How to make extra Money as an International Student in the UK.

Being an international student in the UK can often be a challenging and overwhelming experience.

One of the most common struggles that they face is finding ways to support themselves financially, as living costs continue to rise. 

Many international students face difficulty in coping with the high cost of living, from tuition fees to accommodation and general everyday expenses.

Despite these challenges, there are still plenty of opportunities for international students to make extra money and thrive in the UK. We encourage international students to explore opportunities that can help supplement their income.

With hard work, determination and a willingness to explore new opportunities, international students can create a successful life for themselves in the UK. It’s important to understand that the lifestyle of international students in the UK is unique and dynamic, with plenty of opportunities to learn, grow and thrive in a diverse and welcoming community.

How to make extra money as an international student in the UK.

There are numerous ways for international students to make extra money in the UK. It’s essential to identify your skills and interests and choose the option that suits you best. Always do your research and ensure that you comply with the laws and regulations concerning the activity you choose to engage in.

1. Freelance writing: a great way to make extra cash is by freelance writing. You can write articles for blogs, and newspapers, or even do academic writing. Different writing levels pay differently, but you can make up to £100 per 1000 words. You can start by creating accounts on freelance writing platforms like Upwork, Textbroker, and Fiverr.

2. Delivering food: you can work for popular food delivery services like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, or Just Eat. A food delivery rider earns an average of £10 to £12 per hour. To start, you’ll need a bicycle or scooter, a smartphone, and a road safety-compliant helmet.

3. Tutoring: tutoring is an excellent opportunity to make money as an international student. You can offer your tutoring services online or via private lessons. Online tutoring pays around £7 to £18 per hour, while private lessons can earn up to £30 an hour. You can start by advertising your services on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or even attend tutoring fairs in your institution.

4. Freelance graphic designing: If you have graphic designing skills, then you can create logos, website pages, or banners for individuals or small businesses. The pay depends on your experience level and quality of work, but you can make around £15 to £40 per hour. You will need to have graphic designing software like Adobe Photoshop, and you can market yourself on freelance sites, such as Upwork and Freelancer.

5. Freelance translation: Translation is in high demand, and you can make some cash from it. Websites like Gengo and One Hour Translation offer freelancers the opportunity to earn money through translation work. The pay is around £0.03 to £0.08 per word, depending on the language. You need to be fluent in at least two languages to start.

6. Data Entry: Freelance data entry is a simple way to earn money, especially if you have some experience in it. The pay varies depending on the project and your experience, but it can range from £5 to £20 per hour. You can start by creating accounts on freelance job platforms like Upwork and PeoplePerHour, or you can offer your services to individual businesses.

7. Social media management: If you’re savvy in social media, you can become a social media manager for small businesses. You’ll manage their social media platforms, creating content and monitoring online engagement. You can make around £10 to £20 per hour. You can start by reaching out to businesses around you or creating accounts on freelance job platforms.

8. Part-time shop assistant: You can work part-time as a shop assistant and earn some extra money. You can get paid around £8 to £10 per hour and start by seeking part-time positions in your local shops or supermarkets. 

9. Virtual Assistant: You can offer administrative support to businesses or individuals as a virtual assistant. You can make up to £25 per hour, depending on your experience. You can find virtual assistant jobs on freelance sites like Upwork and Freelancer.
10. Online surveys: Online survey sites, such as Swagbucks and Toluna, pay individuals to complete surveys. You can earn £0.5 to £5 per survey. Although the payment is meager, it can add up over time.

11. Sell second-hand items: You can sell your second-hand clothing and items online through platforms like eBay or Depop. You can make around £10 to £20 per item, depending on the quality.

12. Dog walking: Dog walkers are in high demand in many cities. You can earn around £10 to £15 per hour. You can start by advertising your services online or in local classifieds.

13. Music or language lesson teacher: You can teach people a foreign language or a musical instrument.You can teach online or in-person and make around £15 to £30 per hour. You can start by advertising your services on social media platforms or tutoring websites.

14. House cleaning: You can offer house-cleaning services and charge around £10 to £15 per hour. You can start by advertising your services on classified ads sites like Gumtree or local Facebook groups.

15. Rent out a spare room: If you have a spare room in your accommodation, you can rent it out to another student or short-stay visitors. You can make around £500 to £800 per month, depending on the location. You will need to check your tenancy agreement and seek permission from your landlord before renting out your room.

Why international students in the UK should Get a side hustle.

If you are wondering why you should take up a side hustle as an international student in the UK. Here is some reason why you should.

1. To cover the living cost: I know from personal experience that living expenses in the UK can be high, so getting a side hustle can help international students cover recurring expenses like rent, transportation and bills. 

2. To gain practical experience: A side hustle will not only give you an additional source of income but also provide you with valuable work experience in the UK job market.

3. To expand your network: The work you do through your side hustle will require you to interact with new people. This gives you an opportunity to make connections and build relationships that could be beneficial in the future.

4. To enhance your skill set: Depending on the nature of the side hustle, you may learn new skills or improve the ones you already possess. These skills could be valuable in helping you secure a full-time job in the future.

5. To overcome boredom or loneliness: International students who are far away from their home country or family may find themselves feeling bored or lonely at times. A side hustle provides the chance to stay busy and interact with others, thus avoiding isolation.

6. To explore new opportunities: By taking up a side hustle, you can explore new interests or industries that you may have been curious about. This presents an opportunity to discover new passions, and maybe even turn those side gigs into full-time careers.

7. To build financial stability: Economic downturns or unanticipated expenses can compromise a student’s financial stability and academic progression. Having a side hustle can help to build up emergency funds as well as provide financial stability.

FAQs on How to make extra money as an international student in the UK.

What are some ways international students can earn extra money in the UK?

One way is to find a part-time job on or off campus, such as working in a restaurant or doing administrative tasks for a department. Another option is to do freelance work, such as writing for blogs or designing graphics for businesses.

Is it legal for international students to work in the UK?

Yes, international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during holidays, as long as they have the proper visa and follow the terms set by their Tier 4 sponsor.

How can international students find job opportunities?

Students can search for job postings through their university’s career center or online job boards, such as Indeed or LinkedIn. They can also ask professors or classmates if they know of any job openings.

Can international students start their own businesses in the UK?

Yes, international students can start their own businesses as long as they have the necessary permits and follow the regulations set by the UK government.

Are there any restrictions on the type of work international students can do in the UK?

International students are allowed to work in most industries, but there may be restrictions for certain jobs such as some roles in healthcare or childcare. It’s important to check with their Tier 4 sponsor to ensure they are not violating any visa terms.

Conclusion.

Being an international student in the UK can be challenging and taunting. First, the cost of living is high, plus school expenses. To cope with all those, you have to take up a side hustle that will enable you to earn money.