Ultimate Guide to Student Jobs in the UK (2025): Part-Time Roles, Pay and Visa Rules

Moving to the UK as an international student is an exciting milestone. From world-renowned universities to a vibrant cultural mix, there’s so much to explore. But while adjusting to a new academic environment is important, managing your finances is just as crucial. Between tuition fees, student accommodation in the UK, transportation, and day-to-day expenses, the cost of living in the UK as a student can add up quickly.

That’s why many international students choose to take on part-time jobs. This allows them to gain financial support, work experience, build new skills, and connect with local communities. The United Kingdom offers a wide range of flexible and student-friendly job opportunities, from hospitality and retail to online freelancing and on-campus roles.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best part-time jobs in the UK for international students in 2025. We’ll cover what roles are in demand, how much you can earn, visa work hour limits, and tips for balancing work with your studies. To help you plan your budget even better, we’ll also highlight useful tools like our cost of living calculator and share insights on choosing affordable student housing. Whether you’re studying in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, or any other UK city, this guide is your one-stop resource for working smart while studying.

Quick Facts About Part-Time Work in the UK (2025) 

Thinking about taking up a part-time job while studying in the UK? Here are the key facts international students need to know before jumping into the job market in 2025, from wages to work limits, and everything in between.

• Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official holidays. 
• Starting April 2025, the UK government increased hourly wages to £12.21/hour for ages 21 and over.
• On average, international students in the UK can earn between £150 to £400 per week, depending on the job type, hours worked, and location.
• Popular sectors that regularly hire students and offer flexible hours are Retail, Hospitality, Customer Service, and Tutoring.
• The highest paying student job in the UK in 2025 is Private Tutoring, which pays from £25 to £50 per hour. 

Student Hack: Pairing the right part-time job with affordable student accommodation in the UK can significantly ease your financial stress. Look for well-located housing that cuts your commute and maximises your flexibility.

Understanding Your Work Rights as an International Student (2025)

Before you jump into job hunting, there’s one important thing every international student in the UK must know: your right to work is limited by law. And breaking those rules, even by accident, could risk your visa status.

Don’t worry though, staying compliant is simple once you know the rules. Here’s a clear, up-to-date breakdown of what you can and can’t do when it comes to part-time work in 2025.

How Many Hours Can You Work While Studying?

The number of hours you can work depends on the level of your course and your visa type. Here's a quick guide:

Pro Tip: Your eVisa will clearly state your working hours. Always double-check it before starting a job.

Minimum Wage in the UK (Updated April 2025)

The UK raised its minimum wage in April 2025, great news for students looking to earn while they study.

In cities like Birmingham and Coventry, this wage goes further, especially if you opt to live in affordable and well-located student housing like Canalside Birmingham or The Apollo Works in Coventry, where you're just minutes away from top job hotspots and university campuses.

Jobs You Can’t Do on a Student Visa

While many jobs are open to international students, there are a few that are strictly off-limits. Here’s what you should avoid:

• Self-employment or freelancing (e.g., Deliveroo under your own account)
• Permanent full-time jobs
• Professional sports or coaching roles
• Medical or dental training roles, unless required by your course
• Entertainment industry jobs, such as acting or modelling gigs

Stick to flexible part-time roles like retail, hospitality, tutoring, and on-campus jobs as they’re legal, accessible, and often student-friendly.

Types of Part-Time Jobs Available for International Students (2025)

Let’s be real: studying in the UK is amazing, but it’s not cheap. That’s why a part-time job can be a game-changer. Whether you're saving for rent, weekend getaways, or just a solid meal out, the right job can ease financial pressure without wrecking your schedule.

Here’s a breakdown of the main types of part-time jobs available in 2025, with honest pros, cons, and some real-world tips for choosing what works best for you.

On-Campus Jobs

Ideal for: First-time job seekers and students who want convenience

These roles are usually offered by universities in the UK or the student union, and they’re perfect if you want to stay close to class and avoid long commutes.

