Employment during your studies

When you start studying at the University it is expected that you have adequate funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the whole duration of your study. However, there may be times where you may need additional funding to support your studies.

Many students take part-time work to help fund their studies. In addition to the usual part-time work, being a Doctoral Researcher presents several additional University opportunities including:  

  • Teaching
  • Demonstrating  
  • Exam invigilation  
  • Research Associate opportunities (if related to research degree)  
  • Sub-Warden roles in the University halls of residence  
  • Open Day helpers  

In the first instance, speak to your School to find out what opportunities they may have.  

If you are studying for a full-time programme, you should plan to work no more than six hours per week. This is to ensure you have adequate time to dedicate to your PhD and maintain a healthy work-life balance.  

We advise you discuss work arrangements with your supervisor, especially if you feel they are impacting on your wellbeing or progression in any way.  

Student visas and Employment  

Student visa holders are also subject to separate requirements by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). As a condition of your visa, you must not work more than 20 hours per week. Note that Doctoral Research degrees do not have term/non-term times. If you need to work more than 20 hours per week for a short period, then see section below on Work during Annual Leave.    

Sponsored students should also note any additional restrictions imposed as a condition by their funding body.  

If you have any queries, please contact p.g.research@mailbox.lboro.ac.uk.  

Work during Annual Leave

Doctoral Researchers may with the prior agreement of their supervisor(s), take 30 working days annual leave per year, as well as public holidays and University closure days. Doctoral Researchers can choose to take paid employment during this time.  

Student visa holders can book annual leave to take up employment for more than 20 hours per week. You must speak with your primary supervisor and the relevant member of administrative staff in your School if you wish to book annual leave for this purpose. Please note that you will also require approval from the University HR department if you wish to be employed by the University for more than 20 hours per week.