Are you an international student studying in the UK? If so, you're likely facing unique challenges when finding a part-time job. Between adapting to a new culture, language barriers, and visa restrictions, finding employment that fits your needs can be challenging.

However, don't lose hope just yet. In this post, we've gathered the 12 highest-paying part-time jobs for international students in the UK. These jobs will not only help you cover your expenses but also provide valuable work experience that will set you apart in the job market.

Importance of High-Paying Part-Time Jobs for International Students

Why is finding a high-paying part-time job so important, you may ask? For one, the living expenses of an international student can be higher than those of domestic students. A well-paying job can ease the financial burden and allow you to focus on your studies.

Moreover, a part-time job can provide invaluable work experience and the opportunity to develop essential skills such as communication, time management, and customer service. This experience can give you a leg up when applying for internships or full-time jobs after graduation.

So, without further ado, let's dive into the list of the 12 highest-paying part-time jobs for international students in the UK. These jobs span various industries, including retail, hospitality, and more. 

Top 12 Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in the UK for International Students

1. Tutoring. 

Tutoring is an excellent option for international students who excel in a particular subject and enjoy teaching others. As a tutor, you'll be responsible for helping students with their coursework and answering any questions they may have.

The average hourly pay rate for tutoring is around £20 per hour, making it one of the highest-paying part-time jobs for international students. However, the pay rate can vary depending on the subject and level you're tutoring.

To become a tutor, you must have a strong understanding of the subject you wish to teach and excellent communication skills. Many tutoring positions require previous tutoring or teaching experience, but this is not always the case. It's also important to note that you may need to pass background checks and obtain a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificate to work with children.

Check with your university's tutoring or academic support center to find tutoring jobs. You can also look for opportunities on online tutoring platforms like Tutorful or MyTutor. Finally, consider advertising your services through social media or word-of-mouth to find clients.

2. Hospitality and catering industry

The hospitality and catering industry is another popular option for international students seeking part-time jobs in the UK. This industry includes many positions, from waiting tables to working as a chef or bartender.

The average hourly pay rate for hospitality and catering jobs varies depending on the specific position and location, but it typically ranges from £8 to £12 per hour. Sometimes, you may also earn tips on top of your hourly wage.

To work in the hospitality and catering industry, you should have excellent customer service skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Check job boards such as Indeed, Caterer.com, and Gumtree to find hospitality and catering jobs. You can also look for opportunities in local restaurants and cafes and through catering agencies. Finally, consider contacting your university's catering department to see if they have any openings.

Keep in mind that the hospitality and catering industry can be demanding. Still, it's a great way to gain valuable work experience and develop essential skills that will serve you well in the future. 

3. Retail

Another popular part-time job option for international students in the UK is retail. Working in retail typically involves customer service, stocking shelves, and handling transactions.

The average hourly pay rate for retail jobs in the UK is around £8 to £10 per hour, though this can vary depending on the location and specific position. Some employers may also offer additional benefits such as staff discounts or commissions.

To work in retail, you must have strong communication skills, the ability to work in a team, and a friendly and approachable demeanor. You may also need to be comfortable standing for long periods and handling cash and credit card transactions.

To find retail jobs, check job boards such as Indeed, Monster, and TotalJobs. You can also look for opportunities in local shopping centers and high street stores. Many retailers also offer seasonal or temporary positions during busy periods such as Christmas or summer sales.

When applying for retail jobs, make sure to highlight your customer service skills and any previous retail experience you may have. 

4. Translation services 

Translation services can be an excellent part-time job option if you're bilingual or multilingual. As a translator, you'll be responsible for translating written or spoken content from one language to another.

The average hourly pay rate for translation services varies depending on the language and level of expertise required, but it ranges from £20 to £30 per hour. You may also have the opportunity to work on a freelance basis, which can offer more flexibility in terms of hours and workload.

To work as a translator, have excellent language skills in at least two languages and a strong understanding of grammar and syntax in both languages. 

To find translation services jobs, start by checking job boards such as ProZ.com, TranslatorCafe.com, and Upwork. You can also look for opportunities in local language schools, translation agencies, or through your university's language department.