These include:

• Library or IT lab assistant
• Campus tour guide or ambassador
• Student support roles
• Research or teaching assistant (especially for postgrads)

Why students love them:

• You’re already on campus, so no extra travel
• Employers understand your academic priorities
• Often flexible around lectures and deadlines

But...

• They have limited openings, so you’ll need to apply early
• Pay can be lower compared to off-campus roles

Live close to uni? You're golden. Staying in centrally located student housing like Morriss House in Nottingham puts you steps away from campus, and one step ahead of others when on-campus roles open up.

Off-Campus Jobs

Ideal for: Students wanting more variety and better pay

Want to get a feel for life outside the university bubble? Off-campus jobs offer real-world experience, plus better pay in many cases.

These include:

• Barista or restaurant server
• Retail assistant in high-street shops
• Call centre or customer service rep
• Weekend babysitter or pet sitter
• Event staff or usher at local venues

Why students love them:

• More options, more pay
• Build real UK work experience
• Great for practising communication skills

But...

• Commutes can eat into your day
• Shifts may clash with your lectures

Living somewhere well-connected makes all the difference. If you’re based at Romano Court, London, getting to work is a breeze; the city’s job-rich centre is practically on your doorstep.

Remote / Online Jobs

Ideal for: Independent workers and night owls

In 2025, remote work is booming, and students are cashing in. If you’ve got a laptop and a stable internet connection, you can earn without leaving your room.

These include:

• Online tutoring (math, English, or even your native language)
• Writing, editing, or graphic design
• Virtual assistant roles
• Transcription or data entry
• Social media content creation

Why students love them:

• No commuting = more time for Netflix (or revision)
• Ultimate schedule freedom
• You’re not limited by geography, clients can be global

But...

• You’ll need serious self-discipline
• Some roles have inconsistent pay or fewer protections

Remote jobs pair best with comfortable and well-equipped spaces. Think study rooms and co-working lounges with reliable Wi-Fi,  like those at Manchester Student Village, Manchester. You can go from “online tutor” to “study mode” without changing your seat.

Not Sure Which One’s Right for You?

Ask yourself:

• Do I need flexibility? → Try on-campus or remote gigs.
• Is higher pay a priority? → Look off-campus.
• Hate commuting? → Choose a job close to home or work online.
• Want everything nearby? → Book smart student housing near city centres and universities.

Student Tip: Your job should support your academic journey, not compete with it. That’s why students who live in the right accommodation, like Potterrow, Edinburgh or Archways, Sheffield, often find it easier to balance everything. Less travel, more time, better focus.

25 Best Part-Time Jobs for International Students in the UK (2025)

Whether you’re looking for high-paying specialised roles or flexible gigs to fit around your study schedule, there’s something for everyone in the UK. The key is to find the right balance so you can excel in both work and study while enjoying your stay at student accommodation in UK. So, let’s explore the best part-time jobs that can help you achieve financial independence and gain valuable experience during your time in the UK!

High-Paying Specialized Jobs (£15 to £50/hour)

1. Private Tutor
   • Average Pay: £25 to £50/hour
   • Ideal For: Students with strong academic backgrounds
   • Why It Works: Whether you’re teaching Maths, Science, English, or even your native language, tutoring is a high-demand job. You can earn a good income while helping others succeed academically.
   • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: You can tutor remotely, making it a flexible job that works well if you’re living in a student property close to campus like The Depot, Bath.

2. Freelance Content Writer
   • Average Pay: £15 to £35/hour
   • Ideal For: Students with excellent English writing skills
   • Why It Works: Freelance writing gives you the opportunity to create content for blogs, websites, or marketing campaigns. Plus, many companies appreciate diverse international perspectives.
   • Visa Compliance: Allowed if working through an agency or as an employee; self-employment is not permitted.

