Are you a UK university student looking to make some extra cash during your holidays? Whether you're saving for next term's expenses, funding a summer trip, or just want some financial breathing room, finding the right part-time job during your break can make all the difference. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the best student side hustles available across the UK, helping you earn money while still enjoying your well-deserved time off from lectures and essays.
From traditional retail positions to modern gig economy opportunities, we've got you covered with practical advice, realistic earning expectations, and insider tips to help you secure the perfect holiday job that fits your schedule and skills.
Why Working During University Holidays Makes Sense
Taking on part-time work during your university breaks isn't just about padding your bank account, though that's certainly a major benefit. Many students find that holiday jobs offer valuable real-world experience that complements their academic studies. You'll develop professional skills like time management, customer service, and teamwork that employers value highly after graduation.
The financial pressure of university life is real. Between accommodation costs, textbooks, social activities, and daily expenses, most students struggle to make their maintenance loan or parental support stretch far enough. A part-time job during the Christmas break, Easter holidays, or summer vacation can provide that crucial financial cushion.
Did You Know? According to recent surveys, over 60% of UK university students work during their holidays to support themselves financially. The average student earns between £1,500 and £3,000 during summer holidays alone, depending on hours worked and job type.
Beyond the money, holiday work helps you build a professional network. The connections you make in even seemingly simple jobs can open doors later. That supervisor at the bookshop might know someone hiring in your field after graduation, or your colleague in retail might become a future business partner.
Best Retail Jobs for University Students
Retail positions remain one of the most accessible and popular choices for students seeking holiday work. The sector actively recruits during peak shopping seasons, particularly around Christmas and summer sales periods. Let's explore what retail work entails and why it might be perfect for you.
High Street Shop Assistant
Working as a shop assistant on the high street gives you front-line customer service experience. You'll help customers find products, process transactions, maintain store displays, and sometimes handle stock management. Most positions pay the National Minimum Wage, which is £10.42 per hour for those aged 21 and over, or £7.55 per hour for 18 to 20-year-olds.
Typical Earnings: Shop Assistant
Hourly Rate: £10.42 - £12.00
Weekly Earnings (30 hours): £312.60 - £360
4-Week Holiday Period: £1,250 - £1,440
Where to Apply: Store websites, Indeed, CV Library, in-store recruitment
Major retailers like Marks & Spencer, Next, Primark, and H&M hire hundreds of temporary staff each holiday season. They typically start advertising positions 6-8 weeks before peak periods. The application process usually involves an online form followed by a group interview or assessment day.
Supermarket Staff
Supermarkets offer more variety in roles compared to fashion retail. You might work on checkouts, stock shelves, work in the bakery section, or help with online shopping orders. The work can be physically demanding, especially if you're stocking shelves or working in the warehouse, but it's usually straightforward once you learn the systems.
Companies like Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, and Morrisons regularly hire temporary staff. They often offer flexible shift patterns, which is brilliant if you want to balance work with spending time with family or friends during the holidays. Some supermarkets also provide staff discounts, which can help stretch your earnings further.
Pro Tip: Apply for supermarket positions in early October for Christmas work and late April for summer positions. Many supermarkets run their recruitment in waves, and early applications get priority consideration. Don't just apply online—walk into your local store and ask to speak with the hiring manager. This personal touch can make your application stand out.
Hospitality and Food Service Opportunities
The hospitality sector thrives during university holidays when tourism peaks and locals dine out more frequently. These positions often pay above minimum wage, especially if tips are involved, making them financially attractive for students.
Waiting Staff and Bartending
Working as a waiter, waitress, or bartender can be one of the most lucrative student jobs if you work in the right establishment. Restaurants, pubs, and bars desperately need extra staff during busy holiday periods. The work is fast-paced and can be stressful during rush periods, but many students enjoy the energetic atmosphere.
Basic pay typically starts at minimum wage, but tips can significantly boost your earnings. In busy city center restaurants or popular tourist areas, tips might add an extra £30-80 per shift. Some establishments pool tips and distribute them weekly, while others let you keep individual tips from your tables.
