13 Best Part Time Jobs for Students – Expert Tips Included

Looking for a flexible and well-paid job? Here, explore 13 expert-backed part-time roles for students like you. Let’s find your perfect fit!

Are you struggling with coursework, exams, and the cost of living? If you nod yes, you’re not alone. Many students the hunt for part-time jobs that don’t just pay the bills but also fit around their hectic schedules. But, how do you find the part time jobs that are flexible, rewarding, and fun?

This guide breaks down the 13 best part-time jobs tailored specifically for students. Here, you’ll discover options that align with your skills, availability, and financial needs. From customer service roles to remote freelancing gigs, we’ve got you covered with insights, salary ranges, and expert tips. 

So, you can make an informed choice and get hired faster. Let’s dive into the world of opportunities waiting for you!

Key Highlights

• Retail and barista jobs offer flexibility and teach essential customer service skills valued across many future careers.

• Tutoring and content writing are high-paying options for students strong in academics.

• Library and virtual assistant jobs suit organised students who prefer quiet tasks over fast-paced public-facing roles.

• Social media assistant roles are perfect for creative students with a marketing interest and a strong understanding of digital trends.

• Many part-time jobs come with extra perks like discounts, tips, and opportunities to grow within the company.

A List of 13 Best Part Time Jobs for Students

Taking up a part-time job during your college years isn’t just about earning extra cash. But it’s also about learning responsibility, time management, and gaining real-world experience. If you’re working in a cafe or freelancing online, these jobs can help build your confidence and resume. Moreover, the financial independence you gain can ease the pressure of tuition, rent, or other daily expenses.

However, juggling classes, a part-time job, and dissertation writing isn’t always easy. You might find yourself struggling to keep up, especially when your dissertation looms large. That’s why many students prefer to buy dissertations online from reliable academic writing services like The Academic Papers UK. Since these services save time and reduce stress, they’re also a smart investment to save your GPA.

Now, let’s explore the 13 best part time jobs for students that are popular among students in the UK and beyond. 

1: Retail Assistant

Retail jobs are often the first choice for students looking to earn while studying. You’ll find them in stores, supermarkets, and shopping malls. It’s one of the best part time jobs for students UK-wide due to its flexible shifts and weekend work options. Plus, it teaches essential skills like communication, teamwork, and customer service, which are transferable to any career path. 

So if you’re stacking shelves, assisting customers, or manning the till, you learn how to stay calm under pressure. It’s an experience that will serve you well in any future profession. Moreover, many retailers offer on-the-job training and internal growth opportunities, so there’s always room to grow.

Salary 

Most UK retail chains pay around £10-£12/hour, as listed by Sainsbury’s Careers.

Key Responsibilities

• Help customers with product questions and guide them toward the right purchase decisions.
• Restock merchandise on shelves neatly while checking inventory levels and expiry dates.
• Scan and process customer purchases at the till using the cash register or POS system.
• Keep the store clean, tidy, and organised to create a pleasant shopping experience.
• Support promotional setups by arranging banners, flyers, and featured product displays.

Furthermore, here is an expert tip: Choose large retail chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, or Marks & Spencer. They offer employee discounts and chances for advancement. This is considered one of the best part time jobs UK Reddit users often recommend for beginners.

2: Barista

If you love coffee and a lively environment, this one’s for you. Working at a coffee shop like Starbucks or Costa Coffee is among the best part-time jobs as they pay well with tips included. It helps develop your multitasking and interpersonal skills, and it can be surprisingly fun, especially if you enjoy socialising. 

Also, the ambience of a busy cafe can be energizing and may even spark some creative ideas while you’re on the job. Since many shops offer early morning or late-night shifts, it can fit well around your class schedule. Moreover, you often get free drinks or meals as a perk, which helps reduce your living expenses.

Salary

Baristas at places like Starbucks earn is average salary of £12.05 per hour, confirmed by Indeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare drinks quickly while following the store’s exact recipe instructions.
• Greet every customer with a smile and take orders clearly and politely.
• Restock coffee beans, milk, cups, and other supplies throughout the day.
• Clean tables, counters, and machines to maintain a tidy and safe environment.
• Handle cash or card payments at the till and give change accurately when needed.