Tip: This job can be done remotely, so if your student accommodation is quiet and equipped with good Wi-Fi and quiet study rooms, you can easily balance writing with your studies.

3. Research Assistant
   • Average Pay: £15 to £25/hour
   • Ideal For: Graduate students and those in research fields
   • Why It Works: Research assistants help professors with data collection, analysis, and reporting. This role provides exposure to your field and allows you to develop academic skills.
   • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Look for research assistant positions within your university, making it easier to balance work with university life and reduce commute time from your UK student halls.

4. Web Developer/Designer
   • Average Pay: £18 to £30/hour
   • Ideal For: Students with technical skills
   • Why It Works: Building websites or designing graphics offers flexibility and a high pay rate. The demand for web developers and designers is always high, and you can work on projects from anywhere.
   • Visa Compliance: Allowed if working through an agency or as an employee; self-employment is not permitted.

Tip: If you're working remotely, your student accommodation could be your perfect base, just ensure it has a reliable internet connection!

5. Social Media Manager
   • Average Pay: £12 to £20/hour
   • Ideal For: Students familiar with digital marketing
   • Why It Works: Manage social media accounts for businesses, create engaging content, and analyse campaigns. This job is ideal if you’re digitally savvy.
   • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Many small businesses prefer remote work for social media management, so it’s an excellent opportunity for students living in off-campus student properties like Student Castle, Cambridge with flexible working hours.

Customer Service and Administrative Roles (£10 to £15/hour)

6. Customer Service Representative
   • Average Pay: £11 to £14/hour
   • Ideal For: Students with good communication skills
   • Why It Works: If you're a good communicator, customer service roles offer great opportunities for flexible shifts and even remote work, often allowing you to balance work and study.
   • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Many customer service positions allow you to work from home. This flexibility means you can work from your student accommodation, whether it's on campus or in one of the top student areas in the UK.

7. Data Entry Clerk
   • Average Pay: £12 to £15/hour
   • Ideal For: Detail-oriented students
   • Why It Works: If you’re someone who enjoys working with data, this job is perfect. It’s often available as remote work, so you can fit it around your schedule.
   • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Many data entry roles can be done remotely, making them a great option for students living in private student residences as well as university-managed housing.

8. Virtual Assistant
   • Average Pay: £10 to £18/hour
   • Ideal For: Organised students with good English skills
   • Why It Works: Assist business owners with administrative tasks such as managing emails, scheduling appointments, or maintaining calendars. This job allows you to work from anywhere.
   • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Working as a virtual assistant offers flexibility, so it’s ideal for students with busy schedules and varied living arrangements.

9. Receptionist
   • Average Pay: £10 to £13/hour
   • Ideal For: Students seeking professional experience
   • Why It Works: Working as a receptionist gives you valuable customer-facing experience and helps you build professional networks. Many positions are located in offices or hotels.
   • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Look for receptionist roles near your UK student accommodation for ease of access and minimal commuting.

Retail and Hospitality Jobs (£10 to £15/hour)

10. Retail Sales Assistant
    • Average Pay: £10 to £12/hour
    • Ideal For: Students who enjoy customer interaction
    • Why It Works: Work in stores selling clothing, books, or electronics. Evening and weekend shifts are common, which makes it easier to balance with your class schedule.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Look for retail jobs near your student accommodation, many retail positions are located in central areas close to student housing.

11. Barista
    • Average Pay: £10 to £12/hour + tips
    • Ideal For: Coffee enthusiasts and people-persons
    • Why It Works: If you love coffee and meeting people, working as a barista can be a fun and social job. Plus, tips can significantly boost your hourly wage.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Cafés are often located in student hubs, making them a great option if you're looking for a job near your student accommodation.

12. Restaurant Server/Waiter
    • Average Pay: £10 to £15/hour + tips
    • Ideal For: Energetic students who work well under pressure
    • Why It Works: If you enjoy a fast-paced environment and interacting with customers, working in a restaurant is a great way to earn tips and gain customer service experience.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Restaurants often operate in busy student areas, so look for positions close to your accommodation for convenience.

