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Working in the UK: Part-Time Jobs, the Graduate Route (PSW) and Dependant Rules

How many hours Bangladeshi students can work while studying, how the Graduate Route lets you stay after your degree, and who can bring family.

Adept International

, 2 min read

Graduates throwing their caps in the air

Work rights are a big reason Bangladeshi students choose the UK. Here's what the rules allow during and after your studies. The rules are under review, so check GOV.UK for the latest position before you make plans.

Working while you study

  • Students on degree-level courses at a university can usually work up to 20 hours a week in term time, and full-time during official vacations.
  • Students below degree level usually have a lower limit, often 10 hours a week.
  • Your exact limit is shown on your eVisa and your CAS. Follow it strictly - breaking your work conditions can cancel your visa.
  • You can't be self-employed, work as a freelancer, or fill a permanent full-time role while you study.

Common student jobs include retail, hospitality, warehouse work and on-campus roles. Part-time wages help with living costs, but you can't count future earnings towards the money you show for your visa.

The Graduate Route (post-study work visa)

After you successfully complete a UK bachelor's or master's degree, the Graduate Route lets you stay and work, or look for work, without a job offer or a sponsor. At the time of writing it lasts two years (three years for PhD graduates), and you apply from inside the UK before your Student visa expires. The UK government has announced plans to shorten it, so check the current length on GOV.UK.

Many graduates use this time to gain UK work experience and then move on to a Skilled Worker visa with an employer.

Bringing family (dependants)

Since January 2024, most international students can no longer bring dependants. You can usually only bring a partner or children if you are on a postgraduate research course, such as a PhD, or a government-sponsored course lasting more than six months. Check the current rules on GOV.UK.

Plan your career from day one

  • Use your university's careers service early.
  • Look for placements or internships within your course.
  • Build UK work experience part-time, within your visa limits.

Our counsellors can help you choose courses with strong graduate outcomes. Book a free consultation.

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