Studying and earning can go hand in hand. Discover the Top 20 Jobs for International Students in the UK You Can Do Without Experience.
Relocating to the UK for studies is exciting, but let’s be real—it comes with financial responsibilities. Rent, food, transport, study materials, and even that cup of coffee to get you through late-night revisions can quickly add up. Like many international students, you might be wondering how to balance academic life while making extra income. The best part? You don’t need a stacked CV to land a decent part-time job.
The UK offers plenty of entry-level and flexible roles designed to fit around a student’s schedule. These jobs not only provide income but also help you build connections, develop soft skills, and gain exposure to UK workplace culture.
Even if your resume looks completely empty, you can still explore the following 20 great opportunities.
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Top 20 Jobs for International Students in the UK You Can Do Without Experience
1. Retail Assistant
Shops and supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Boots, or Primark are always hiring. Duties often include stocking shelves, assisting customers, or handling checkout.
Why it’s good: Simple training, flexible shifts.
Pay range: £10–£12/hour
2. Barista
Coffee chains like Starbucks, Costa, and Pret regularly recruit part-time workers. Responsibilities include preparing drinks, cleaning, and serving customers.
Why it’s good: No prior skills needed; training provided.
Pay range: £9–£11/hour
3. Waiter/Waitress
Cafés, pubs, and restaurants consistently need extra hands. You’ll take orders, serve meals, and sometimes manage payments.
Why it’s good: Fast-paced role with tips on top of hourly wages.
Pay range: £9–£11/hour plus tips
4. Warehouse Operative
Companies like Amazon and Argos employ students for packing, sorting, and dispatching—especially during busy seasons.
Why it’s good: No customer interaction; night shifts often fit study schedules.
Pay range: £10–£14/hour
5. Cleaner
Not glamorous but steady work. Cleaning roles exist in offices, schools, and student halls.
Why it’s good: Quiet environment, flexible hours.
Pay range: £10–£12/hour
6. Library Assistant
Universities and local libraries hire students for shelving, admin support, and desk duties.
Why it’s good: Calm and academic-friendly environment.
Pay range: £9–£11/hour
7. Delivery Rider (Bike/Scooter)
Join platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, or Just Eat with a bike or scooter.
Why it’s good: Flexible hours, extra earnings through tips.
Pay range: £8–£15/hour depending on location
8. Receptionist (Part-Time)
Gyms, hostels, and clinics sometimes need evening or weekend reception staff.
Why it’s good: Structured role with admin experience.
Pay range: £10–£13/hour
9. Student Ambassador
Universities employ their own students to support open days, events, and tours.
Why it’s good: Flexible, familiar work environment.
Pay range: £10–£12/hour
10. Pet Sitter/Dog Walker
Animal lovers can find part-time pet care jobs through apps or local ads.
Why it’s good: Flexible and enjoyable for pet enthusiasts.
Pay range: £8–£15/hour
11. Babysitter
Families often seek reliable babysitters for evenings and weekends.
Why it’s good: Good pay, recurring opportunities.
Pay range: £10–£13/hour
12. Supermarket Attendant
Chains like Aldi and Lidl regularly recruit for shelf-stacking or customer support.
Why it’s good: Straightforward tasks, shift-based.
Pay range: £11–£13/hour
13. Data Entry Clerk
Offices and institutions often need part-time data entry workers.
Why it’s good: Simple computer-based work.
Pay range: £10–£12/hour
14. Event Steward/Usher
Work at concerts, theaters, and sporting events with companies like Showsec.
Why it’s good: Per-event shifts, sometimes with free access to shows.
Pay range: £9–£12/hour
15. Hotel Housekeeping
Hotels frequently need part-time cleaners and room attendants.
Why it’s good: Independent work, flexible hours.
Pay range: £10–£12/hour
16. Kitchen Porter
Assist with washing dishes, cleaning, and basic food prep in restaurants.
Why it’s good: Behind-the-scenes work, chance to learn about kitchens.
Pay range: £9–£11/hour
17. Market Research Interviewer
Companies hire part-timers for phone surveys and questionnaires.
Why it’s good: No selling involved, minimal training needed.
Pay range: £10–£14/hour
18. Cashier
Convenience stores and supermarkets need cashiers for handling payments and restocking.
Why it’s good: Routine work, flexible hours.
Pay range: £10–£12/hour
19. Tour Guide
Universities and local travel agencies look for guides to lead campus or city tours.
Why it’s good: Fun, interactive role—ideal for outgoing students.
Pay range: £10–£15/hour
20. Festival/Fair Helper
Seasonal events require short-term staff for serving food, managing stalls, or setting up.
Why it’s good: Temporary but fun, sociable work.
Pay range: £9–£13/hour
Final Thoughts
Don’t worry if you have no previous work history in the UK—everyone starts somewhere. What employers value most are reliability, adaptability, and a positive attitude.
Here are a few tips to boost your chances:
- Polish your CV (include volunteer work or school projects).
- Register with your university’s career service for student job listings.
- Start small; even part-time roles help you gain local experience.
- Remember visa limits: international students can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Part-time work isn’t just about money—it’s about independence, building friendships, and gaining valuable skills. So don’t wait for the perfect role. Take what’s available, give it your best, and you’ll be surprised how quickly you grow in confidence and career readiness.