Earning Potential in Hospitality:
- Base hourly rate: £10.42 - £12.00
- Average tips per shift: £20 - £60
- Total potential per shift (6 hours): £82 - £132
- Weekend shifts often pay premium rates or attract better tips
Café and Coffee Shop Work
Coffee shops like Costa, Starbucks, Caffè Nero, and independent cafés provide a slightly more relaxed environment compared to restaurants. You'll prepare drinks, serve food, operate the till, and keep the space clean. These positions usually require some training, which employers provide.
The work appeals to students who prefer daytime hours rather than late evening shifts. Most coffee shops open early and close by early evening, meaning you can finish work with plenty of evening free. The social aspect is also appealing—you'll meet regular customers and develop relationships with your team.
Tutoring and Academic Support Services
If you excel in particular subjects, tutoring can be one of the highest-paying student jobs available. You're already immersed in academic life, so why not monetize your knowledge while helping younger students succeed?
Private Tutoring
Private tutoring involves working one-on-one or in small groups with students, typically covering GCSE or A-Level content. You can specialize in subjects you're strongest at—whether that's maths, sciences, English, languages, or humanities. The flexibility is outstanding since you often set your own schedule and rates.
Most private tutors charge between £15 and £30 per hour, depending on their experience, qualifications, and location. London and the Southeast tend to command higher rates. You can find students through tutoring websites like Tutorful, MyTutor, or First Tutors, or advertise locally through community boards, social media, and word of mouth.
Tutoring Income Breakdown
Typical Rate: £15 - £30 per hour
Sessions per Week: 10 - 15 hours
Weekly Income: £150 - £450
4-Week Holiday: £600 - £1,800
The beauty of tutoring is that much of it happens during evenings and weekends when students are free from school. This means you can combine tutoring with another daytime job if you want to maximize your earnings. Many university students build a regular client base during term time and continue working with those students during holidays.
Online Tutoring Platforms
Online tutoring has exploded in popularity, offering even more flexibility than in-person sessions. Platforms like GoStudent, Superprof, and Preply connect tutors with students globally. You can teach from anywhere with a stable internet connection, meaning you could work while visiting family or traveling.
The pay varies by platform and subject, but most online tutoring pays similarly to in-person work once you build a reputation and collect positive reviews. The main advantage is that you can fit sessions around your schedule without worrying about travel time.
Gig Economy and Delivery Jobs
The gig economy has transformed student employment by offering maximum flexibility and quick start times. These jobs let you work whenever you want, making them perfect for students who value control over their schedule.
Food Delivery Driving and Cycling
Services like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat are constantly seeking delivery riders and drivers. If you have a bicycle, moped, motorcycle, or car, you can sign up and start earning within days. The work involves collecting orders from restaurants and delivering them to customers.
Pay typically ranges from £10 to £15 per hour, depending on how busy your area is, time of day, and how efficiently you complete deliveries. Peak meal times—lunch and dinner—offer the highest earning potential. Some delivery apps pay per delivery, while others offer an hourly rate plus tips.
Important Considerations for Delivery Work: Make sure you have appropriate insurance if using a vehicle. Standard car or motorcycle insurance doesn't cover commercial food delivery. You'll need to inform your insurer and pay for business use coverage. For bicycle delivery, check if your contents insurance covers your phone and any delivery equipment.
Grocery Shopping and Parcel Delivery
Beyond food delivery, companies like Amazon Flex, Yodel, and DPD hire drivers for parcel delivery. These positions often pay better than food delivery, with rates ranging from £13 to £18 per hour. The work involves collecting parcels from distribution centers and delivering them to residential addresses.
For those without a vehicle, services like Gorillas, Getir, and Deliveroo Shopping hire warehouse pickers and cyclists. You'll pick grocery items in small urban warehouses and either pack them for delivery or deliver them yourself by bicycle. It's physical work but offers flexible scheduling.