Remember: Get trained in latte art or speciality coffee-making. It not only boosts your confidence but could also get you promoted faster. Among the best part time jobs London offers for students, this one definitely has a charm of its own.

3: Tutor

Tutoring is not only fulfilling but one of the best part time jobs UK. If you’re strong in a subject like Math, English, or Science, you can tutor younger students or even your peers. Online platforms make this job possible from the comfort of your dorm. 

Furthermore, tutoring sharpens your own understanding of the subject, which can help you in exams. You don’t have to limit yourself to academic skills like music, coding, or even languages that are in demand. This job not only pays well but also helps build a strong portfolio you can be proud of.

Salary

According to JobDoor, “Private tutors earn £30-£50+ per hour while experienced tutors earn around £80–£100 for expert-level sessions.”

Key Responsibilities

• Break down complex topics and explain them in easy-to-understand language for students.
• Create tailored lesson plans that match each student’s pace, level, and school syllabus.
• Track students’ progress regularly and adjust teaching methods based on performance.
• Provide helpful feedback after sessions and answer follow-up questions if needed.
• Build students’ confidence by offering encouragement, praise, and constructive corrections.

Moreover, the experts advise using platforms like MyTutor or Superprof to get started. Build a strong profile with reviews for long-term success. It’s truly one of the best part time jobs for students who enjoy helping others.

4: Freelance Content Writer

Do you have a way with words? Freelance writing is one of the best part-time jobs in London for students who are fluent in English. You can write blogs, academic research papers, product descriptions, or social media posts from anywhere, like campus, library, or even your favorite cafe. It offers the kind of freedom most jobs can’t, and if you’re consistent, it can even turn into a full-blown career. 

Furthermore, it strengthens your research, communication, and time-management skills. As your portfolio grows, so does your client base, leading to higher-paying gigs and repeat business.

Salary

Writers often charge £15–£50 per hour /project on Upwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Research assigned topics deeply and write well-structured, original content with clarity.
• Edit and proofread drafts to ensure they are free from grammar and spelling errors.
• Meet submission deadlines consistently while managing your time independently.
• Communicate with clients to understand content requirements and provide feedback clearly.
• Adapt writing tone and format to suit various industries like tech, education, or lifestyle.

Plus, create a portfolio and use websites like Fiverr or Upwork to showcase your skills. Strong niches include tech, education, and lifestyle. Among the best part time jobs that pay well, freelance writing ranks high for flexibility.

5: Delivery Driver

If you own a bike or a scooter, becoming a delivery driver for Uber Eats or Deliveroo could be one of the best part-time jobs London has to offer. It gives you autonomy, exercise, and flexible hours that are perfect for students who want to avoid desk jobs. 

Since you’re on the move, it’s a great way to explore the city and get to know your surroundings better. Plus, the tips can add up quickly, especially during busy hours. Many students enjoy the solo nature of this job, which offers a break from academic life.

Salary

Delivery drivers for Uber earn £11.90–£15/hour with tips.

Key Responsibilities

• Accept food orders through the delivery app and check for accuracy before heading out.
• Use maps to find the fastest routes and avoid traffic where possible.
• Deliver items to customers promptly while being courteous and respectful.
• Handle food packages carefully to prevent spills or damage during delivery.
• Manage your time wisely to complete multiple deliveries during peak hours efficiently.

Here is an expert tip that choose high-traffic areas during peak times (like evenings and weekends) to increase your earnings significantly. This job frequently tops the list of best part time jobs for students who enjoy staying active.

6: Library Assistant

For those who prefer quieter settings, working in a campus or public library is among the best part time jobs for students. It helps you to get your work done during slow periods while earning money. It’s especially ideal for book lovers and those who enjoy a peaceful environment. 

Moreover, it helps develop attention to detail and organizational skills useful in any profession. Working in a library also connects you to academic resources that add extra value to your university experience.

Salary 

The average hourly rate of a library assistant is £11-£12/hour.

Key Responsibilities

• Check in and check out books accurately using the library management software system.
• Assist visitors in finding resources and using catalog search terminals or databases.
• Reorganize and shelf returned books based on the library’s classification system.
• Maintain silence and monitor noise levels in the reading and study areas.
• Help with administrative tasks such as labelling, book covering, or setting up displays.

