You can gain valuable experience and learn more about UK culture by working part time or on a voluntary basis while you study at Sussex.
Rules for part-time work
If you are a full-time student from outside the European Union, you are normally allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. However, we recommend you always put your studies first and avoid working more than 15 hours per week during term time.
Finding part-time work
Part-time work may help pay for travel, entertainment or savings, but there is no guarantee you will find work, and you should not rely on this money for fees and basic living expenses. Our Careers and Employability Centre (CEC) can help you search for part-time work while studying at Sussex. CEC provide listings of temporary and part-time vacancies in their information centre and online.
With a thriving tourist industry, Brighton is a good place to look for part-time work. Jobs are often in shops, hotels, bars, restaurants, cleaning companies, offices and call centres - as well as on campus. If you want to find out more, CEC run a drop-in session for international students who have questions about working in the UK while studying.
Jobhunting for International Students.
Minimum wage
The minimum wage is set by the government each year and employers are legally required to pay you this rate, regardless of the type of work you do. The rate is reviewed every year and any increases take place in October.
Voluntary work
Volunteering is an enjoyable way of making a difference in the local community, developing key skills for your future career and learning about the UK. The Students' Union's Project V scheme provides supported volunteering opportunities that benefit both students and the wider local community. You can find out more and search for placements online.