13. Hotel Staff
    • Average Pay: £10 to £14/hour
    • Ideal For: Students interested in hospitality
    • Why It Works: Work as part of the hotel staff in roles like housekeeping or reception. It’s perfect for students who are keen to learn more about the hospitality industry.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Hotels often hire in student-heavy areas, so finding a role near your accommodation is relatively easy.

14. Event Staff
    • Average Pay: £11 to £16/hour
    • Ideal For: Students who enjoy varied work environments
    • Why It Works: Helps with events like conferences, concerts, and festivals. It’s a dynamic job that might involve weekend or evening shifts, but it's also a great way to meet new people.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Many event roles are offered in university towns or cities, so consider looking for these opportunities near your student accommodation.

Specialized Service Jobs (£10 to £18/hour)

15. Teaching Assistant
    • Average Pay: £12 to £16/hour
    • Ideal For: Students considering careers in education
    • Why It Works: Assist teachers in classrooms or help with lesson preparations. It’s a role that can add experience to your CV, especially if you’re pursuing an education-related degree.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Many teaching assistant jobs are on or near university campuses, making them easy to reach from your student accommodation.

16. Library Assistant
    • Average Pay: £10 to £15/hour
    • Ideal For: Students who love books and quiet environments
    • Why It Works: Work in a library helping with shelving, cataloguing, and organising events. Ideal for students who enjoy a calm, quiet environment.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Many university libraries offer assistant roles, making it a perfect job for students living in nearby accommodation like Arrad House, located near the University of Liverpool.

17. Care Assistant
    • Average Pay: £11 to £14/hour
    • Ideal For: Compassionate students interested in healthcare
    • Why It Works: Assist the elderly or disabled individuals with daily tasks. This role is rewarding and great for gaining experience in healthcare.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Many care assistant jobs are located in residential areas, so check for positions near your UK student halls.

18. Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
    • Average Pay: £12 to £18/hour
    • Ideal For: Animal lovers
    • Why It Works: If you love pets, this job allows you to spend time outdoors while walking dogs or looking after pets. It's also a relaxing job if you want a change of pace.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Pet sitting and dog walking are flexible roles that can be managed alongside your studies and work from your city centre student accommodation like Leonardo, Leeds.

19. Delivery Driver
    • Average Pay: £10 to £15/hour + tips
    • Ideal For: Students with a driving license
    • Why It Works: Deliver food, groceries, or packages using a car, bike, or on foot. It’s a role that offers flexible hours and a decent income, especially with tips.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Delivery gigs are perfect if you live in a busy area with lots of restaurants and shops near your student accommodation!

Creative and Technical Jobs (£12 to £25/hour)

20. Photographer/Videographer
    • Average Pay: £15 to £30/hour
    • Ideal For: Students with creative skills and equipment
    • Why It Works: Whether you’re shooting events, portraits, or promotional videos, photography and videography offer a creative outlet and high pay.
    • Visa Compliance: Allowed if working through an agency or as an employee; self-employment is not permitted.

Tip: This job can be done from anywhere, whether at on-campus events or at your student accommodation with quiet spaces.

21. Graphic Designer
    • Average Pay: £12 to £25/hour
    • Ideal For: Art and design students
    • Why It Works: Create logos, business cards, flyers, and digital graphics for clients. This creative job gives you the freedom to work remotely or on campus.
    • Visa Compliance: Allowed if working through an agency or as an employee; self-employment is not permitted.

Tip: You can easily work from your student accommodation as a graphic designer, making it ideal for students with flexible working arrangements.

22. Music Teacher/Performer
    • Average Pay: £15 to £35/hour
    • Ideal For: Musically talented students
    • Why It Works: If you play an instrument or sing, you can offer private lessons or perform at events.
    • Visa Compliance: Allowed if working through an agency or as an employee; self-employment is not permitted.

