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Part-time work

That student loan will only go so far, so many students work part-time to fund their studies and help them with their living costs.

Where and when

First, you'll need to know when you can work. It's important that you prioritise your course work - that's why you're here after all - so we'd only recommend working up to 20 hours a week maximum.

This should allow enough time for your university-related responsibilities so your part-time work doesn't have a negative impact on your studies. There are all kinds of part-time work available, especially with Bournemouth being a seaside town, including:

While you won't necessarily be able to 'pick and choose' your hours, jobs like those listed above tend to be quite flexible and employers recognise that students have other responsibilities too.

Weekend jobs in particular are in high demand, so it pays to be prepared - start applying for jobs during the summer, then chase them up once you get here. The Placement & Careers Service also advise on part-time job options.

Earnings

How much you earn will depend on where and how much you work. The average weekly wage for a part-time working student is £90 but some take home more than £120 a week.

As far as paying tax goes, this depends on how much you earn and not on the number of hours you work. Everyone receives a certain amount of income in each tax year on which no tax has to be paid. This is called the Personal Allowance (£7,475 in 2010/11).

If your earnings from your part-time job are below this, then you do not have to pay tax on them. If your earnings are more than this, you will pay tax on the difference. For more information see HM Revenue & Customs - Students.

Get some experience

Working part-time will not only enable you to earn some extra money, but it will also act as an important addition to your CV - no matter what you end up doing as a job after you graduate.

It will provide you with valuable experience that will look good on any further job applications and you will gain skills that can be applied to any occupation. In addition to job-specific skills, you're likely to learn about:

Of course, you could go that extra mile and get a part-time job in an area you're interested in making a career in. These are harder to come by, but if you don't ask you don't get, and potential employers will be impressed if you approach them before they approach you. Make some enquiries in the local area once you arrive - you never know where it might lead.

International students

International students, with the appropriate visa, may work a maximum of 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during vacations. It is easy to find part-time work in Bournemouth and help and advice is available at BU to assist you.

It is important to note that, if you require a visa to enter the UK, you must show evidence of sufficient funding to cover your tuition fees and living costs.

Even though you will normally be allowed to work part-time in the UK, you will not be granted an entry visa if it appears that you will be relying on this income to help fund your studies.