Most international students look for part-time work while studying abroad. The motivations can be anything from getting financial assistance, learning new things (gathering experience), or just killing time. Working part-time while studying in the UK can help students gain new skills and reduce their school loans.
Types of Part-Time Jobs in the UK
There are two alternatives for international students searching for part-time work in the UK. There are jobs available both on and off campus. Additional details regarding these are given below:
On-Campus Part-time Jobs in the UK
One kind of part-time work that international students can find in the UK is on-campus employment. As the name suggests, on-campus jobs are available within the university. Since students may work in several departments within their field, these are perfect for them. Jobs on campus are available at the cafeterias, computer labs, library, gymnasium, and reception areas. Many students are unable to find jobs on campus due to its limited availability.
How to go about it
On their university’s website, students can frequently find advertisements for the best part-time jobs. So, begin your search there. Academic departments occasionally search for student workers to assist with research, teaching, and administrative duties. Search the official university website for any available openings. Asking other faculty members whether they are aware of any university positions open to international students is another thing to think about.
Off-Campus Part-time jobs
Another alternative is off-campus employment. Due to the scarcity of on-campus jobs and students’ preference, there are a number of off-campus jobs international students can do; below are our suggestions:
•Baby sitter
You might love working as a babysitter if you have previous experience caring for children and enjoy being around them.
Tip: Search online via trusted websites to connect with families looking for babysitters, use Facebook groups to look for local babysitting communities, or make personal connections to find them. Babysitting can be a rewarding job and can be combined with your studies perfectly.
•Bartender, Barista, or Server
These three roles are all part of the same industry, which is catering. You can create a more flexible schedule and integrate work with other hobbies if you work in this industry. But bear in mind that working in the catering industry might be taxing for people who don’t enjoy socializing or being in busy places all the time. If not, working in this field might be an exciting and youthful side gig while you’re a student.
•Deliverer
Deliverers are in charge of delivering parcels, meals, and other items to the correct places. Certain deliveries can be completed with a bicycle or a scooter, but other deliveries could need a driver’s license and occasionally even a car. Look into local food delivery businesses or parcel delivery services to determine if this may be a good part-time opportunity for you.
•Mentor
Why not teach others what you know well in order to supplement your income if you are excellent at it? Tutors assist students of different academic levels in understanding particular subjects, getting ready for tests, and finding the answers to their queries. This side gig might be the best option if you are passionate about teaching.
•Retail
Students frequently search for part-time work in the retail industry. Retail jobs include cashiers at grocery stores, sales associates in clothes stores, booksellers, and many more roles in both large and small retail businesses. Finding stores that sell the things you would like to work with is a good place to start your search for the ideal match job.
Tips to Find Suitable Part-time Employment
Early preparation pays you big time! Once you’re in the UK, attempt to find out what kind of part-time work is available in your location. It is necessary to conduct extensive research on which industries offer the most student employment, as well as wage rates, working conditions, job openings, employer details, etc. before applying.
Do not send a generic resume, as they are most likely to be rejected. If you want to stand out, you must customize your resume to suit job requirements and employer type.
Seeking expert guidance from academic career counselors to customize your resume and cover letter is a smart move.
Excellent networking opportunities can be found in university communities, clubs, and society. In addition to expanding your social circle, networking makes it easier for you to stay up to date on the newest possibilities and advances.
Use social media to your advantage to increase your chances of finding a part-time job that suits you. Your chances of landing a job can be improved by actively marketing your abilities on business-oriented social networking sites like Linked In, participating in local Facebook groups, etc.
Before you apply for part-time jobs as an international student
There are a few things you should think about as an international student looking for a side gig before accepting a job offer. The following three should be your top priorities when looking for a job:
Legal Prerequisites
In the UK, all foreign students are permitted to work both full- and part-time jobs. Depending on their type of visa (usually a Tier-4 visa), students from non-EU countries are allowed to work a part-time job an average of 10 hours per week during the semester and 20 hours per week during breaks or holidays. The most hours you can work in a school year are often indicated on your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) sticker or visa.
Employment Agreement
It is important to set up your work conditions properly when you land a job. Decide how many hours you will work each week with your employer, and try to fit your work schedule around your studies. Additionally, keep in mind to conduct an advanced study on the nation’s minimum wage laws and/or the typical area rates for the positions you are looking for. It will make sure your pay isn’t less than the minimum wage allowed by law. It will also give you the courage to bargain for the pay you deserve and help you set realistic expectations.
In conclusion, In the face of rejection, do not give up. Refusing to allow your failures define you is the only secret to success. Remain persistent until you find a job that meets your needs and vice versa. Have fun while looking for an appointment!
We are rooting for you.
