The London Part-Time Hustle: No Full-Time Students In This Economy!

In June 2025, the annual Student Academic Experience Survey (SAES) revealed a significant increase in the percentage of full-time undergraduates undertaking paid work during term time. The SAES is conducted annually by Advance HE (a charity formerly known as the Higher Education Academy) and the Higher Education Policy Institute. It captures the views of over 10,000 full-time undergraduates in the UK to provide insight into the student experience in relation to cost-of-living pressures. 

This year, the proportion of full-time undergraduates working during term dates has risen to 68%, which is 12% higher than in 2024, and 26% higher than in 2020. 

So, how can students balance a full-time degree, complete with extra-curricular activities, social and physical well-being, and combat the effects of inflation? Here are five ways I tried to navigate generating income while studying. 

One Stint at a Time

Personally, I’ve found the platform Stint to be particularly auspicious as someone who cannot commit to long shifts or strict contracts. Stint is a platform that offers flexible student work in hospitality— and yes, it was specifically designed for students in the UK! The application process is simplified to only the essentials: set up a profile, submit a 60-second introductory video, and start applying! Companies such as Pret, M&S, and Tortilla send out invites on the platform and are happy to hire those without previous hospitality experience. Not only do they offer a competitive rate, the pay day is also often the next day. 

’Tis the Season to Be Juggling

One habit my friends have picked up is working during Christmas or summer. Most restaurants and retail stores require extra staff to manage the festive rush—and they’re usually more willing to hire people with limited experience. I know friends who have had positive experiences at Hamley’s Toy Store, the LEGO Store and Whittard of Chelsea. Popular tourist spots like Borough Market and Winter Wonderland also tend to offer temporary contracts—but it’s wise to apply a few months in advance for these. Those who are friendly, proactive, and eager to learn may even be invited to extend their contract beyond the holidays. While shifts can be busier over this period, it’s an excellent way to earn and save extra cash.

Can’t Get Out of Bed? Try Online Tutoring

For me, it can be challenging to balance paid work and coursework—sometimes you just need a stable source of income without burning yourself out. Platforms such as SUPERPROF, MyTutor and TutorExtra are catered towards university students and allow flexible tutoring hours. If you already study English, Math, or Biology, why not teach it as well? 

Work for the Student Union

The KCL Student Union provides jobs for students across every campus. The vacancies are detailed on their official website. The application process includes filling out an Employment form, an Equal Opportunities form, and attending a 30-minute in-person interview. Not only does KCLSU offer a competitive rate, you would also get a number of discounts depending on your job. Typical roles offered include food staff, retail staff at the Union Store, social media officers, and well-being officers. 

Events: A Week’s Pay in a Day!

Working an event—sometimes dubbed a “one-shift wonder”—can be a lifesaver for busy students. Event staffing companies such as GoTo Events or Arc1 Hospitality regularly recruit students to help set up, serve, or manage large functions across London. While shifts often last from 10-12 hours, the work is usually lively, ranging from corporate events to music festivals. While the rate isn’t exceptional, the payoff is in the convenience: you can often earn a week’s worth of spending money in a single day, freeing up the rest of your week for lectures, revision, or just a well-earned break.

You’re Still a Full-Time Human—You Can’t Do it All

Whilst there are multiple ways to earn extra income, the cost-of-living situation remains dire. In the same SAES survey, it is reported that students now spend less time on their academic commitments as they are forced  to juggle employment. This is not to mention the uncountable aspects to student life and experience, such as social engagements, downtime and hobbies. There is only so much you can do. If you are struggling financially due to unforeseen circumstances, grants or loans subsidised by your university are generally available. King’s offers an International Hardship Fund which awards up to 6000 pounds to international or EU students. Applications open every year in October and closes in late May. 

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