Tip: If you live in a student area with lots of music events, this job can be a great fit for part-time gigs near your accommodation.

23. Translator/Interpreter
    • Average Pay: £15 to £30/hour
    • Ideal For: Multilingual students
    • Why It Works: Translate documents or provide interpretation for events, businesses, or individuals. The demand for translators is always high, especially in multilingual cities.
    • Visa Compliance: Allowed if working through an agency or as an employee; self-employment is not permitted.

Tip: Many translation jobs can be done remotely, so you can work from your student accommodation, providing flexibility for your studies.

Physical and Outdoor Jobs (£10 to £14/hour)

24. Warehouse Worker
    • Average Pay: £10 to £13/hour
    • Ideal For: Students who prefer physical work
    • Why It Works: Help with packing orders, managing inventory, and shipping. This job offers flexible shifts, which means you can balance it with your studies.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: Many warehouses are located in areas close to student accommodation options, so you can easily find a position with a short commute.

25. Personal Trainer
    • Average Pay: £12 to £18/hour
    • Ideal For: Fitness enthusiasts
    • Why It Works: If you have fitness certifications, you can work as a personal trainer. It’s an active job that also helps you stay in shape while earning.
    • Visa Compliance: Permitted under student visa conditions.

Tip: You can run personal training sessions in gyms or even from your student accommodation that has an on-site gym like Chapter South Bank, London.

Updated Minimum Wage Rates (April 2025)

• 21 and over: £12.21/hour
• 18 to 20: £10/hour
• Under 18 and apprentices: £7.55/hour

These rates reflect a 6.7% increase for workers aged 21 and over, aiming to support low-paid workers against rising living costs

Salary Comparison Table: Best Part-Time Jobs for International Students in the UK (2025)

Looking to boost your budget while studying in the UK? Whether you're saving for weekend getaways or covering everyday expenses, choosing the right part-time job can make a big difference. But it’s not just about the pay, it’s about finding a role that fits around your classes and plays to your strengths.

Below is a quick snapshot of the most popular part-time jobs for international students in 2025, including average hourly wages, potential weekly earnings (based on the legal 20-hour workweek), and the core skills needed. Use this as your cheat sheet to weigh your options and make smarter decisions!

Tip: Living in purpose-built student accommodation near job-friendly zones, like NOVA, Nottingham or iQ Student Quarter, Salford, can reduce your commute and give you more time to focus on work, rest, and revision.

Managing Work-Study Balance: Thrive Without Burning Out

Juggling a part-time job with university life in the UK can feel like a tightrope walk, especially for international students adapting to a new environment. Remember, balancing work and study isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing what matters most. With the right strategies in place, you can strike a healthy balance that supports both your academic success and financial goals. Here’s how to manage your time smartly and stay on top of both work and studies in 2025:

Create a Weekly Schedule

Building a realistic weekly timetable helps you stay organised and avoid burnout:

• Block out your class times first, non-negotiables.
• Add study periods, ideally when you're most alert.
• Slot in your work shifts, choose jobs with flexible or weekend hours.
• Include downtime, sleep, socialising, exercise, and meal prep, all matter!

Bonus Tip: If you're living in student accommodation like Transome House, Bristol, you’ll often be close to campus and city centre jobs, giving you back valuable hours each week.

Use Productivity Tools That Work for Students

Apps and digital planners can take your productivity to the next level:

• Google Calendar: Sync your classes, shifts, and deadlines in one view.
• Notion: Track assignments, notes, and work tasks with templates.
• Forest: Stay focused by gamifying your study time.
• Todoist: Organise daily to-dos and set reminders for important dates.

Academic Performance Tips

Working part-time should never come at the expense of your grades. Stay proactive with your academics using these smart tips:

Communicate With Professors

• Let them know you work part-time, they’ll appreciate the heads-up.
• Request deadline extensions early, especially during busy exam or work weeks.
• Attending office hours,  it shows initiative and helps clarify concepts.
• Join a study group, sharing knowledge reduces study time and boosts retention.

