International StudentsGaining Work Experience in the UK

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Course-related work experience in the UK can help you in your later career.

How many hours can I work whilst in the UK?

International students on a Tier 4 visa studying at degree level or above are usually allowed to work no more than 20 hours a week during term-time, and full-time during vacations. Before accepting work you should always check what is written about work on your visa and the accompanying letter. You should also check the current guidance from UK Visas and Immigration. You will find this at:

www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa Select the ‘Full Guidance’ link and open the policy guidance document (there is a section on working in the UK).

National Insurance Number:

This is a unique personal number which is used to record your National Insurance (NI) contributions. You must obtain one in order to work in the UK. You can apply for an NI number by calling the National Insurance number application line on 0345 600 0643. You may be required to attend an interview and show documents such as your passport/birth certificate. Full details are available online from:

www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number

Working in the UK

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Careers and Employability Service

The Careers and Employability Service can help you with:

• Finding placements, internships and part-time work opportunities• Writing effective CVs and applications• Interview preparation and skills

They run a drop-in service for quick queries or longer sessions which can be booked in advance. If you are unable to see them in person, they have an online service (e-guidance). To find out more, call into their office or visit them online - see back page for details.

The University’s International Office also offer support to international students regarding visas and work. They are based at the Luton campus. See their section on the website for more information, including how to contact them: www.beds.ac.uk/international

Further information:

The UK Council for International Student Affairs is the UK’s national advisory body for international students and those who work with them: www.ukcisa.org.uk

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Luton Campus (Located on the ground floor of the Campus Centre):Careers and Employability ServiceUniversity of BedfordshireUniversity SquareLuton, Bedfordshire LU1 3JUTel: +44 (0)1582 489293

Bedford Campus (Located by the SID Desk, 1st Floor, The Gateway):Careers and Employability ServiceUniversity of BedfordshirePolhill AvenueBedford, MK41 9EATel: +44 (0)1234 793072

Students can also use e-guidance: www.beds.ac.uk/studentlife/careers/advice

For further information and opening times: www.beds.ac.uk/studentlife/careers

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