When applying for translation jobs, make sure to highlight your language skills and any previous translation or interpreting experience you may have. 

5. Administrative assistant

Administrative assistant roles can be a great part-time job option if you're organized and efficient. As an administrative assistant, you'll be responsible for a range of tasks, such as answering phones, responding to emails, scheduling appointments, and filing paperwork.

The average hourly pay rate for administrative assistant jobs in the UK is around £10 to £12 per hour. You need excellent organizational skills, multitasking ability, and strong communication skills to work as an administrative assistant. You should also be proficient in basic computer skills such as Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

Check job boards like Reed, Indeed, and LinkedIn for administrative assistant jobs. You can also look for opportunities in local businesses or through recruitment agencies.

Meanwhile, when applying for administrative assistant jobs, highlight your organizational and communication skills and any previous administrative experience you may have. 

6. Freelance writing and editing

Do you have a passion for writing and a firm grasp of English? Then freelance writing and editing is for you. As a freelance writer or editor, you'll be responsible for creating or refining written content for various clients and industries.

Freelance writers can expect to earn anywhere from £15 to £50 per hour, depending on the project and client.

For starters, you must have excellent writing skills, a strong grasp of grammar and syntax, and the ability to meet deadlines. You may also need previous writing or editing experience and a portfolio of writing samples to showcase your work.

You can find freelance writing and editing jobs by checking job boards such as Freelancer, Upwork, and Fiverr. Also, strive to network with other writers and editors and market your services through your own website or social media channels.

On the other hand, when applying for freelance writing and editing jobs, highlight your writing experience and expertise and any relevant writing samples you may have. Consider tailoring your pitches or proposals to each specific client or project, and be prepared to negotiate rates and deadlines.

7. Social media management

Social media management is a great part-time job option if you're social media savvy and interested in marketing and communications. As a social media manager, you'll create and schedule social media content, engage with followers, and analyze performance metrics.

The average hourly pay rate for social media management jobs in the UK is around £10 to £15 per hour. Meanwhile, to work as a social media manager, you must have a good understanding of social media platforms and strong communication and organizational skills. You may also need to have some basic design skills, such as the ability to create simple graphics or edit images.

To find social media management jobs, start by checking job boards such as LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Indeed. You can also reach out to local businesses and offer your social media management services or look for opportunities through freelance platforms such as Upwork or Fiverr.

8. Delivery services

As a delivery driver or courier, you're responsible for picking up and delivering packages or food orders to customers' homes or businesses. Average hourly pay rate ranges between £10 to £12 depending on the specific company and type of delivery.

About getting started, you may need a valid driver's license, especially if you'll be driving a vehicle or a good-quality bike. You must also have a good sense of direction and be comfortable using GPS navigation tools.

In addition, some delivery services jobs may require your own vehicle or bicycle, and you may need insurance and an up-to-date MOT certificate if you're using a car or van.

To find delivery services jobs, start by checking job boards such as Indeed or Reed.co.uk, or look for opportunities through gig economy platforms such as Uber Eats or Deliveroo. Also, consider contacting local restaurants or retailers offering delivery services and inquire about job opportunities.

Meanwhile, obtaining a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is essential to work as a professional delivery driver.

9. Market research and survey 

Are you analytical, detail-oriented, and enjoy working with data? Market research and survey is the ideal part-time job for you. As a market research interviewer or survey administrator, you'll be responsible for collecting data from consumers or businesses to help companies make informed decisions about their products or services.

The average hourly pay rate for market research and survey jobs in the UK is around £9 to £12 per hour. But to work in this industry, you may need strong communication and organizational skills and an ability to work independently and follow guidelines. Many jobs in this field may also require you to have access to a computer and high-speed internet.

In addition, some market research and survey jobs may require you to have a background in marketing, statistics, or social sciences or to have completed a relevant degree or certification.

To find market research and survey jobs, check job boards such as Indeed or LinkedIn or look for opportunities through market research firms such as Ipsos MORI or YouGov. You can also sign up for paid online survey sites like Toluna or Swagbucks to earn extra cash in your spare time.

