For international students in the UK, part-time employment is not only a means to support living expenses but also an opportunity to gain valuable work experience. The burden of having to support yourself is a tall task, having to balance education with employment, but the UK job market is diverse and dynamic, offering a variety of roles that can complement a student’s academic schedule. Here are some of the highest-paying part-time jobs available in 2025:
- Tutor
Average Pay: £15–£30 per hour
Students proficient in subjects like mathematics, science, or languages can offer tutoring services. This role provides flexibility and the satisfaction of helping others succeed academically. Private tutoring, especially for GCSE and A-Level students, remains in high demand. This consequently aids students with their studies, helping them with active recall and academic endeavours.
With the growth of online learning platforms, students can now teach virtually, reaching a wider audience and setting their hours. This also allows for international clients, potentially increasing earning potential. Students can apply for a variety of jobs such as teaching through Indeed and Tes.
- Translator
Average Pay: £10–£20 per hour
Fluency in multiple languages opens doors to translation work. Translators are in demand for converting documents, websites, and other materials, offering a flexible work schedule. Legal, academic, and medical translations tend to pay more due to the complexity involved.
Pakistani students fluent in Urdu or regional languages may find niche opportunities translating for community organizations or local councils aiming to serve immigrant populations.
- Research Assistant
Average Pay: £10–£15 per hour
Universities often seek research assistants to support academic projects. This role enhances research skills and provides insight into academic careers. Tasks can range from data collection and literature reviews to administrative duties and technical support.
Being a research assistant also strengthens a student’s academic profile, especially for those considering postgraduate studies. It can lead to publications or conference participation, adding value to a resume.
- Freelance Writer
Average Pay: £12–£25 per hour
Students with strong writing skills can pursue freelance writing opportunities, contributing to blogs, articles, and marketing content. This job offers creative freedom and remote work options. Experience in SEO and content marketing can lead to higher-paying gigs.
Freelancers often build portfolios that help in future full-time employment, especially in journalism, communications, or digital marketing fields.
- Event Planner Assistant
Average Pay: £14 per hour
Assisting in organizing events provides experience in coordination and logistics. This role is ideal for students interested in the hospitality or event management sectors. Responsibilities can include guest management, setup, promotions, and post-event analysis.
Many event jobs occur on weekends or evenings, making them suitable for students who want to avoid clashing with lectures or classes.
- Dog Walker
Average Pay: £10–£15 per hour
For animal lovers, dog walking offers a flexible schedule and the joy of spending time outdoors. It’s a stress-relieving job that fits well around academic commitments. In larger cities, dog walkers can often earn more by managing multiple clients simultaneously.
This job also builds a sense of routine and responsibility, which can positively influence time management skills in students.
- Customer Service Representative
Average Pay: £9–£12 per hour
Working in customer service helps develop communication skills and provides experience in handling diverse situations, beneficial for future careers. It can include roles in retail, tech support, or hospitality sectors.
Some positions offer commission or bonuses, especially in sales environments, increasing the overall compensation beyond hourly wages.
- Barista
Average Pay: £10–£15 per hour
Barista roles are popular among students, offering flexible hours and the chance to work in vibrant environments like cafes and coffee shops. It also improves interpersonal skills and the ability to work under pressure.
Experience in this field can lead to supervisory roles or better-paying positions in premium outlets.
