'As an international student in the UK you may be eligible to work alongside your studies, depending on your immigration status. Getting a job while you study in the UK can improve your language skills and enhance your CV.'
Before taking on a job, you need to check whether are entitled to work and how many hours you can work each week. For more information, visit the UK Border Agency (UKBA) website.
Most UK places of study have a careers service to help connect you to the world of work. They will typically provide a wide range of help and support, including:
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access to job adverts
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help with writing CVs and job applications
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tips on preparing for job interviews
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information about what it’s like to work in the UK.
They will also help you get first-hand experience of the workplace, consider career choices and make professional contacts. Many UK schools, colleges and universities also have partnerships with local employers who want students to work for them.
National Insurance numbers for international students
If you want to work while you study in the UK you will need to apply for a National Insurance number. National Insurance is the UK’s social insurance programme that provides payment to people who are unemployed, incapacitated or retired. Your National Insurance number is your own personal account number that ensures your contributions are properly recorded.
To make an appointment for a National Insurance number interview while you’re in the UK, phone +44 (0)845 600 0643 between 8am and 6pm weekdays. If you are hard of hearing or have speech difficulties call +44 (0)845 600 0644.
At your interview you will need to provide proof of identity (passport, birth certificate or bank statement), your right to work in the UK (passport sticker or identity stamp) and details of your job offer. Your new employer can allow you to start work before your number is issued and should deduct contributions from your pay.
For further information on National Insurance numbers visit Applying for a National Insurance number on the UK Government website, Directgov.