Prioritise What Matters

Use productivity principles to focus your efforts where they count:

• Apply the 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle): 20% of your effort often leads to 80% of results. Focus on high-value tasks like assignments worth more marks.
• Start early: Avoid last-minute stress and give yourself time to revise or improve.
• Review consistently: Short weekly reviews beat long cramming sessions.

Tax and Financial Considerations for International Students in the UK (2025)

As an international student working part-time in the UK, it’s not just about earning money, it’s also about understanding where that money goes. The UK tax system might seem intimidating at first, but once you know the basics, it's pretty straightforward. Here’s everything you need to know to stay compliant and keep your finances on track in 2025.

Understanding the UK Tax System

All workers in the UK, including students, are subject to taxation depending on how much they earn. The good news? You’ll only start paying tax once your income crosses a certain threshold.

When Do You Need to Pay Tax?

You may owe income tax if:

• You earn more than £242 per week (as of the 2025–26 tax year).
• Your total annual income exceeds £12,570, this is known as your Personal Allowance.
• Taxes are usually deducted automatically from your pay under the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system.

So, if you’re working regular part-time hours (within your 20-hour/week limit), you're likely to earn below the tax threshold, but it’s still essential to monitor your earnings and keep records.

Living in cost-effective student housing, such as Ben Russell Court, Leicester, can ease financial pressure so you can work fewer hours and stay within tax-free limits while covering living expenses comfortably.

Getting Your National Insurance (NI) Number

Before you can legally work in the UK, you'll need a National Insurance (NI) number. This number ensures you pay the correct amount of tax and contributions, and it’s required by all employers.

How to Apply for a National Insurance Number:

• Your passport
• Your eVisa
• Proof of student visa status

Once you receive your NI number, give it to your employer to ensure your wages are correctly processed.

Pro Tip: Track Your Earnings and Stay Organised

Being financially savvy is just as important as earning a paycheck. Here’s how you can stay on top of your money while balancing your studies and part-time work:

• Use budgeting apps like Monzo, Emma, or Revolut to automatically track your income, expenses, and set spending limits.
• Save all your payslips and keep a simple spreadsheet, this will help you calculate your total earnings and claim any tax refunds if you’ve overpaid.
• Check your tax code regularly (it’s on your payslip!), especially when switching jobs, to ensure you're not being taxed incorrectly.
• Set up automatic savings, even small weekly transfers add up over time.
• Track daily expenses with apps and receipts to avoid overspending.
• Compare prices before big purchases and shop smart.
• Always ask for student discounts, whether it's transport, shopping, or entertainment, many UK retailers and services offer special rates.

Important Note: If you’re studying on a scholarship in the UK, you might want to discuss a part-time opportunity with the management, as a few scholarships don’t allow part-time work while others have a threshold for your earnings.

City-Specific Part-Time Job Opportunities (2025)

Your location can dramatically influence both your earnings and the type of job opportunities available. Here's a city-by-city breakdown of what international students can expect when working part-time in the UK:

London: High Wages, High Expectations

• Hourly Rate: 15–20% above the national average
• Top Sectors: Finance, Tech, Tourism, Hospitality
• Why It Works: London is the UK’s economic powerhouse. Jobs are competitive, but the pay often reflects that.
• Top Tip: Focus your job hunt in central zones (1–3) to reduce commute and increase job density.

Planning to study or live in London? Don’t miss our full guide to part-time jobs in London for students!

Manchester: Balance of Work and Cost

• Hourly Rate: Around the national average
• Top Sectors: Media, Education, Retail, Customer Service
• Why It Works: Manchester's growing economy and student-centric layout make it ideal for flexible roles.
• Top Tip: Tap into university job boards and placement offices for on-campus positions.