Remote and Online Work Options
Working remotely gives you the freedom to earn money from anywhere, whether you're at home with family or staying at your university accommodation during holidays. These positions often require good internet and basic computer skills.
Customer Service and Call Center Roles
Many companies now hire remote customer service representatives, especially during peak seasons. You'll answer customer queries via phone, email, or live chat, helping solve problems and provide information. Companies like Amazon, Apple, and various UK retailers regularly advertise these positions.
Pay typically ranges from £10 to £14 per hour. Most positions provide full training, so you don't need previous experience. You will need a quiet workspace, reliable internet, a computer, and a headset. Some companies provide equipment, while others expect you to use your own.
For more detailed information about online opportunities, check out our comprehensive guide on online jobs for students and part-time work from home options.
Freelance Writing and Content Creation
If you have strong writing skills, freelance content writing can be highly profitable. Businesses constantly need blog posts, website content, social media posts, and marketing materials. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour connect freelancers with clients.
Beginners might start at £10-15 per article, but experienced writers can charge £30-80 per article or more, depending on length and complexity. The key is building a portfolio and collecting positive reviews. Many students find that freelance writing complements their studies since it improves their own academic writing skills.
Building Your Freelance Career: Start by creating profiles on multiple platforms. Offer competitive rates initially to build your portfolio and reviews. As you gain experience and positive feedback, gradually increase your rates. Consider specializing in topics related to your degree—this gives you credibility and makes the work more engaging.
Seasonal and Event-Based Work
Certain times of year create surges in demand for temporary staff. Understanding these patterns helps you plan your job search strategically.
Christmas and Winter Holiday Jobs
The period from November through January is retail's busiest season. Beyond traditional shop work, consider these seasonal opportunities:
- Gift Wrapping Services: Department stores and shopping centers hire gift wrappers during Christmas. It's a specialized skill that pays slightly above basic retail rates.
- Christmas Market Stalls: Cities across the UK host Christmas markets that need staff to run food stalls, serve drinks, and sell crafts. The work has a festive atmosphere and often includes staff perks like free food.
- Post Office and Courier Services: Royal Mail and private couriers need extra staff to handle the Christmas mail rush. Sorting jobs and delivery assistance are common temporary positions.
- Event Staff: Christmas parties, corporate events, and New Year celebrations all need catering staff, bartenders, and event support.
Summer Festival and Events Work
Summer brings music festivals, sporting events, and outdoor celebrations. These create unique employment opportunities that many students find exciting and fun.
Music festivals like Glastonbury, Reading, Leeds, and Download hire thousands of temporary staff. Positions include bar work, food service, security, ticket checking, and clean-up crews. The pay ranges from minimum wage to £12-15 per hour, and you often get free festival access during your time off.
Festival Work Benefits
Pay: £10.42 - £15 per hour
Perks: Free festival ticket/access, camping accommodation, staff meals
Typical Commitment: 3-7 days per festival
Best For: Students who enjoy live music and outdoor work
How to Find and Apply for Holiday Jobs
Securing the right position requires strategy and timing. Here's how to maximize your chances of landing a great holiday job.
When to Start Your Job Search
Timing is crucial. Start looking 4-6 weeks before your holiday period begins. For Christmas work, begin applications in early October. For summer positions, start in late April or early May. Easter break jobs should be sought in late February.
Early applications give you more choice and better positions. Popular employers receive hundreds of applications, and they often fill vacancies weeks before the holiday period starts. Don't wait until the week before your break to start looking.
Best Places to Search for Student Jobs
Use multiple channels to increase your chances:
- Online Job Boards: Indeed, Reed, Totaljobs, and CV Library list thousands of student positions. Set up job alerts with keywords like "student," "temporary," "seasonal," and "holiday work."
- University Career Services: Your university's career center maintains job boards specifically for students. These positions are often more flexible and understanding of student schedules.
- Company Websites: Apply directly through employer websites. This often gets your application seen faster than third-party job boards.
- Social Media: Follow companies on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Many announce vacancies on social media before advertising elsewhere.
- Student Facebook Groups: University-specific Facebook groups often have members sharing job opportunities and recommendations.
