Studying overseas is an amazing experience, but let’s face it, the cost is high. It might feel like a tightrope walk for overseas students studying in the UK to balance their financial obligations and academic obligations.
Arriving in the UK may initially seem like a dream. However, reality sets in when the tuition costs start to pile up, rent starts to deplete your finances, and the price of needs begins to mount. You’ll probably need to work part-time to make ends meet, just like a lot of other people. The actual difficulty? juggling your sanity, your schoolwork, and your shifts simultaneously.
The good news? It’s difficult, but completely achievable.
I have experienced it. More times than I can remember, I’ve crammed during lunch breaks, dragged myself into lectures after long hours, and worried about deadlines. However, I succeeded, and you can too.
The conventional advice to “just manage your time better” is not applicable here. This is a straightforward, useful manual to help you live a healthy life.
1. Recognize and respect your legal boundaries.
First and foremost, don’t alter the conditions of your visa. You can work up to 20 hours a week during the academic year if you have a Tier 4 (Student Route) visa. You run the danger of losing your right to remain in the UK if you exceed that threshold.
You can work full-time during university breaks, but make sure to check your academic calendar to make sure you don’t make any mistakes. Yes, your work hours also include unpaid internships and voluntary work.
You can set reasonable expectations for your work and school obligations by being aware of these guidelines early on.
2. Select occupations that complement your schedule rather than conflict with it.
Not every part-time position is made equal. While some may easily fit into your classes, others will leave you exhausted. Seek positions such as: Jobs on campus (such as IT support, student ambassador, and library assistant) Retail jobs, particularly those with flexible schedules Cafes, eateries, or delivery services Tutoring in person or online Freelance work (such as design, translation, and writing) For me, online tutoring was the best option because it offered flexible scheduling, good income, and no commute.
3. Use Your Timetable as a Survival Guide
“Just winging it” results in burnout. Set aside time each week for lectures, study sessions, shifts, and assignment due dates. Whatever keeps you organized, use it: a planner, Google Calendar, or even a simple notebook. Saying no when necessary is made easier when you visualize your obligations. Additionally, remember to factor in buffer time for unforeseen shifts, late buses, and mental breaks.
4. Use Your Study Time Wisely
You will need to make time for studying; it won’t just “fall into your lap.” This is what was helpful to me: Pomodoro technique: five-minute breaks interspersed with 25 minutes of concentrated study Active recall: Take a test instead of going over your notes again. Spaced repetition: Learn across several days rather than just a few hours before the due date. Additionally, if you work nights, don’t put off studying till after work. If at all feasible, schedule them into your mornings, your commute, or your downtime in between classes.
5. Seek Assistance Before Burning Out
Remaining mute when things became too much to handle was one of my worst errors. The colleges is there and want to help you. Get in touch with: Advisors for academics Services for student welfare and mental health Your instructors or tutors for the course Discuss changing your hours with your employer if work gets too demanding. Most are more understanding than you might think because they are accustomed to working with student staff.
6. Guard Your Physical and Mental Well-Being
Attempting to do everything at once will quickly exhaust you. Among the things that saved my life were: Sunday meal preparation to cut down on takeaway Walking or stretching in between study periods and shifts When sleep is prioritized, it consistently outperforms coffee. A cup that is empty cannot be used to pour. You just have to take care of yourself especially now you are in a completely new environment.
7. Create an Expert Budget to Avoid Overworking
Working longer hours just to cover takeout meals and frequent Uber rides isn’t a smart trade-off. Instead, take advantage of student discounts, set a weekly spending limit, and track where your money goes. Cook at home more often, and choose walking or cycling when possible. Every bit you save reduces the pressure to earn more. The better you manage your finances, the fewer hours you’ll need to work giving you more time for studying, rest, and enjoying student life.
8. Create a Network of Support
It can be lonely to study in a foreign nation. You’re not alone, though. Make connections with your coworkers, classmates, or even other international students. You’ll be shocked to learn how many people are facing similar difficulties. Whether it’s organizing a study group, discussing employment leads, or venting after a long shift, community makes a big impact.
Concluding remarks
As an international student in the UK, juggling employment and school is difficult, but it is completely doable. You can manage the strain without losing yourself if you have a solid support network, a good plan, and an honest self-evaluation. By deciding to study abroad, you’ve already made a significant decision. That alone demonstrates bravery and fortitude. Although there will be difficult days, the self-discipline, time management, and resilience you develop now will benefit you throughout your life. The lessons you learn from this chapter will last a lifetime.