10. Graduate Teaching Assistant

Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) is an excellent part-time job opportunity for international students looking to earn a decent income while pursuing their studies in the UK. 

As a GTA, you'll be responsible for assisting professors and lecturers with various academic tasks, such as marking assignments, conducting tutorials, and preparing teaching materials. The hourly rate for a GTA in the UK varies depending on the university and subject, but according to the National Union of Students, you can expect to earn an average of £9.50 to £14.50 per hour.

So, how can you find this kind of part-time job? Your first step should be to check your university's job board or job portal, where you can find a list of available part-time jobs for students. You can also reach out to your department and see if they have any open positions. Networking with your peers and professors can also be an effective way to discover part-time job opportunities in your field.

It's worth noting that some universities may pay higher rates for teaching in-demand subjects like Maths, Science, and Engineering. Therefore, it's essential to keep an eye out for opportunities in your area of expertise.

11. Pet care services

Working as a pet care provider can be a fun and rewarding part-time job if you're an animal lover. As a pet care provider, you could offer a wide range of services, such as dog walking, pet sitting, or grooming services.

The average hourly pay rate for pet care services in the UK is around £8 to £15 per hour. Some pet care providers who offer specialized services, such as dog training or pet behavior consultations, can command even higher pay rates.

To work as a pet care provider, you'll need to have a genuine love for animals and the ability to handle different types of pets and their unique needs. You should also be comfortable working independently and have good communication skills for interacting with pet owners.

Depending on the type of pet care services you provide, you may need certain qualifications or certifications, such as pet first aid or dog grooming certification. Some pet care providers may also need to be licensed and insured, depending on their location and the services they offer.

To find pet care jobs, start by networking with local pet owners and pet-related businesses in your area, such as pet stores or veterinary clinics. You can also create a profile on pet care platforms such as Rover or Care.com, which connect pet owners with pet care providers in their area.

When applying for pet care jobs, be sure to highlight any relevant qualifications or experience you have, as well as your love for animals and your ability to provide quality care. Be prepared to provide references or undergo a background check, especially if you'll be working with pets in the owners' homes.

Overall, working as a pet care provider can be a flexible and enjoyable part-time job option for international students who love animals and want to earn a competitive hourly pay rate.

12. Fitness instructor

If you're passionate about fitness and enjoy helping others achieve their fitness goals, working as a fitness instructor could be a great part-time job. As a fitness instructor, you would lead group exercise classes or provide personal training services to clients.

The average hourly pay rate for fitness instructors in the UK is around £10 to £20 per hour, depending on the type of services you provide and your level of experience. Some fitness instructors specializing in niche areas, such as yoga or pilates, can command even higher pay rates.

To work as a fitness instructor, you'll need to have a strong background in fitness and exercise, as well as good communication and motivational skills for leading group classes or working one-on-one with clients. You may also need certification in a specific fitness area, such as group exercise instruction or personal training, which can be obtained through organizations like the National Academy of Sports Medicine or the American Council on Exercise.

When looking for fitness instructor jobs, check with local gyms, fitness centers, or community centers offering fitness classes. You can also create a profile on online fitness platforms like ClassPass or TrainAway, which connect fitness instructors with clients in their area.

When applying for fitness instructor jobs, be sure to highlight your fitness qualifications and experience, as well as your ability to motivate and inspire clients. It's also important to be punctual and reliable, as fitness classes often have a set schedule, and you'll be expected to be there on time.

Conclusion

It's important to remember that networking, building a solid resume and cover letter, using job search websites and resources, and understanding visa restrictions and work hours are key to finding and securing high-paying part-time jobs.

As an international student, maximizing your earning potential while studying in the UK is essential. By exploring various job opportunities and utilizing the tips outlined in this article, you can make the most of your time in the UK and gain valuable work experience.

This article was put together by the Content team at Pay4Me App. Pay4Me is a cross-border payment platform that helps international students make cross-border payments such as immigration fees, WES, SEVIS, applications, tuition, and more.