Tier 4 student visa holders, who have a visa that is valid for six months or longer, are permitted to take part-time and vacation employment provided that it does not interfere with their studies at the University. Undergraduate and Postgraduate students are currently entitled to work for up to 20 hours a week during term time, and up to 40 hours a week during vacations, but the maximum number recommended during term time is 15. International Foundation Programme and Pre-sessional students are currently entitled to work for up to 10 hours a week during term time, and up to 40 hours a week during vacations, but the maximum number recommended during term time is 15. You can download our Employment - Working during your studies leaflet for further details.
It is possible to find part-time work in a variety of places in Bristol, but most UK students, for example, tend to work in cafes, bars, restaurants and shops (there are plenty of these in central Bristol). It is very unlikely that you would be able to find a part-time job that relates to your programme of study, and you are quite likely to earn just the legal minimum wage. Part-time work is unlikely to cover your living costs and you cannot support your student visa application by stating that you will work once you arrive in the UK.
International Students who are working in the UK must pay National Insurance contributions in the same way as a UK citizen. If you have an offer of employment or wish to apply for a National Insurance Number you should ring 0845 600 0643. You will be required to provide some information and a decision will then be made regarding an appointment for a National Insurance Number Interview.
You may need to pay some National Insurance contribution and/or income tax depending on how much you earn during the year.
Please click here for information on working after you finish your studies.
The Careers Service helps students to find part-time, casual and temporary work in the Bristol area. There are a range of vacancies to fit both your timetable and free time. Vacancies can also be viewed on the Careers Service website.
Careers Service
5 Tyndall Avenue
Bristol BS8 1UD
Tel: +44 (0)117 928 8221
Email: careers-service@bristol.ac.uk.
Please see the Autumn events programme from the Careers Service below:
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS!
The Careers Service will be offering several workshops aimed at international students this Autumn. Popular titles include: Plan your next steps, job applications, interview skills, finding work in the UK and global careers day.
BRISTOL PLuS AWARDS - Stand out from the crowd! The Bristol PLuS Awards recognise and reward University of Bristol students who have gained significant professional and life skills through extra-curricular experiences.
CAREERS fairs 2012/13 - Every year our careers fairs get bigger and better. Find out when the fairs are happening, which employers will be coming and how to prepare for them.
EMPLOYER events - Several employer presentations will be taking place in the next 2 weeks, to find out which employers will be on campus follow this link.
http://www.bris.ac.uk/careers/goto/employerevent.asp