Hence, build rapport with staff, and you might get access to extended resources and study spaces. It’s truly one of the best part-time jobs UK students can enjoy in a calm setting.

7: Social Media Assistant

In the digital age, social media isn’t just for scrolling, but it’s a skill. Many small businesses look for students to manage their social media handles. This is one of the best part time jobs for creative students with an eye for design and engagement. 

Since businesses often operate with lean teams, you can gain a lot of responsibility fast, including managing campaigns and analyzing results. This makes it ideal for those studying marketing, communications, or design.

Salary

According to Reed, the social media assistant role typically pays £10–£15/hour 

Key Responsibilities

• Create engaging posts using visuals and captions that align with the brand’s voice.
• Schedule content using platforms like Buffer or Hootsuite to ensure regular posting.
• Reply to comments and direct messages to build community and customer trust.
• Track engagement metrics to evaluate what type of content performs best.
• Design simple graphics with tools like Canva for promotions or daily posts.

Hence, learn basic tools like Canva, Buffer, and Meta Business Suite to make your workflow smoother and impress potential employers. Among the best part-time jobs UK Reddit users suggest for marketing students, this one stands out.

8: Waiter/Waitress

Restaurants and cafes always need reliable staff, making this one of the best part time jobs UK for students. It helps build your resilience, multitasking, and time management skills plus, tips can boost your earnings. The job is fast-paced and physically demanding, but the camaraderie among team members makes it enjoyable. Moreover, the varied shifts can often work around your class schedule.

Salary

Waiter/Waitress base pay is often £13-£14/hour, and tips, according to Indeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Welcome customers, take food and drink orders, and clarify special dietary needs.
• Bring orders to the tables promptly and ensure accuracy and presentation are perfect.
• Clear tables, wipe surfaces, and reset them quickly between guests.
• Manage customer bills and process payments using card readers or cash.
• Stay upbeat and helpful even during busy periods or customer complaints.

Plus, high-end restaurants tend to tip better, so go for those if you have some experience or charm to spare. No doubt, a waiter is among the best part time jobs that pay well and teach you real-world skills.

9: Event Staff

London and other major cities always host events, expos, and festivals. As a student, joining an event staffing agency gives you access to short-term gigs that don’t clash with your study schedule. These are considered the best part time jobs for those who love variety and networking. You get to meet interesting people, build your communication skills, and even enjoy the events you’re working at.

Salary

Event Staff are expected to earn around £9–£15/hour, as advertised by event agencies like Arc UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up tables, booths, or stands before the event begins and dismantle afterwards.
• Greet guests and direct them to appropriate areas or provide event information.
• Check tickets or wristbands at entrances while maintaining crowd control.
• Assist event coordinators with logistics or troubleshooting during the event.
• Maintain high energy and professionalism even during long and busy shifts.

Here are the expert tips: wear comfortable shoes and stay energetic event days can be long but the experiences and contacts are worth it. One of the best part time jobs London students go for when they want something outside the norm.

10: Virtual Assistant

This is one of the best part-time jobs UK for students who want to work remotely. As a VA, you assist business owners or executives with daily tasks like managing calendars, emails, or even booking travel. Therefore, it’s perfect for highly organized individuals who prefer administrative tasks over customer-facing roles. The flexibility and variety make this one of the best part time jobs that pay well and allow skill growth.

Salary

Virtual Assistant VA roles pay between £12.50–£20/hour, per listings on Reed.

Key Responsibilities

• Schedule meetings, reminders, and appointments using shared calendars and software tools.
• Manage inboxes by replying to emails or forwarding important messages to the right person.
• Draft reports or presentations using Microsoft Word, Excel, or Google Docs.
• Conduct online research and summarize findings in an easy-to-read format.
• Help with light bookkeeping or social media tasks depending on the client’s needs.

Remember the expert’s tip: Highlight your organizational skills on LinkedIn and join freelancing platforms to find long-term VA gigs. This is definitely one of the best part time jobs UK students can do from anywhere with Wi-Fi.

