How To Make Extra Money As An International Student in The UK

Are you an international student studying in the UK and looking for ways to make some extra money? With tuition fees on the rise, finding ways to supplement your income is becoming increasingly important. 

Thankfully, there are plenty of opportunities available for international students in the UK to make some extra cash. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most popular and effective ways to make money as an international student in the UK. So, if you are looking for some additional sources of income, keep reading to find out how you can make extra money while studying in the UK.

Part-time Jobs for International Students

As an international student in the UK, it can be challenging to manage expenses, especially when you have to pay tuition fees, accommodation, and other living costs. However, there are several part-time job opportunities available for international students to earn some extra money and gain valuable work experience. Here are some of the popular part-time jobs for international students in the UK:

1. Hospitality and Catering: Many restaurants, cafes, and hotels offer part-time jobs for international students, such as waiters, bar staff, and kitchen assistants. You can also apply for seasonal jobs during peak tourist seasons, such as summer and winter.
2. Retail: Retail jobs, such as sales assistant or customer service, are also a popular choice for international students. Many retail stores, supermarkets, and shopping centers offer part-time jobs with flexible hours.
3. Customer Support: If you are good at communication and problem-solving, you can apply for part-time customer support jobs, such as call center agents or online chat support.
4. Admin and Office Support: Many companies offer part-time jobs for international students, such as administrative assistants or data entry clerks. You can also look for virtual assistant jobs that allow you to work from home.
5. Campus Jobs: Many universities offer part-time jobs for international students, such as library assistants, campus ambassadors, or student support staff.

When applying for part-time jobs, make sure to check the employer’s eligibility criteria for international students, as some jobs may require you to have a work visa or a national insurance number. Also, keep in mind that your studies should be your top priority, so make sure to choose a job that allows you to balance your work and study commitments.

Overall, part-time jobs can be a great way for international students to earn some extra money, gain work experience, and improve their English language skills. With the right mindset and dedication, you can find a part-time job that fits your interests and schedule.

Freelancing Opportunities

Freelancing can be a great way for international students to make some extra money on their own schedule. There are several websites where you can offer your services as a freelancer, such as Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer. Some of the most popular freelancing categories include writing, graphic design, web development, and digital marketing. Here are some tips to get started as a freelancer:

1. Choose a niche: Consider what skills you have to offer and choose a niche that you are passionate about and can specialize in. This will help you stand out from other freelancers.
2. Build your portfolio: Create a portfolio that showcases your work and highlights your skills. You can use websites like Behance or Dribbble to showcase your portfolio.
3. Set competitive rates: Do some research to see what other freelancers in your niche are charging and set competitive rates.
4. Be proactive: Reach out to potential clients and send proposals for projects you are interested in.

Remember, freelancing can be competitive, so it may take some time to build up a client base and start earning money. However, with perseverance and hard work, freelancing can be a rewarding and flexible way to earn some extra cash as an international student in the UK.

Tutoring and Language Exchange

International students are often highly proficient in their native languages, making them a valuable asset for others looking to learn or improve their language skills. Tutoring or offering language exchange services can be a great way to earn extra money while also practicing and improving your own language skills. Here are some ways to get started:

1. Advertise your services on campus notice boards or online platforms such as Craigslist, Gumtree, or Tutorful.
2. Join language exchange groups on social media or online language exchange websites, where you can offer your services and find language exchange partners.
3. Contact local language schools or organizations and inquire about tutoring opportunities. Many language schools offer part-time positions to fluent speakers of the language they teach.
4. Create a profile on language exchange websites such as italki or Tandem, where you can offer your services as a language tutor and get paid for your time.
5. Offer your services to local businesses, such as restaurants or hotels, that cater to an international clientele. They may be interested in hiring you to teach their employees the basics of your language.

Tutoring or offering language exchange services not only helps you earn extra income but also improves your own language skills and cultural understanding. It’s a win-win situation for both parties involved!

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Selling Items Online

Selling items online is a great way for international students to make some extra cash. You can sell items you no longer need or items you’ve created. Some popular platforms for selling items online in the UK include eBay, Gumtree, and Depop. 

