to pay this rate.
How to Calculate Your Hourly Wage in the UK
Start by identifying which minimum wage rate applies to your age group. Write down your gross pay and total working hours from your payslip. Divide your gross pay by your total working hours to find your hourly rate.
Your employer must include certain activities in your paid working time. Paid activities include required training sessions, work-related travel between sites, and security checks. These hours count toward your total work hours for wage calculations.
Break times usually don’t count as paid working time in the UK. Most employers provide 20-minute breaks for shifts longer than six hours. Your lunch break typically isn’t included in paid working hours.
Keep detailed records of your working hours and payments received. Note the start times, end times, and break durations for each shift you work. This information helps you verify that you’re receiving the correct minimum wage.
Use the UK government’s minimum wage calculator to check your payments. This free online tool helps confirm whether you’re receiving the correct wage. Enter your age, working hours, and payment details to verify your wage compliance.
Your payslip should clearly show your hourly rate and total hours worked. Check these details against your own records each time you get paid. Report any discrepancies to your employer or seek advice from the Citizens Advice Bureau.
Tips for Finding Part-Time Jobs in the UK as an International Student
University career services offer excellent resources for finding suitable part-time work. They maintain relationships with local employers who regularly hire international students. Schedule an appointment with your university’s career advisor for personalized job search guidance.
Online job boards specifically target student employment opportunities in the UK. Websites like Student Job, Indeed, and your university’s job portal list suitable positions. Create job alerts to receive notifications about new opportunities matching your criteria.
Retail positions often provide flexible hours that work well with study schedules. Many shops, supermarkets, and department stores actively recruit student workers. These roles typically offer evening and weekend shifts that fit around your classes.
Campus jobs offer convenient locations and an understanding of student commitments. Look for positions in university libraries, cafeterias, or administrative offices. These employers usually work well with academic schedules and exam periods.
Hospitality jobs in restaurants, cafes, and bars welcome international student workers. These positions often offer evening and weekend work with tips on top of wages. Many hospitality employers provide free meals during shifts as an additional benefit.
Customer service roles provide valuable experience while improving your English skills. Call centres and customer support positions often hire international students. These jobs frequently offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your studies.
Consider temporary work during peak seasons through employment agencies. Christmas retail work and summer tourism jobs offer higher wages. These positions help you earn more during your holiday periods.
Join student groups and societies to network and learn about job opportunities. Other international students can share their experiences finding work. Your university’s international student society often shares job leads among members.
Create a UK-style CV and cover letter following local formatting expectations. Your university’s career service can review these documents for you. Include any previous work experience and relevant skills for UK employers.
Understanding UK Taxation and National Insurance for International Students
Your tax-free personal allowance lets you earn up to £12,570 annually without paying income tax—most international students working part-time stay within this tax-free threshold. Keep track of your total earnings to understand your tax obligations.
National Insurance contributions start when you earn more than £242 weekly. You’ll pay 12% on earnings between £242 and £967 per week. Your employer handles these deductions automatically through the PAYE system.
Register for a National Insurance number before starting your first UK job. Book an appointment with Job Centre Plus to apply. This unique identifier helps track your tax and National Insurance contributions.
Your employer needs your National Insurance number for proper tax processing. Provide this number as soon as you receive it from the authorities. You can start work before getting your number using a temporary tax code.
Keep all your payslips and P60 forms for tax reference purposes. These documents will help you complete your tax returns if necessary. Store these records safely for at least two years after the tax year ends.
Some international students qualify for tax refunds when leaving the UK. File form P85 with HMRC when you finish your studies and leave. You may receive a refund for unused portions of your tax-free allowance.
Your student visa status doesn’t affect your tax obligations in the UK. You’ll pay the same tax rates as domestic students and workers. Report any changes in your employment or visa status to HMRC promptly.
UK Minimum Wage for International Students FAQs
Can I work full-time during my studies in the UK?
No, most international students can only work 20 hours per week during term time. However, you can work full-time during holidays or breaks.
Do I need to pay taxes as an international student?
You only need to pay taxes if your earnings exceed the UK’s personal allowance. If your income is lower, you won’t need to pay taxes.
How can I find part-time jobs as an international student?
Check your university’s career services, use online job portals, and consider flexible work in hospitality, retail, or freelancing.
Conclusion
Understanding UK minimum wage regulations will help you maximize your earning potential while studying.
Your right to fair wages remains protected regardless of your international student status. Keep detailed records of your work hours and payments to ensure proper compensation.