Advice on working as a student

This page gives advice for working students and provides links for further information.

National Minimum Wage

This is a legal right which covers almost all people working within the UK.

From October 2011, National Minimum Wage rates will increase from:

• £5.93 to £6.08 an hour for workers aged 21 and over
• £4.92 to £4.98 an hour for workers aged 18 to 20

Part-time Workers' Regulations

These regulations exist to ensure that part-time employees are entitled to the same rate of pay, leave entitlements and access to training as those in full-time employment.

Working Hours

We advise that students not work in excess of 15 hours per week during term-time as too many hours of work may interfere with study time. Everyone is entitled to one whole day off per week. Some students may have additional visa restrictions.

Breaks

Anyone who works for more than six hours at a stretch is entitled to a 20 minute break (to be taken during the six hours). Employers must ensure that workers can take their rest, but are not required to make sure they do take their rest.

Health & Safety

You have a duty to work safely by co-operating with your employer and following safety guidelines. You have a right to refuse to do something dangerous if you feel you are in ‘imminent and serious danger’. Your employer should provide you with adequate Health and Safety training and provide an accident book to record all work-related injuries.

UKCISA

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) is the UK’s national advisory body serving the interests of international students and those who work with them.

National Insurance

• every person working in the UK must pay NI

• your NI number is used as a reference in your dealings with certain government departments throughout your working life in the UK.

• Your employer uses your NI number for deductions of tax and NI contributions.

Applying for a NI Number

UK citizens who have always lived in the UK should receive a NI number when they are 16. If you have lost your number, contact your local Job Centre. Old payslips, a P45 or a P60 will also show your NI number.

International students MUST apply for a NI number once they are actively looking for work. Applications may take several weeks to process.


To apply:

• Phone the National Insurance Enquiry Centre on 0845 6000 643 (local call rates)
• State you are an international student and explain how long you will be in the UK.
• The National Insurance Centre will make an appointment for you to attend an interview at a Job Centre office. You will need to bring some of the following documents:- passport, ID card, driving licence, confirmation of your address, police registration document, matriculation card, proof of offer of work, or documentary evidence that you are actively seeking work, such as rejection letters, copies of application forms etc.
  

Eligibility to work in the UK

When you first apply for a job your employer may ask for your NI number. While you wait for your NI application to be processed you may start your employment and the employer can process your wage payments. If you have any problems with employers refusing to employ you without an NI number please refer them to the Jobshop.

Frequently Asked Questions about National Insurance

Q. When do I start paying NI?

You can earn up to £110 a week (2010-11) before you pay any National Insurance contributions. This is known as the 'primary threshold'.

However, as long as you earn more than £97 a week (2010-11) you can still build up your entitlement to a State Pension and certain other benefits. This is known as the 'lower earnings limit'.

Q. I have applied for a NI Number, but have been told it will take 3 -12 weeks before it is issued.

The Department for Work and Pensions suggests your employer(s) uses a code compatible with their payroll system to process your pay.

Income Tax

 Students are NOT exempt from paying tax.

Every person working in the UK is taxed, but you are only taxed once your earnings reach a certain level.

You should receive a tax form when completing any paid employment. If they do not give you one then ASK - it is your legal right.

The tax year runs from April 6th to April 5th of the following year.

Paid Too Much Tax?

If you believe you have paid too much tax you should contact the Inland Revenue (Tax Office) for advice about claiming the tax back. The tax may be repaid to you via the Tax Office or through your employer.

Tax Enquiry Centre: 0845 302 1484 (local call rates)
This is a national centre that can provide you with your local tax district telephone number by using the first three numbers from your PAYE reference code (found on your payslips)

For more information

Direct Gov

Tax calculator

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