Meridean Overseas
Updated On 27 June 2024 & Read Time 12 minutes
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In its monthly wage growth report, the ONS disclosed in June that the average salary rise (including bonuses) for the three months from February 2024 to April 2024 was 5.9%. It indicates that pay growth surpasses the current 2.0% annual inflation rate.
The UK is one of the most desired destinations in the world, wherein, with part-time or full-time jobs, students can manage their finances by getting UK minimum wages. It is one of the most costly countries in the world to study in, with one of the highest living costs in the UK. Moreover, students having full- or part-time employment can manage their finances by receiving the UK minimum wage per hour.
In this complete guide, we have uncovered the UK minimum wage rate per hour, 2024, its current rates, and how it impacts Indian students studying in the UK. Moreover, we will also brief the work eligibility criteria, restrictions, and regulations for Indian Students so that they can make their life smoother while studying in the UK.
Table of Contents
The minimum wage UK is the lawful minimum wage employers must pay their staff members per hour. It is a protective measure to ensure fair compensation for employees, including Indian students.
Age Group (yrs) |
Per Hour Wage in UK (INR) |
Indian Minimum Wage Per Hour (INR) |
23 and above |
1075 |
111 |
21-22 |
1050 |
104 |
18-20 |
773 |
81 |
16-17 |
544 |
57 |
Apprentice |
554 |
47 |
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Register Now!The current minimum wage rates in UK can vary based on age and employment status. Below, you can check the Current UK Minimum Wage per Hour.
For those over 23, the National living costs in the UK are INR 1075 per hour.
The hourly adult rate for workers between the ages of 21 and 22 is INR 1050. Though slightly lower than the National living costs in the UK, it guarantees that young adults get compensation for their work.
The development rate for employees between the ages of 18 and 20 is INR 773 per hour. This rate demonstrates the value of paying fair compensation to young workers who are just beginning their careers.
The average salary UK for workers aged 16 to 17 is INR 544. This rate applies to those who are just starting employment and have to work and attend school at the same time.
For trainees under 19 or in their first year as an apprentice, the hourly rate is INR 544. This percentage demonstrates how beneficial internships are for learning and easing the transition from education to the workforce.
Also, Read: Study in the UK without IELTS
Regardless of nationality, full-time workers are entitled to the minimum wage rate in UK. However, the UK minimum wage system considers age and the job sector as determining factors. Employees aged 18, 18 to 20, 21 to 22 and above 23 working in different work areas are entitled to different salaries.
Here, you will find the minimum wage for full-time workers for different job sectors.
Full-time Job Title |
UK Minimum Wage Per Hour (INR) |
Legal |
2,460 |
Healthcare |
2,138 |
IT |
2,090 |
Finance |
2,610 |
Education |
1,253 |
Engineering |
2,088 |
Sales & Marketing |
1,566 |
Admin & Office |
1,044 |
Manufacturing |
1,253 |
Hospitality |
835 |
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Part-time work is common among Indian students in the UK, balancing their academic and employment responsibilities. Just like full-time workers, part-time employees' earnings are determined by their age group and job sectors. We have provided an in-depth analysis of the minimum salary UK for different job categories among part-time workers.
Part-time Job Title |
UK Minimum Wage Per Hour (INR) (Approx.) |
Barista |
731 |
Retail Assistant |
835 |
Receptionist |
835 |
Tutoring |
1,566 |
Customer service representative |
835 |
Library assistant |
1,086 |
Data entry clerk |
1,566 |
Food delivery driver |
1,061 |
Dog Walker |
835 |
Grocery store clerk |
750 |
Want to know more about part-time job wages for students in UK? Talk to Our Counsellor to get assistance.
Book a Free SessionThe impact of the UK minimum wage per hour on Indian students is significant and multifaceted. Indian students intending to pursue higher education in the UK often rely on part-time employment to manage their study and living costs and gain work experience. Therefore, the minimum wage directly affects their earnings, financial stability, and overall experience.
Financial Stability
Impact on Budgeting
Quality of Life
Academic Performance
Career Development
Contribution to Expenses
Economic Independence
Challenges of Low-Paying Jobs
Navigating Work Regulations
Also, Read: Cost of Studying in the UK
Various anticipates regarding adjustments to the UK minimum wage per hour have been made in anticipation of 2024.
1. Economic Growth and Inflation
The UK government may modify the hourly minimum wage to account for inflation and economic expansion in light of recent economic events. This adjustment is required to ensure that workers receive fair compensation, given the potential for economic growth and the rising cost of living.
2. Rise in UK Living Wage
An increase in the UK life wage, a rate of pay assessed independently and intended to provide workers with a reasonable standard of life, is another possibility for 2024. In contrast to the UK minimum wage of £60 per hour, the Living Wage Foundation reviews and modifies its rate yearly, with an increase scheduled for 2024.
The government may investigate tying the minimum wage to the living wage to guarantee that workers receive a minimal salary. This reform would benefit workers and lessen income inequality in the industry.
3. Industry-Specific Changes
Different pay rules may be required in some industries because of operational challenges, skill requirements, or working circumstances. This approach acknowledges that not all jobs are created equal and aims to make up for more difficult or specialised occupations. By adjusting the minimum wage for specific industries, the government can support the expansion of those industries while upholding the rights of workers.
According to the UK Home Office, 5,00,000 sponsored UK study-related visas were issued last year. Indians accounted for almost a third of these visas.
Work eligibility for Indian students in the United Kingdom is subject to specific rules and regulations. Understanding these guidelines is essential for Indian students who wish to work part-time during their studies. Here's an overview of the work eligibility criteria for Indian students in the UK.