Explore our full breakdown of student part-time jobs in Manchester to find roles tailored for you.

Birmingham: Expanding Job Market

• Hourly Rate: Slightly below the national average
• Top Sectors: Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail
• Why It Works: With one of the youngest populations in Europe, Birmingham is a student job hotspot.
• Top Tip: Proficiency in additional languages is a huge plus for customer-facing roles.

Need more insights? Check out our guide to part-time jobs in Birmingham for students.

Edinburgh: Seasonal and Student-Friendly

• Hourly Rate: Above national average
• Top Sectors: Tourism, Events, Education, Hospitality
• Why It Works: Tourism peaks during festivals and holidays, offering great short-term gigs.
• Top Tip: Apply early for summer and winter roles, competition spikes during the Fringe Festival.

Want to work during your studies? Browse our top picks for part-time student jobs in Edinburgh.

Liverpool: Creative, Cultural, and Affordable

• Hourly Rate: Slightly below the national average
• Top Sectors: Arts, Education, Healthcare
• Why It Works: Lower living costs make it easier to balance lower wages with savings.
• Top Tip: Look into internships with local media or creative firms if you're in the arts.

See what’s available in our student part-time job guide for Liverpool.

Advanced Job Search Strategies for International Students (2025)

Finding the right part-time job as an international student in the UK isn’t just about scrolling through job boards, it's about making meaningful connections, positioning yourself well, and tapping into networks that most students overlook.

Networking Effectively

Your network can be more powerful than your CV if you know how to use it. These smart strategies can help you connect with the right people and open the door to job opportunities you might not find online.

University Connections

Your university is more than just a place to study, it's a built-in ecosystem of professionals, students, and future employers.

• Join International Student Societies: These groups aren’t just for socialising, they’re a goldmine for referrals, job leads, and peer advice. You’ll meet students who’ve already landed jobs and can recommend you internally.
• Attend Career Fairs and Industry Events: Whether it’s hosted by your university or a nearby employer, show up prepared with a polished CV and a quick personal pitch.
• Connect with Alumni in Your Field: Many universities have alumni mentorship programs. Reach out via LinkedIn or alumni platforms, former students are often willing to help.
• Participate in Student Government or Campus Committees: These roles help you build soft skills like leadership and communication, and employers love that.

• Proximity Matters: If you’re based in student accommodation like Vita Student Strawberry Space, Newcastle, you’re often just minutes away from campus events and networking meetups. Living closer means less stress, better attendance, and more face time with the right people.

Professional Networks

Outside your university bubble, it’s essential to establish a visible presence in your chosen industry, even as a part-timer.

• Create a Strong LinkedIn Profile: Use a professional photo, write a compelling summary, and list any projects, internships, or achievements. Recruiters do look at student profiles, especially for remote and part-time roles.
• Join Industry-Specific LinkedIn or Slack Groups: Whether you’re interested in marketing, data science, healthcare, or finance, find and join communities where professionals share tips and job openings.
• Attend External Networking Events or Conferences: Cities like London and Manchester regularly host student-focused career expos and “speed networking” events. These are excellent places to make real-world connections, especially if you're looking for jobs in competitive sectors like tech or media.
• Volunteer with Professional Organisations: Volunteering at events hosted by groups like CIPD (for HR students) or BCS (for computer science) puts you in touch with professionals who could later become mentors, or even employers.

• Urban Advantage: Living in well-connected cities can boost your chances of attending these events. Exploreour top student accommodation in London; they place you in the heart of the action, within walking distance of key business districts and event venues.

Bonus Tip: Tap into Niche Job Boards

Beyond Indeed or LinkedIn, consider UK-based job platforms like:

• StudentJob.co.uk: Perfect for part-time and flexible roles
• RateMyPlacement: Ideal for internships and placements
• Escape the City: Great for non-traditional roles in startups and impact-driven companies

Seasonal Part-Time Job Opportunities for Students in the UK

Timing can be everything when it comes to finding the best part-time jobs. In the UK, job availability often spikes during key seasonal periods, and international students who plan ahead can land higher-paying, more flexible roles with minimal competition.

