Studying in the UK is an exciting opportunity, but holding a Student visa comes with strict legal conditions. Many students unintentionally breach their visa simply because they misunderstand the rules around work, study, or switching routes.
This guide explains the key restrictions attached to a UK Student visa and what you must do to remain compliant throughout your stay.
Who can apply under the student route?
The Student visa is available to individuals aged 16 or over who wish to study at an approved UK education provider. Your institution must be a licensed student sponsor and must issue a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Children aged between 4 and 17 who intend to study at an independent school must apply under the Child Student route instead.
Once granted, your visa conditions will clearly state what you are permitted – and not permitted – to do in the UK.
Financial restrictions: No access to public funds
One of the most important conditions attached to a Student visa is the prohibition on accessing public funds. This means you cannot claim most state benefits, including Universal Credit, housing support, or other welfare-related payments.
The Immigration Rules define public funds in detail, and the restriction applies strictly. As an international student, you are expected to support yourself through personal funds, family assistance, scholarships, or permitted employment.
Claiming public funds when prohibited can lead to visa cancellation and future immigration issues.
Working while studying: What is allowed?
Your right to work depends on your course level and your sponsor’s status.
If you are studying a full-time course at degree level or above with a higher education provider that has a track record of compliance, you may work:
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Up to 20 hours per week during term-time
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Full-time during official vacation periods
If you are studying below degree level in similar circumstances, you are usually limited to:
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10 hours per week during term-time
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Full-time during vacations
Students enrolled in part-time postgraduate courses are generally not permitted to work.
It is your responsibility – not your employer’s – to ensure you do not exceed your permitted hours.
Types of work that are strictly prohibited
Certain activities are completely banned for Student visa holders.
You cannot:
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Work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach
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Be self-employed or actively run a business
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Work as an entertainer
Engaging in business activity includes setting up a sole trader operation, forming a partnership, or trading commercially. Even if the business is small or online, it may breach your visa conditions.
There is a limited exception for those who have applied under the Innovator Founder visa route and are awaiting a decision, but this is highly specific and requires careful legal assessment.
If you are unsure whether your activity counts as self-employment, seek advice before proceeding.
Work placements, volunteering, and student union roles
Some activities are permitted under defined conditions.
Work placements are allowed if they are an assessed and integral part of your course. Your sponsor must confirm that the placement forms part of your academic programme.
Voluntary work is permitted only if you have permission to work, and your combined paid and unpaid hours must not exceed your weekly limit during term-time.
You may also take up a Student Union Sabbatical Officer role or certain elected student positions for up to two years if your CAS was assigned for that purpose.
Can you start a full-time permanent job?
Student visa holders are normally prohibited from filling a full-time permanent vacancy. However, a limited exception applies if:
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You are studying a full-time degree-level course
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You apply to switch to the Skilled Worker or Graduate route before your Student visa expires
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Your application is valid and under consideration
In some Skilled Worker cases, you may begin employment up to three months before completing your course. Graduate route applicants may begin full-time work once their course is successfully completed.
These transitional rules are technical and timing is critical.
Restrictions on changing institutions
Your Student visa ties you to the sponsor that issued your CAS. You must not start studying at another institution unless you have:
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Submitted a new valid Student visa application supported by a fresh CAS, and
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Received approval (or are lawfully awaiting a decision in permitted circumstances)
Studying at an unauthorised institution can invalidate your visa status.
Starting a different course with the same sponsor
You may switch to a new course with your existing sponsor only if specific requirements are met.
The new course must generally:
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Be at degree level or above
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Not be at a lower qualification level (unless part of an integrated programme)
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Be completed within your current visa period
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Be academically related or support your genuine career progression
Your sponsor must confirm these points formally.
Failing to meet these conditions may require you to submit a new visa application.
Supplementary study, study abroad, and atas
Student visa holders are allowed to undertake supplementary study in addition to their main course.
You may also participate in an overseas study abroad programme if it is an assessed and integral part of your course.
Certain sensitive subjects – particularly in science, engineering and technology – require clearance under the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS). If your course falls under ATAS requirements, you must obtain a certificate before beginning your studies.
Additionally, Student visa holders cannot study at a state school or academy, unless a specific exemption applies.
Why compliance matters
UK Student visa conditions are strictly enforced. Even minor breaches – such as working extra hours during term-time or engaging in freelance activity – can affect future visa applications, including Skilled Worker or settlement routes.
Understanding your conditions is not optional. It is essential for protecting your long-term immigration future.
How Lawsentis can support you
Navigating Student visa rules requires more than just reading guidance. The Immigration Rules are detailed, technical and constantly evolving.
LawSentis is a UK-based immigration firm regulated at IAA Level 3, providing premium UK immigration and relocation services. We assist with:
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Student visa applications and extensions
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Switching to Skilled Worker or Graduate routes
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Advice on working rights and compliance
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ATAS-related matters
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Challenging refusals and Administrative Reviews
If you are unsure about your visa conditions, planning to change courses, or considering switching routes, our team can provide clear, strategic advice tailored to your situation.
Contact LawSentis to ensure your UK immigration journey remains secure, compliant and future-focused.