Before you start selling, it’s important to do your research and see what similar items are selling for. Take good quality photos of your item and write a detailed description. This will increase the chances of your item selling quickly and for a good price.

If you have any unique skills such as graphic design or knitting, you can also consider selling handmade items on platforms such as Etsy. These platforms can be great for building a loyal customer base and potentially turning your hobby into a small business. 

Another option is to participate in university flea markets or second-hand sales, which can be a fun and easy way to sell your items. Just make sure to check with your university for guidelines and regulations before selling at these events.

Overall, selling items online is a simple way for international students to make some extra cash and declutter their space at the same time. So why not give it a try?

Paid Online Surveys

One great way to make extra money as an international student in the UK is by taking paid online surveys. This method is simple, flexible, and requires little effort. Companies are constantly seeking feedback and opinions on their products or services, and they are willing to pay for it. You can sign up for free on survey websites and start earning money by completing online surveys.

However, it’s important to be cautious when signing up for paid online surveys. Some survey websites are scams, and you may end up wasting your time without receiving any payment. To avoid this, it’s recommended to research the websites before signing up and read reviews from other users.

Some popular survey websites for international students in the UK include Toluna, Swagbucks, and Vindale Research. These websites offer various surveys on different topics, including shopping habits, technology usage, and political opinions. 

Some surveys can take up to 30 minutes to complete, while others can be done in just a few minutes.

Each survey usually pays a small amount, typically ranging from 50p to £5. However, if you’re consistent in completing surveys, you can earn a decent amount of money each month. Some websites also offer bonuses and rewards for frequent users.

Paid online surveys are an excellent way to earn some extra money as an international student in the UK. However, they should not be relied upon as a primary source of income. It’s essential to balance your time between studies, part-time jobs, and other activities.

FAQS

How much can international students earn in a part-time job in the UK? 

The earnings of international students in part-time jobs in the UK can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of job, location, and hours worked. The national minimum wage for individuals aged 21 and over is £8.91 per hour. However, it’s important to note that international students are typically subject to certain restrictions on the number of hours they can work during term-time. The maximum is typically 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during academic breaks.

What are side hustles for students in the UK? 

There are various side hustles that students in the UK can explore to earn additional income, such as: 

1. Freelancing in areas like graphic design, writing, or web development. 
2. Tutoring or teaching assistance for subjects they excel in. 
3. Providing services like pet sitting, house cleaning, or gardening. 
4. Participating in paid surveys or online market research. 
5. Starting an online business or selling products on platforms like Etsy or eBay. 
6. Offering services as a personal trainer or fitness instructor. 
7. Participating in gig economy platforms like Uber or Deliveroo.

How much can a student earn in the UK per day? 

The amount a student can earn in the UK per day varies depending on the type of job, hourly wage, and hours worked. Since there is a maximum limit of 20 hours per week during term-time, the daily earnings would depend on the number of hours worked each day and the hourly wage.

What benefits can international students get in the UK? 

International students in the UK may be eligible for certain benefits, such as healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS) if they are studying for six months or more. Additionally, some universities offer support services, scholarships, or grants specifically for international students. 

It’s important to check with your university’s international student office or research specific benefits available to international students.

How much can an international student earn in the UK per month? 

Similar to the daily earnings, the monthly earnings of international students in the UK vary based on factors like the type of job, hours worked, and wage rates. Since international students are typically limited to working 20 hours per week during term-time, the monthly earnings would depend on the number of hours worked and the hourly wage.

Conclusion

Being an international student in the UK can be a wonderful experience, but it can also come with its fair share of financial challenges. However, with the various opportunities listed above, you can easily make extra money while still maintaining your studies. The key to success in any of these avenues is to identify your skills, passions, and availability, and find the opportunities that fit. Whether it’s a part-time job, freelancing, or selling items online, you can supplement your income while building your skills and network. The most important thing is to maintain balance and not sacrifice your academics. With these tips, you can have the best of both worlds – financial stability and a great university experience.