- Walk-In Applications: Some businesses, particularly independent shops and restaurants, prefer in-person applications. Dress professionally and bring copies of your CV.
Crafting Your Student CV
Your CV should be concise, professional, and highlight skills relevant to the position. Keep it to one page if you have limited work experience. Include your contact details, education, any work experience (even unpaid or volunteer work), skills, and interests that demonstrate transferable abilities.
Emphasize skills that employers value: communication, teamwork, reliability, problem-solving, and customer service. If you've done group projects at university, volunteered, played team sports, or held society positions, these demonstrate valuable skills.
CV Mistakes to Avoid: Don't include a photograph unless specifically requested. Avoid spelling and grammar errors—proofread multiple times. Don't lie about your availability or experience. Don't use an unprofessional email address. Don't include references unless asked.
Legal Considerations and Workers' Rights
Understanding your rights as a worker protects you from exploitation and ensures fair treatment. UK employment law applies to temporary and part-time workers just as it does to full-time permanent employees.
National Minimum Wage and Pay
Employers must pay at least the National Minimum Wage for your age group. As of 2024-25, the rates are:
- Age 21 and over: £10.42 per hour
- Age 18-20: £7.55 per hour
- Under 18: £5.28 per hour
- Apprentice rate: £5.28 per hour
Your employer should pay you on time and provide payslips showing your hours worked, pay rate, deductions, and National Insurance contributions. Keep these payslips as records.
Working Hours and Breaks
While there's no maximum working week for adults in the UK, you shouldn't work more than 48 hours per week on average over 17 weeks unless you choose to opt out. You're entitled to rest breaks during long shifts and days off between working weeks.
Specifically, you must receive a 20-minute rest break if you work more than six hours, 11 consecutive hours of rest per day, and at least 24 hours off per week. Don't let employers pressure you into working excessive hours that interfere with your health or studies.
National Insurance Number
You'll need a National Insurance number to work legally in the UK. If you don't have one, apply through the government website at gov.uk. The process takes a few weeks, so start early. Some employers let you begin work while your application processes, but you'll need to provide the number once you receive it.
For International Students: Check your visa conditions carefully. Student visas typically allow up to 20 hours of work per week during term time and full-time during official university holidays. Working beyond these hours can jeopardize your visa status. Always confirm with your university's international student office if you're unsure about your work entitlements.
Managing Taxes and Student Finances
Understanding how taxation works helps you keep more of your earnings and avoid surprises at tax time.
Do Students Pay Tax?
Whether you pay income tax depends on your total yearly earnings. Everyone has a personal allowance—the amount you can earn tax-free each year. For 2024-25, this is £12,570. If you only work during holidays and earn less than this amount annually, you won't owe income tax.
However, employers often deduct tax automatically through PAYE (Pay As You Earn) based on your tax code. If you're working temporarily and earn less than the personal allowance for the year, you may be on an emergency tax code, resulting in overpaid tax. You can claim this back from HMRC after the tax year ends in April.
Student Loan Repayments
Student loan repayments only begin once you're earning above the threshold for your plan type. For Plan 2 loans (most English students), you start repaying when earning over £27,295 per year. Holiday jobs rarely push you over this threshold, so you typically won't have student loan deductions from part-time work.
Managing Your Holiday Job Earnings
Make your earnings work harder by budgeting wisely. Consider these strategies:
- Save a portion of each paycheck before spending—aim for at least 20-30%
- Set clear financial goals (emergency fund, next term's rent, travel plans)
- Track your spending to identify where money goes
- Take advantage of student discounts to stretch your money further
- Consider opening a high-interest savings account for your earnings
Balancing Work, Rest, and Responsibilities
Your university holidays exist for good reason—you need time to rest, recharge, and prepare for the next term. Finding the right balance between earning money and taking care of yourself is essential.
How Many Hours Should You Work?
Most students find that 20-30 hours per week during holidays strikes a good balance. This leaves time for rest, social activities, and any coursework or preparation you need to do. Working 40+ hours per week might maximize earnings, but it can leave you exhausted when term resumes.
