What Are The Best Paying Student Jobs?
The best paying student jobs are tutoring, freelancing, hospitality work and gig economy jobs.
Being a student is expensive. Between tuition fees, rent, and nights out, finding ways to make extra money can be a game-changer. But let’s be honest - balancing uni life and a part-time job isn’t easy.
The good news? Some jobs pay way better than others while still fitting around your studies.
Whether you want to freelance, tutor, or take on flexible shifts, we’ve rounded up the best student jobs to help you boost your bank balance.
Let’s dive in.
What Should You Look For In A Student Job?
Not all student jobs are created equal.
Before applying, ask yourself:
Is it flexible? A zero-hour contract or freelance role means you can control your schedule, so you won’t have to choose between work and lectures.
Does it pay enough? Some jobs offer minimum wage, while others can pay double (or more). The right role should be worth your time.
Does it line up with your skills? Choosing a job that complements your degree can give you valuable experience while earning money.
Want to start earning but not sure what suits you best? Check out Prograd’s Smart Money Quiz to find the perfect side hustle based on your skills and goals.
Where Should You Look For High-Paying Student Jobs?
So you know what you want, now where do you find it?
Online job platforms are a great place to start looking for roles. These allow you to filter student jobs by salaries and working hours that appeal to you. Look for platforms that provide variety to help you shop around.
Additionally, use social media!
Many companies post adverts on platforms like Linkedin. Expand your network and build a profile that showcases your skills to help you apply directly.
Finally, speak to your university career office. These offices help you find jobs that are made specifically for students.
Once you have an idea of what you’re after, bringing in someone to help is a sure-fire way to find a student job faster.
What Are The Best Paying Student Jobs?
Ok, so you know where to look, but you might need some job inspo.
Look no further! We’ve put together a list of flexible student jobs that will help you reach your savings goals in no time:
1. Freelancing & Online Work
Potential earnings: £10-£50/hour
Want to work from anywhere? Freelancing lets you earn money on your own terms.
Whether it’s copywriting, social media management, graphic design, or virtual assistance, platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can connect you with clients willing to pay good rates.
Bonus: Some students make £1,000+ per month freelancing—especially in high-demand skills like coding or video editing.
2. Tutoring
Potential earnings: £15-£40/hour
If you're particularly good in a subject, tutoring is one of the most profitable student jobs. You can tutor younger students in GCSEs, A-Levels, or even university-level subjects. The best part? You set your own rates.
Bonus: If you have a second language or are particularly good at maths, these can be extra lucrative tutoring roles due to their demand.
3. Delivery Driving (Uber Eats, Deliveroo, Stuart)
Potential earnings: £10-£20/hour + tips
Got a bike or scooter? Food delivery jobs are a great way to earn decent money with flexible hours. You can work evenings and weekends—without clashing with lectures.
Pro tip: Work in high-demand areas during peak hours (dinner times, weekends) to get your earnings up.
4. Hospitality & Bar Work
Potential earnings: £9-£12/hour + tips
Hospitality jobs can be incredibly lucrative if you work at the right places. High-end restaurants and bars offer service charges and tips as a percentage of the meal cost. If you work somewhere with an expensive menu, you can boost your take-home pay beyond your wage.
5. Remote Admin & Virtual Assistance
Potential earnings: £12-£20/hour
Many startups and small businesses need virtual assistants for things like data entry, schedulling, and customer service. These jobs often pay well and let you work from home.
6. Event Staffing
Potential earnings: £10-£20/hour
Love concerts or festivals? Work as an event steward, bartender, or brand ambassador at major events. Just sign up to a job agency and let them find the shifts for you!
7. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking
Potential earnings: £10-£25/hour
Love animals? Pet sitting and dog walking can pay surprisingly well, especially in cities.
Advertise on community boards or through word of mouth, if you can try and walk multiple dogs in one go so you earn more per hour!
8. Selling Clothes & Handmade Goods
Potential earnings: Unlimited!
Got an eye for fashion? Sell second-hand clothes on Depop, Vinted, or eBay.
Or, if you’re crafty, sell handmade jewellery, art, or gifts on Etsy. Try and visit charity shops to find good deals, or ask local schools if they have any leftover crafts for you to use!
Finding The Best Student Job For You
Making money as a student doesn’t have to mean minimum wage jobs. Whether you freelance, tutor, deliver food, or start your own side hustle, the key is to pick a role that pays well and fits around your studies.
Start by thinking about what you’re looking for, then use the tools at your disposal to find the right fit for you.
At the end of it all, you’ll come out with a bit of extra cash, and a lot of extra experience!
Ready to boost your income? Explore the best student-friendly earning opportunities with Prograd.