Whether you're studying in London, Edinburgh, or Manchester, here's when and where to look:

Christmas Rush (November–January)

The festive season is a goldmine for part-time roles, and not just in retail.

• Retail Roles Surge by 40%: Big brands and local shops bulk up their teams for the shopping boom. From gift wrapping to stock replenishment, there's a role for everyone.
• Delivery Services Boom: Companies like Royal Mail, Amazon, and local courier firms hire seasonal delivery staff to meet demand.
• Events and Hospitality Expand: Think Christmas parties, winter festivals, hotel banquets, and New Year’s Eve events, many venues hire temporary staff to handle crowds.

Tip: Apply early, some Christmas jobs open as early as September!

• Live Smart, Work Closer: If you’re staying in centrally located accommodation like John Bell House, Belfast, you’ll be near major shopping centres, hospitality hotspots, and delivery depots, saving you hours on commutes.

Summer Season (June–August)

When the sun’s out, the job market heats up too, especially for tourism, events, and short-term contracts.

• Tourism and Travel Jobs Peak: Museums, sightseeing tours, and travel centres hire additional staff to manage summer crowds.
• Festival and Event Gigs: From Glastonbury to local food festivals, event companies need setup crews, ticket staff, and customer service assistants.
• Outdoor Activity Instructors: Roles open up for students with skills in sports, swimming, kayaking, or cycling.
• Temporary Full-Time Positions: With many full-time workers on holiday, students often fill in as temps in offices, shops, and call centres.

• Proximity Pays Off: Summer jobs often involve early starts or late finishes. Choosing accommodation near event venues like Luxurio, Loughborough, helps you make the most of seasonal shifts.

Back-to-School Surge (September–October)

As autumn arrives, a new wave of part-time roles becomes available, especially on or near campus.

• Spike in Tutoring Demand: Parents and students begin booking private tutors for subjects like Maths, English, and science. Native language tutors are also in demand.
• Campus Jobs Open Up: Unis hire students for library help desks, admin roles, student ambassadors, and event support.
• Retail Prepares for Holiday Shopping: Stores start hiring early for Black Friday and Christmas, especially large retail chains and department stores.
• Customer Service Ramps Up: Help desks and e-commerce platforms gear up for holiday support needs.

• Bonus: Many back-to-school jobs are recurring, giving you a stable source of income across terms. Living in a UK student accommodation near campus means you’ll be among the first to hear about internal openings.

Pro Tip: Plan Ahead

The best roles fill fast, so set reminders to start applying:

• Christmas roles → Apply from September
• Summer gigs → Apply from April
• Back-to-school jobs → Start looking in August

Your Path to Financial Independence in 2025: Work, Study & Succeed in the UK

Part-time work in the UK isn’t just a source of income, it’s a gateway to personal growth, professional development, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re tutoring, serving, researching, or coding, every hour you work adds value to your student journey.

More importantly, it teaches you how to balance academics, career goals, and everyday responsibilities,  a life skill that will serve you long after graduation.

Remember: The most successful students aren’t just lucky, they’re consistent, prepared, and proactive. With over 2.8 million international students in the UK, the market is competitive, but there's plenty of opportunity for those who are ready to seize it.

One More Thing Before You Apply...

Location can make or break your part-time job experience. Want to cut down on long commutes and live near buzzing job hotspots like cafes, retail centres, and campus hubs?

Explore Best Student Halls, a trusted platform offering student-friendly accommodation across top UK cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Liverpool. Find a room that fits your lifestyle and your career goals, so you can study, work, and thrive in the UK.

This guide was last updated in June 2025 with the latest minimum wage rates, visa regulations, and job market information. For the most current updates, always check official government sources and your university's international student services.