FAQ 521
What is the National Minimum Wage in the UK?

The National Minimum Wage is the minimum pay per hour almost all workers are entitled to. Most students will fit into the first three categories in the table below. The hourly rate for the minimum wage depends on your age and whether you’re an apprentice. You must be at least:

  • School leaving age to get the National Minimum Wage
  • Aged 25 to get the National Living Wage - the minimum wage will still apply for workers aged 24 and under

Current Rates

The National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage change every April. These rates are updated every October and can be found on the Government UK website.

We would not recommend working in a job role which pays below the minimum wage for your age. The University of Bedfordshire's Careers & Employability Service does not advertise vacancies for companies who pay less than the minimum wage.

If you would like help with finding work, please see the relevant FAQs.

If you have any questions, please contact us via email: careers@beds.ac.uk