11: Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

If you’re an animal lover, this is one of the best part time jobs that pays well and brings joy. Whether it’s walking dogs in the park or feeding cats while their owners are away, this role offers flexible hours. Since most gigs are booked in advance, you can plan them around your classes with ease. Plus, bonding with pets is a great way to unwind after a long day of lectures.

This job is especially popular in residential areas and on platforms like Rover or Tailster. You don’t need a degree to care for pets, just reliability, a kind heart, and a love for animals. Pet owners are often repeat clients, so good service can lead to steady work. Moreover, many students say it’s therapeutic compared to traditional jobs.

Salary

According to Indeed, the average annual salary sits around £26,032 in the UK£10 – £18 per hour.

Key Responsibilities

• Walk dogs according to the schedule and keep them safe during outings and park visits.
• Feed pets on time and refill water bowls to maintain their regular daily routine.
• Administer basic medication if required and instructed by the pet owner.
• Keep the client updated with pet photos, videos, and quick reports on behavior.
• Clean up after pets and follow any household care instructions given in advance.

Here is an expert tip: offer evening or weekend availability as these are peak times when most pet owners seek help. Many consider this among the best part time jobs UK Reddit users love for its calm, rewarding vibe.

12: Campus Ambassador

Being a campus ambassador is one of the best part time jobs for students who are outgoing, persuasive, and well-connected. Essentially, you represent a brand, service, or platform at your university. If you enjoy networking so this role is a win-win.

You’ll usually promote through events, flyers, or your social media, and the best part? It doesn’t feel like “work” in the traditional sense. Since you’re based on campus, you won’t waste time commuting, and your social skills get a boost. Many companies also provide training and merch, which makes it even more fun and rewarding.

Salary

University schemes like Kent pay £11.66–£13.99 p/h for under‑21s or over‑21s.

Key Responsibilities

• Spread awareness by talking to fellow students and handing out promotional materials.
• Represent the brand at campus events and answer basic questions about products or services.
• Share campaigns on your social media channels to encourage signups or purchases.
• Collect feedback from students and share useful insights with the brand’s marketing team.
• Maintain a positive image of the company through professional representation.

Moreover, the experts advise to join programs from well-known brands like Red Bull, Bumble, or Amazon. They offer perks and resume-worthy experience. Among the best part time jobs in London for students who are social butterflies, this one’s a favorite.

13: Data Entry Clerk

Data entry might not sound glamorous, but it’s easily one of the best part time jobs UK students go for. Especially if you’re detail-oriented and prefer a solo work environment. You’ll be inputting information into spreadsheets, often for market research firms, universities, or admin-heavy companies.

Since accuracy is key, this role teaches you focus, patience, and consistency skills that’ll serve you well in any future job. The best part? It’s usually remote, so you can work from your dorm or library in your own time. Some companies even offer part-time internships in data entry, giving you real office experience.

Salary

Select.co.uk shows entry-level pay from £21,000, mid-level at £25k–30k, and senior roles up to £35k.

Key Responsibilities

• Input data from various sources into spreadsheets or internal company software systems accurately.
• Double-check for errors or inconsistencies before final submission to maintain clean records.
• Organize documents logically and ensure they’re stored securely for future reference.
• Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive or personal client or employee information.
• Report completed tasks to the supervisor and seek clarification if any data seems unclear.

Remember: use tools like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to speed up your work. Being quick and accurate often leads to more hours or permanent offers. Hence, it’s counted among the best part time jobs for students who enjoy structure and solo work.

How to Find the Best Part Time Job?

Looking for the best part-time job while juggling college? You’ve got this! Here are some student-friendly tips to help you land a side hustle that actually works for you:

1: Align with Your Schedule

You’re balancing classes, study sessions, and maybe even club activities. So pick a job that flexes with your timetable. Whether it’s weekend shifts or online gigs, flexibility is key.

2: Build on Your Strengths

Love writing, coding, or helping others learn? Use what you’re already good at. Tutors, content creators, or web developers often earn more and enjoy what they do.

3: Tap into On-Campus Opportunities

Your university has hidden gems like being a research assistant, lab helper, library assistant, or peer mentor. These roles are not only flexible, but they look great on your CV.