Students who have Tier 4 visas can work part-time. They are not allowed to be self-employed or engage in business activities.
Indian students enrolled in degree-level courses can work up to 20 hours a week as part-time employees. This work can include jobs on or off campus.
Indian students can work full-time during official university holidays and scheduled breaks. It is a valuable opportunity for students to work and earn more during these periods.
If an Indian student is in the UK on a short-term study visa (typically for English language courses), the work options may be limited, and in most cases, they may not be allowed to work during their stay.
After completing their degree, Indian students may be eligible to work full-time in the UK for a specified period through the Post-Study Work (PSW) visa or the Graduate Route. These routes allow recent graduates to explore career opportunities in the UK.
Employers in the UK are required to verify the work eligibility of Indian students, so students should be prepared to provide evidence of their student status and the number of hours they are permitted to work.
Work restrictions and regulations for Indian students in the United Kingdom are essential to ensure that students comply with their visa conditions and employment rights. Comprehending these guidelines is essential for a seamless and prosperous academic journey in the UK.
Here are the key work restrictions and regulations that Indian students should be aware of:
Students with a Tier 4 (General) student visa category can work part-time during term time, typically up to 20 hours per week.
During official university holidays and scheduled breaks, Indian students can work full-time.
Indian students on a short-term study visa, often used for English language courses, may have limited or no work options.
Indian students planning to work in the UK must obtain a National Insurance number. This number is essential for tax and employment purposes and ensures that employment income is recorded correctly.
f Indian students have dependents in the UK, such as a spouse or child, the work eligibility rules for these dependents may differ from those of the primary student visa holder.
When rent is excluded, the average monthly cost of living for a single person or student in the UK is about ₹76,572.5 (£754.0). With rent and other incidental costs excluded, the average family's expenses are roughly ₹261,158.5 (£2,571.5).
List of Essentials and Their Prices for Daily Life in the United Kingdom:
Types of Expenses |
Living Costs in the UK Per Month (INR) |
Housing |
50,300 |
Bills (electric/ gas/ water) |
4000-5000 |
Food |
16000- 20000 |
TV license |
1260 (or 15000 per year) |
Mobile phone |
1500-5000 |
Clothes and Leisure |
4000-5000 |
Books & Supplies |
3000 |
Socialising |
12000 |
Transportation |
3500-4000 |
It can be challenging to balance living expenses and part-time employment, but it is possible with proper planning. Here are some pointers:
Budgeting: Monitor your earnings and expenses with great care. Keep track of expenses by using apps for budgeting.
Accommodation: Choose dorm rooms or shared housing; these options tend to be less expensive.
Utilities: Use less electrical power and choose to split utility payments with your roommates.
Groceries: Instead of often dining out, cook at home and shop at discount stores like Aldi, Lidl, or Tesco.
Transportation: Use public transportation savings for students, and consider riding a bike or walking.
Savings: Save a certain amount of your earnings every week. Over time, even a small weekly savings of £20 might add up to a significant sum.
In conclusion, the UK minimum wage per hour is a significant factor in the lives of Indian students studying in the UK. It impacts their financial stability and work opportunities. Being knowledgeable about the current rates and regulations is necessary for a fruitful academic career in the UK. With the above information regarding the UK minimum Wage per hour 2024, you now clearly understand what salary you can expect and when you will be eligible for work. Moreover, if you follow the UK's proper work rules and restrictions, you can avert the negative implications.
If you want to know more about UK minimum wage per hour 2024 or want to work in UK, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad. Get help with the application process, SOPs, and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling, or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011.
Question: Can Indian students work part-time in the UK?
Answer: Yes, Indian students can work part-time in the UK, subject to specific regulations and work restrictions.
Question: What is the current minimum wage in UK for full-time workers?
Answer: The minimum wage in UK varies by age group and job sector.
Question: Are there different minimum wage rates for part-time workers in the UK?
Answer: Yes, the minimum wage rate in UK is categorised by age and employment status, including full-time and part-time workers.
Question: How can Indian students ensure they are paid the correct minimum wage in UK?
Answer: Indian students should ensure their employers pay them at least the minimum wage based on age and employment status. They can also consult official government sources for guidance.
Question: What are the consequences of employers not paying the minimum wage in UK?
Answer: Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage may face penalties and legal actions. Indian students should report such violations to the appropriate authorities.
Question: Can an employer pay less than the minimum wage for training?
Answer: Even if employees are enrolled in training, their employer must still pay them at least the state minimum wage. Nonetheless, there are a few noteworthy exceptions, such as particular educational initiatives where the rates might be lower. Before signing the employment contract, you should review the terms and conditions.
Question: Does the UK's average part-time salary remain the same?
Answer: Yes. No matter how many hours a person works part-time each week, they must give you the minimum wage. The total amount you earn equals the number of hours you work; the average hourly wage remains constant.
Question: What happens if an employer fails to pay the minimum wage?
Answer: Employees can report nonpayment of the minimum wage to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). HMRC has the authority to investigate businesses that are breached and pursue legal action, including garnishing wages and fines.
Question: How is the minimum wage determined in the United Kingdom?
Answer: The UK government receives recommendations from the impartial Low Pay Commission and utilises their suggestions to set the minimum wage. This commission considers several variables to determine a suitable rate, such as the economy's status, the inflation rate, and the demands of firms and employees.
Question: What is the meaning of national living wage?
Answer: The National Living rate is the hourly minimum wage for workers over 25. This allows the beneficiary to maintain a fair quality of living, usually greater than the federally mandated minimum wage for adults.
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