Be honest with yourself about your energy levels and commitments. If you have coursework deadlines early in the next term, you might work fewer hours during holidays to allow study time. If you're returning to a demanding course, prioritize rest over maximizing income.
Preventing Burnout: Schedule at least one full day off per week with no work commitments. Use this time for activities you enjoy, seeing friends and family, or simply resting. Don't feel guilty about taking time off—your mental health and wellbeing matter more than extra earnings.
Communicating with Employers
Be clear about your availability from the start. Let employers know exactly when you can work and when you need time off. Most employers appreciate honesty and will work with reasonable requests. If something changes—you need to attend a family event or have unexpected coursework—communicate early rather than calling in sick at the last minute.
Building Skills and Experience for Your Future Career
Even seemingly basic holiday jobs contribute to your professional development. Employers after graduation value real-world work experience alongside academic qualifications.
Transferable Skills from Holiday Work
Every job teaches valuable skills. Retail work develops customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Hospitality roles build resilience, teamwork, and the ability to work under pressure. Tutoring strengthens communication and patience. Delivery work teaches time management and independence.
Document these skills as you develop them. Keep notes about challenges you overcame, responsibilities you handled, and achievements you're proud of. You'll use these examples in future job applications and interviews.
Networking and References
Treat every job as a networking opportunity. Build positive relationships with supervisors and colleagues. These connections might help you later—through job recommendations, references, or industry insights. Always ask satisfied employers if they'll provide a reference before you leave.
If you're thinking about working abroad after graduation, our guide on graduate job search strategies in Australia and Europe provides valuable insights for international career planning.
Alternative Ways to Earn During Holidays
Traditional employment isn't the only way to boost your finances during university breaks. Consider these alternative approaches.
Selling Items You No Longer Need
Declutter and earn simultaneously by selling textbooks, clothes, electronics, and other items. Platforms like eBay, Depop, Vinted, and Facebook Marketplace make selling straightforward. Students often find they can earn £200-500 by selling items they no longer use.
Participating in Research Studies
Universities and research companies regularly seek participants for studies. Psychology departments, medical research facilities, and market research firms pay participants anywhere from £10 to £100+ depending on the study length and type. Check university noticeboards and websites like Prolific for opportunities.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
If you love animals, pet sitting and dog walking offer flexible, enjoyable work. Services like Rover, Tailster, and local Facebook groups connect pet owners with sitters. Rates typically range from £10-20 per walk or £25-50 per night for pet sitting. It's perfect for students who want outdoor activity combined with income.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Job Hunting
Learning from others' mistakes helps you navigate the job search more smoothly. Here are pitfalls to avoid:
Starting Too Late
Waiting until your holiday starts to look for work severely limits your options. Most good positions fill weeks in advance. Start your search at least a month before your break, preferably earlier for competitive roles.
Applying to Too Few Positions
Don't put all your hopes on one or two applications. Apply to multiple positions to increase your chances. Aim for at least 5-10 applications for holiday work. The more applications you submit, the higher your likelihood of securing interviews and job offers.
Ignoring Your Schedule Realistically
Don't overcommit to work hours you can't actually manage. Be realistic about your availability, considering travel home, family commitments, and the need for rest. It's better to work fewer hours reliably than commit to a full-time schedule you can't maintain.
Not Following Up
Many students apply for jobs and never follow up. A polite follow-up email or phone call a week after applying shows enthusiasm and keeps your application visible. Just don't be pushy—one follow-up is enough.
Interview Success Tips:
- Research the company before your interview—know what they do and their values
- Prepare examples of skills and experiences relevant to the role
- Dress appropriately—smart casual typically works for student positions
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early to show punctuality
- Ask questions about the role—it shows genuine interest
- Follow up with a thank-you email within 24 hours
Making the Most of Your Holiday Job Experience
Approach holiday work with the right mindset, and it becomes more than just a way to earn money—it's an investment in your future.