4: Go Digital: Freelance & Gig Work

Thanks to platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, you can freelance in graphic design, social media, or virtual assistance. Since you control your projects and hours, it’s easy to scale up or down depending on workload.

5: Network with Purpose

Chat with professors, classmates, or alumni; you never know where a part-time opportunity might pop up. Plus, if you’ve impressed someone in class, they might just recommend you.

6: Value Growth & Experience

Sure, money matters, but don’t overlook jobs that build skills or offer career connections. A part-time role that boosts your future opportunities is worth it in the long run. However, if you find a job along with complex research work, you may get overwhelmed. Like you, many students find themselves short on time and energy when it comes to dissertation writing. 

Therefore, they consult trusted dissertation writing companies for help. Since these services help you from planning to final submission of dissertation so they will be a lifesaver for your stressful academic moments.

What Is the Highest Paying Part-Time Job?

When you’re hunting for top pay per hour, be sure to dig deep. Private tutoring, especially in STEM subjects or languages, is the highest paying on a per-hour basis. You might earn anywhere from $20 to $50+ per hour, depending on your expertise, location, and the subject. 

For example, if you are strong in calculus or programming, you could easily command $30–$40 an hour, sometimes even more for specialized fields like engineering or test prep.

Moreover, if you’ve built skills in web development, graphic design, or content writing, freelance gigs can also fetch high rates, similar to tutoring. Therefore, if you compare the two, tutoring in high-demand areas usually edges out other part-time options in income potential. Since you can schedule around your classes and ramp up your hours during breaks, it gives you both flexibility and cash, exactly what a busy student needs.

 

1. What Is the Highest Paying Part-Time Job?

You might be surprised, but private tutoring in STEM or languages tops the list. In the UK, private tutors earn £30-£50+ per hour, and experienced tutors around £80-£100 for expert-level sessions. So you can set your rates and schedule, so you’re in control. However, if you’re tech-savvy, freelance project management or part-time development can fetch similar high hourly pay. Therefore, tutoring remains king, but only if you’re really skilled!

 

2. What Is the Highest Paying Part-Time Job in the UK?

You know it: private tutoring remains top-earning in the UK. As tutors earn up to £50 an hour, sometimes even more for one-on-one STEM or language coaching. Moreover, according to JobDoor, “Freelance project managers can make £35-£70 per hour, depending on industry and expertise.” So, if you’re at uni and great at maths or coding, tutoring is almost unbeatable.

 

3. Which Part-Time Jobs Are in Demand in the UK?

You’ll find delivery drivers, warehouse operatives, and healthcare or care workers topping current demand. Additionally, personal trainers, childcare assistants, and people in hospitality (like baristas or servers) are also in hot demand. Since the gig economy is growing, freelance tech roles like AI specialists are also increasing. 

 

4. What Is the Best Company to Work for Part-Time?

You want a stellar part-time employer? Consider university roles like tutoring or research assistant jobs. Since they offer flexibility, decent pay, and academic perks. Moreover, big names like Just Eat, Amazon, or Tesco often top part-time employer lists with reliable schedules and decent hourly rates up to £13-£15. Therefore, if you value structure and brand reputation, stick with established names or your own uni.

 

5. What Is the Number 1 Company to Work for in UK?

The top UK employer depends on the sector. However, for students, your own university often provides the best part-time conditions, flexible hours, relevance to your studies, and a supportive environment. If you’re after retail or delivery, Amazon and Tesco consistently lead in part-time hiring volume and pay. Hence, that familiar campus gig might be unbeatable when you want convenience.

 

Final Words

Choosing the best part time jobs job as a student is about learning real-world skills and growing your network. If you’re writing blog posts or tutoring your peers, each of these roles offers more than a paycheck. They offer a head start in life. The best part-time jobs for students are those that blend flexibility, fair pay, and valuable experience. And luckily, you’ve got plenty of options across the UK. 

So, think about what suits your strengths, your schedule, and your future goals. And remember, every shift is a stepping stone to something bigger. Your part-time job today could open doors you never expected tomorrow. Ready to land your perfect role? Let the job hunt begin!