For international students, understanding the average salary in UK is a key part of planning their study and work journey. On average, international students can earn between £1,200 to £2,500 per month through part-time jobs or internships while studying, depending on factors such as their field of study, location, and the nature of their employment. This salary helps many students manage living expenses, tuition fees, and gain valuable work experience while pursuing their education.
Types of jobs available for international students
Here are the types of jobs available for international students in the UK:
Part-time jobs: International students typically find part-time work in sectors like retail, hospitality, customer service, or administration. These roles are readily available and offer flexible hours, which are ideal for students balancing studies. Common positions include working as a cashier, waiter, barista, or store assistant.
Internships and placements: For students looking to gain experience in their field of study, internships and work placements are great opportunities. These can be full-time during university holidays or part-time during the semester, depending on the course structure. Some internships are paid, while others offer valuable industry exposure and networking opportunities.
Graduate jobs: Once students complete their studies, they can apply for full-time graduate roles. With the UK’s post-study work visa, also known as the Graduate Route, international students can stay in the UK for two years (three years for Ph.D. graduates) to work or look for employment.
Part-time jobs – Average salary in UK per hour
The most common part-time jobs for students tend to be in retail and hospitality. Here’s is the average salary in UK per hour:
Retail and customer service roles: £8-£10 (₹880 - ₹1,100) per hour.
Hospitality (waiters, baristas, bartenders): £9-£12 (₹990 - ₹1,320) per hour, including tips.
Administrative roles: £10-£13 (₹1,100 - ₹1,430) per hour.
If a student works 20 hours a week (the maximum allowed during term time), they can earn between £640 and £1,040 (₹70,431 to ₹1,14,438) per month before taxes, depending on the job and location.
Internships and placements average salary in UK per month
Internships are a great way for international students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. Paid internships in the UK can offer a reasonable income while providing career-building opportunities. Here are the average salaries in UK per month:
Technology and IT internships: £1,200-£1,800 (₹1,31,977- ₹1,97,966) per month.
Finance internships: £1,500-£2,500 (₹1,64,971- ₹2,74,962) per month.
Marketing and creative industries internships: £800-£1,500 (₹87,988- ₹1,64,973) per month.
While some internships are unpaid, students should consider the long-term benefits of gaining industry experience, making connections, and enhancing their CV for future employment.
Graduate job salaries in UK per year after completion of studies
Once international students complete their degree, they can apply for full-time graduate roles. Salaries vary by industry, and entry-level positions in the UK tend to offer competitive packages.
Engineering and IT graduates: £25,000-£35,000 (₹27,49,512- ₹38,49,220) per year.
Finance and banking graduates: £30,000-£40,000 (₹32,99,332- ₹43,98,088) per year.
Healthcare graduates (e.g., nurses, medical technicians): £24,000-£30,000 (₹26,38,852- ₹32,98,566) per year.
Graduate salaries in the UK can significantly increase depending on the industry, skills, and experience. London-based jobs often offer higher salaries but come with a higher cost of living.
Factors affecting salaries in UK
Several factors influence how much a student or graduate can earn while in the UK:
Location: Salaries are generally higher in London and other major cities like Manchester or Birmingham compared to smaller towns.
Industry: Jobs in finance, tech, and engineering tend to pay more than hospitality or administrative roles.
Skills and experience: Students with prior work experience, especially in their field of study, can command higher wages.
Legal work regulations for international students in UK
International students in the UK on a Tier 4 or Student Visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. It’s essential to understand the legal restrictions on work hours to avoid visa violations. Students should also ensure they receive proper employment contracts and understand their tax obligations.
Maximising earnings as an international student in UK
To make the most of part-time work in the UK, international students can:
Look for jobs with higher hourly pay: Retail and customer service roles typically pay less than administrative or technical roles.
Use university career services: Many universities have job portals and offer guidance on securing part-time roles and internships.
Network effectively: Building connections with classmates, professors, and industry professionals can lead to higher-paying opportunities.
How IELTS can help you get a job in UK?
The IELTS test is an important step for securing a job in the UK, especially in sectors requiring high proficiency in English, such as healthcare, engineering, and finance. Many UK employers, including those in government and multinational corporations, recognise IELTS as proof of English language skills.
Achieving a high band score in IELTS can improve your chances of obtaining a work visa and demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in a professional environment. Whether you're applying for skilled jobs or leadership roles, IELTS can help get endless career opportunities in the UK.
As an international student, understanding salary expectations and balancing work with studies is key to making the most of your time in the UK. Remember, IELTS can help get a job when you are in the UK.
So, if you are planning to take an IELTS test and have any questions, then you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will clear all your doubts.