Setting Personal Goals
Before starting any job, set clear goals. Perhaps you want to save a specific amount, develop certain skills, or build confidence in customer-facing roles. Having goals keeps you motivated during challenging shifts and helps you evaluate whether the position meets your needs.
Staying Professional
Even in temporary roles, professionalism matters. Arrive on time, follow dress codes, complete tasks thoroughly, and treat everyone respectfully. Your reputation follows you—future employers might contact previous supervisors for references, regardless of how brief your employment was.
Learning Everything You Can
Approach each job as a learning opportunity. Ask questions, volunteer for new tasks, and observe how successful colleagues work. The skills and knowledge you gain, even from jobs unrelated to your career plans, prove valuable throughout life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can UK students earn during university holidays?
UK students can typically earn between £10.42 to £15 per hour depending on the job type and location. Retail positions often pay minimum wage (£10.42 for those 21+), while specialized roles like tutoring can command £15-30 per hour. Students working full-time during a 4-week break could earn £1,600-2,400 before tax.
Do I need a National Insurance number to work during uni breaks?
Yes, you'll need a National Insurance number to work legally in the UK. If you don't have one yet, you can apply online through the government website. Most employers will ask for your NI number before your first shift, though you can sometimes start work while your application is being processed.
Can international students work during university holidays in the UK?
Yes, international students on a Student visa can typically work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official university holidays. However, you should check your visa conditions as some restrictions may apply depending on your course level and institution.
What are the best paying student jobs in the UK?
The highest paying student jobs include private tutoring (£15-30/hour), freelance work like web design or content writing (£20-40/hour), bar work in busy venues (£12-15/hour plus tips), and delivery driving (£12-18/hour). Remote customer service roles for tech companies can also pay well at £12-16/hour.
How do I balance holiday work with studying and rest?
Set clear boundaries by deciding how many hours you want to work before accepting a position. Aim for 20-30 hours per week maximum to leave time for rest and coursework. Choose flexible jobs that allow you to swap shifts if needed, and always prioritize at least one full day off per week for recovery.
When should I start looking for holiday work?
Start your job search 4-6 weeks before your holiday break begins. Christmas retail positions are advertised from October onwards, while summer jobs often appear in April and May. Early applications give you better choice and allow time for interviews and training before the holidays start.
Do I have to pay tax on my holiday job earnings?
You only pay income tax if you earn more than £12,570 per year (the personal allowance for 2024-25). If you're only working during holidays, you likely won't reach this threshold. However, your employer might deduct tax through PAYE. If you've overpaid, you can claim it back from HMRC after the tax year ends.
Are zero-hours contracts good for students?
Zero-hours contracts can work well for students as they offer maximum flexibility with no guaranteed hours. You can accept or decline shifts based on your schedule. However, the downside is inconsistent income and no guarantee of work during busy periods. They're ideal if you have other income sources or savings to fall back on.
Final Thoughts on Student Holiday Employment
Finding the right part-time work during your university holidays doesn't have to be stressful. With proper planning, realistic expectations, and a proactive approach, you can secure positions that provide financial support while still allowing time to enjoy your break.
Remember that every job, regardless of how basic it seems, contributes to your professional development. The customer service skills you gain in retail, the responsibility you develop from tutoring, the time management you learn through delivery work—all of these experiences shape you into a more capable, confident professional.
Start your job search early, apply strategically, and don't get discouraged by initial rejections. The UK job market for students is competitive, but opportunities exist for those who persist. Whether you're saving for next term's expenses, building your CV, or simply wanting financial independence, holiday work offers valuable benefits beyond the paycheck.
Approach your holiday job with professionalism and a positive attitude. Treat it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others. The relationships you build, skills you develop, and experiences you gain will serve you well throughout your academic journey and beyond into your professional career.
Most importantly, maintain balance. Your holidays exist for rest and recovery, not just earning money. Find the sweet spot where you're financially productive without sacrificing your wellbeing. With the right approach, you'll return to university next term financially healthier, more experienced, and ready to tackle whatever academic challenges lie ahead.