Why do students work?
Many students work part-time during their course, and work full or
part time during the vacations. Studying in London can be very
expensive, and students often find that their student loan and
grants do not go as far as they had hoped. With the high cost of
rent, travel to and from university, increasing food and utility
bill costs and paying for course related items, you may find that
you have a shortfall in your current income.
Part-time work is a good way of receiving
extra money, but there are other benefits as well. Working during
your studies can give you useful work experience, and is often a
way of making social contacts and sometimes even professional
contacts.
You are far more employable once you graduate
if you have already worked, and you will able to demonstrate
transferable skills you have developed such as communication, team
working and leadership skills. If you are an EEA or international
student, then working part time will also help you develop your
knowledge of the UK job market and may help to improve your English
(if it is not your first language).
How many hours should I
work?
The AGCAS Student Employment Working Group
advise that you do not commit to more than 15 hours a week
part-time work. Evidence shows that working over 15 hours per week
during term time can have a damaging effect on student studies. You
may, of course, wish to extend your hours during vacations or when
you do not have the usual study demands.
If you from outside the EEA and are studying
in the UK on a student visa which gives you permission to work,
then you must not work more than 20 hours per week during term
time. There are also some additional restrictions. For more
information about the rules and conditions for international
students who want to work in the UK, please click here.
Where can I find part time
work?
The university Career Development Centre run a
very successful service. Career Development
Centre advertise a large variety of vacancies on their website
here.
Or you can contact them at 101
New Cavendish Street on tel: 020 7911 5000 ext.
65184.
Career Development Centre also offer
careers guidance and support, including quick query sessions, help
with your CV and covering letter, workshops and events, and an
e-guidance service. For more information visit their website.
Many students who have used Career
Development Centre have found work successfully. You can see a
variety of case studies here.
Do I have to pay tax and national
insurance?
As a student
you are liable to pay Income Tax and National Insurance in the
same way as anyone else. For more information about this, click
here.
For more information about maximizing your
income and finding ways of getting extra money, please click
here.
"The Smart Money initiative at
the University of Westminster is part of a national project aiming
to improve students' financial capability, led by the
the Consumer Financial Education Body (CFEB)"