Visa hours
Degree-level students on a Student visa can usually work up to 20 hours a week in term time, 10 below degree level, Monday to Sunday, across all jobs. Check your visa for your exact limit and use the student visa hours tracker.
Pay
The full National Living Wage applies from age 21, with lower minimums at 18 to 20 and under 18.
Tax
If you earn less than £12,570 a year you shouldn't pay income tax. If you're taxed on an emergency code, you can claim a refund from HMRC.
Holiday
Part-time and casual students still build up paid holiday. On irregular hours it's 12.07% of the hours you work.
A worked example
A 19-year-old student works 15 hours a week in term time at the 18 to 20 rate of £10.85: £162.75 a week. Over a 30-week academic year that's £4,883, and with full-time summer work at the same rate (12 weeks × 37.5 hours) another £4,883, so £9,765 in total. That's under the £12,570 personal allowance, so no income tax should be due across the year.
Emergency tax on your first job
Without a P45, a new employer may put you on an emergency code. Fill in the starter checklist your employer gives you, choosing the statement that fits (for example, that this is your first job since 6 April). If too much tax is taken, it usually comes back through later payslips, or you can claim it from HMRC.
Student loan repayments
Student loan repayments are taken through your payslip only once you've left your course and earn over the threshold for your plan. You shouldn't see them on a part-time job while you're still studying.
Keep your own record
Shiftaan works out your hours and expected pay for every shift, even ones that cross midnight. Open the app.
Common questions
Can I work full-time in the holidays on a Student visa?
Usually yes, during your university's official vacations. Check the dates with your university.
Do students pay National Insurance?
Yes, if you earn more than the weekly threshold in a job (about £242 a week in 2026/27). Most part-time student jobs are below it.