Summer Jobs for Students

When you’re a student in the UK, summer jobs for students, paid work during the break between academic terms that helps cover living costs and build experience. Also known as seasonal student work, these roles are often the most practical way to earn money without quitting your studies. Unlike year-round part-time gigs, summer jobs give you a chance to work full-time hours—sometimes 30 to 40 a week—while school’s out. That means you can earn enough to cover rent, travel, or even save for next term without dipping into your student loan.

These jobs aren’t just about cash. They’re linked to student earnings UK, how much students actually take home after tax and deductions during summer work. Many students don’t realize they can earn up to £12,570 a year tax-free under the Personal Allowance. That’s more than £240 a week for 12 weeks. And if you’re working in hospitality, retail, or tourism—common summer sectors—you’ll often get tips, staff discounts, or even free meals. Places like Brighton, Manchester, and Edinburgh see a huge spike in summer hiring because of tourism, so your chances are better in cities with big events, festivals, or beaches.

Then there’s part-time jobs for students, regular, ongoing roles that students often hold during term time, but which can sometimes be extended or switched into full-time summer positions. Many students start with a part-time café job in October and get offered a full-time summer shift in June. That’s not luck—it’s showing up on time, being reliable, and asking for more hours. Employers don’t hire strangers; they hire people they know. So if you’ve already got a job, talk to your manager early. If you don’t, start with Facebook Groups, student unions, or local business boards. Don’t wait for job ads—walk in with your CV.

You’ll also see a lot of overlap with work during summer, the broader category of any paid activity students do between terms, including internships, freelance gigs, or even selling handmade goods online. Not every summer job is at a pub or ice cream stand. Some students do data entry for uni departments, help with research projects, tutor younger kids, or even manage social media for small local shops. These roles often pay better and look great on your CV later. The key is matching your skills—whether it’s writing, Excel, or just being good with people—to the opportunity.

And don’t forget the fine print. If you’re on a student visa, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during term, but that restriction lifts in summer. Just make sure your employer checks your right to work. And if you’re getting paid through a payslip, keep an eye on your student loan deductions—they still apply if you earn over the Plan 1 or Plan 2 threshold. You don’t want a surprise when you check your bank account at the end of August.

Below, you’ll find real guides from students who’ve been there: how to negotiate your first summer wage, where to find the best-paid roles without a degree, how to avoid scams on Facebook, and even how to turn a summer job into a full-time offer after graduation. No fluff. Just what works.