How to Balance Studying at University with a Part-Time Job

So, you’re thinking of getting a part-time job during your time at university? Great idea! Not only can it help you earn some extra cash to pay for everyday essentials, but it will also help you meet new people and develop skills to enhance your CV. 

When you’re juggling uni work with a job however, you need to think about how you do this without it impacting your studies. But how do you strike the right balance? To give you a head start, we’ve put together some tips on how to balance studying at university with a part-time job. 

Balancing Work and Study: Four Tips for Uni Students 

1. Think about your study schedule and timetable 

If you have a part-time job or are thinking about getting one, you need ensure you are prioritising your uni work and not taking on too many hours at your job. 

It is important to establish a healthy work-study-life balance from the start. You should communicate with your employer about what your timetable looks like and be open about any assignments or deadlines you have coming up. This should help set clear boundaries with your employer as to how flexible you can be. 

During term time, we advise you to work no more than 16 hours per week. When it comes to winter break or spring break, you may want to take on extra shifts to support your employer and earn a little extra money. It’s up to you to know your limits and not overdo it with work, you should still have time to relax and unwind.  

2. Learn to plan your time effectively  

One of the benefits of having a part-time job at uni is that it teaches you to be more productive with the time that you have. At the same time, it is important for you to be realistic with your workload and plan you time accordingly. Without planning, you can fall into the trap of becoming stressed or overwhelmed.  

This can be as simple as having a diary or planner where you mark down when your lectures are, your shift patterns, and any other activities you do. Not only will this give you a clear overview of what you have on, but it will also help you see where you have any conflicts or gaps in your schedule.  

If you’re not sure where to start, check out our recommendations on the best time management apps for students.  

3. Do not miss your lectures, seminars, or tutorials  

You might feel the temptation to take on extra work to help your boss out and to get some extra cash, but don’t prioritise this over going to your lectures. Unless you’re ill or have another important reason, you should attend every lecture. This will help you get the most of out your course and keep you on track to do well in your assignments.  

4. Take care of yourself 

Even if you have enough free time to take on extra hours at your part-time job, make sure you are putting your wellbeing first. Be realistic about how much you can do. Other people might be less sympathetic to your needs, so you should always be thinking about what you need.  

Give yourself time to relax and unwind from both your studies and your work. Make time to see your friends, grab a coffee or do something fun. Your body and mind will feel much better if you do. 

You should also embrace being a student. It’s a unique experience and comes with lots of opportunities and activities to participate in. This can be things that support your future career or fun events that allow you to enjoy yourself.  

For when you need support 

If you’re finding it challenging to balance your studies with other commitments, there’s always someone you can talk to. 

• 24/7 student support Helpline – where you can speak to a counsellor at any time about everything from work stress and anxiety to work-life balance. 

• Student Union Advice Centre – offers free and confidential advice with a trained counsellor on academic, housing, student funding and money issues.