When you decide to study abroad, part-time work is an essential part of this journey. Simply put, there are numerous expenses starting from student accommodation to maintaining a lifestyle. And, this is why working part-time is something every international student does.
As seen recently, the gig economy has expanded significantly due to its flexibility, good wages, and experience worldwide. Plus, you can expect to see growth in this segment in the upcoming years. Not limited to money, international students benefit greatly by creating a balance, earning community experience, and more. And, this is why we have penned down this blog for you. If you are looking for the kinds of part-time work opportunities while studying abroad, you are in the right place. Our blog specifically revolves around the skills and top highlights of part-time work opportunities for international students in 2025. Let’s find that dream part-time job!
What is the Gig Economy?
In simple terms, the gig economy offers students and professionals short-term, flexible, and freelance jobs. Unlike traditional 9 to 5 jobs, gigs allow people to work as per availability and skills. For instance, if you have a knowledge of coding, you can easily earn a few bucks through coding. With the rising cost of student housing, tuition fees, and other expenses, international students majorly rely on these opportunities.
Key Benefits of the Gig Economy
- Flexibility and Adaptability: You can earn some extra bucks as per your schedule by picking up work when you are free.
- Skill Development: You can explore part-time work opportunities based on your skills. For instance, if you are good at writing, you can work as a freelance writer. This way you can also make your portfolio to build students’ marketability.
- Remote Options: Unlike traditional jobs, you don’t have to travel much. You can simply find work opportunities that allow remote working. Hence, you can work from the comfort of your long-term or short-term student accommodation.
- Build a Professional Network: By picking up part-time work during your education, you can build professional connections that can benefit you in future career prospects.
Eligibility to Work Part-Time in 2025
Every country has its own set of rules when it comes to part-time work for international students. Let’s say you have landed in the United Kingdom. Now, you must be aware of the rules regarding part-time work in the UK.
Primary rules include:
- Visa Requirements: As per the law, a student can work up to 20 hours per week which makes a total of 80 hours a month. As a result, you have to be under the limit of working hours. Moreover, only UK Tier 4 visa a.k.a student visa allows part-time employment in the UK.
- University Consent: Most of the time first-year students from certain universities require consent before starting a job in the UK. Hence, make sure that’s a rule at your university.
- National Insurance Number: A National insurance number is an essential document you require before you start working in the UK.
Essential Skills to Thrive Professionally
Did you know that the United Kingdom has the largest group of students working part-time? Keeping facts aside, there are certain skills you require to step up the career ladder. Gaining practical experience can help you learn things more than any book ever could. Here are some essential skills to thrive as students:
- Time Management: Having a proper balance between gigs and education is a significant skill. So, try to schedule work hours well around classes and deadlines. Plus, this will also help you to be productive without risking burnout.
- Knowledge of Digital Tools: As the digital world is evolving rapidly, be aware of digital tools like ChatGPT, AI, and more. In addition, you should also know about communication platforms, project management software, productivity tools, etc.
- Communication is a key to success: Be it remote working or in-office working, you should have communication skills for effective communication. Clear and concise communication will help build rapport with clients.
- Personalized Skills: Sometimes there are certain gigs that require specific skills. These skills include graphic designing, coding, language proficiency, digital marketing, and more. In short, having such specialized skills will help you stand out in the gig market.
Work Opportunities for International Students in 2025
There are endless opportunities in various industries for students to work in. From remote options to in-office opportunities, you can either work from your student apartments or visit the office. If we speak for the UK, here are some top part-time jobs with average pay to explore in 2025.
- Freelance Writing and Content Creation: £19 to £20
- Private Tutor- £25 to £50 per hour
- Virtual Assistant Roles: £14 to £19 per hour
- Social Media Manager: £18 per hour
- Translator: £14 per hour
- Event Coordinator: £13 per hour
- Graphic Designer: £13 to £14 per hour
- IT Specialist: £17 to £20 per hour
- Web Developer or Coder: £19 per hour
Practical Tips Before Entering the Gig Economy
- Develop a strong professional network for online part-time jobs: There are plenty of platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, LinkedIn, and more where you can find part-time gigs. Hence, create a strong profile through which people can approach you.
- Know Local Laws: As mentioned above, you must be aware of local laws and regulations before entering the gig community. Plus, make sure if you require any consent from your university or student accommodation for work hours.
- Invest in Skill Development: Every now and then the trends keep on changing. Hence, try to invest more in skill development as you move forward. Be aware of what clients are looking for and expect to earn as much as possible.
- Set Realistic Goals: When you start earning, it happens that you get overexcited which can lead to overcommitment. So, try to set realistic goals as per your academics and balance well.
Simply put, we can end on this note that the gig economy offers an ideal mix of skill development, flexibility, and income opportunities. International students can focus on relevant skills and embrace part-time work to support the cost of living. Plus, working from your student accommodation or office can add beautiful memories to your international study experience.
