Here are the most effective ways to get a part-time job:

Unfortunately, Maintenance Loans aren't enough to cover living costs for many students.

Students in our latest National Student Money Survey spent an average of £1,142 per month. However, the average Maintenance Loan for English students in 2024/25 was equivalent to around £640 per month.It's perhaps not surprising, then, that 58% of surveyed students had part-time jobs. By getting a job, you could start earning a regular, reliable income. This will make a huge difference if you (like so many others) find that your Student Loan isn't big enough.

However, it's worth noting that part-time jobs don't come easy. First, you've got to decide what it is you want to do and then put in the effort to secure a job.

1. Look for part-time jobs far in advance.
   When looking for a job, it's best to start your search as early as possible. You might not get a job straight away, so don't wait until you actually need to start working to begin sending your applications. Hit the ground running by scouting out part-time positions online and applying for a few jobs before you start university. This way, you'll avoid peak job-hunting season. Everyone will be looking for work during freshers' week. So if you're already at the interview stage, you're in for a great chance.
2. Write a brilliant CV.
   Regardless of the type of job you're applying for, you'll need a CV that makes you stand out among other applicants. Your first stop should be our guide to writing the perfect CV. Even if you think you've already nailed yours, it's worth reading through our tips to make sure it's A+ quality. Keep a copy of your standard CV, then tailor it for each application. For example, if a job advert specifically asks for communication and organisational skills, make sure your CV clearly shows that you have these qualities. It's also a good idea to back your skills up with any relevant experience.
3. Triple check your details.
   Students are renowned for changing their contact details regularly. Make sure you always check that the info you're giving to potential employers is up to date. Also, be careful to avoid typos. This should be the case throughout your application, but especially in the section with your contact details. Pay attention to the email address and phone number you include on your application. Recruiters will use these details to contact you about interviews. We'd also advise against listing a Hotmail email address, as they're the least professional-looking of the bunch. Instead, you could get an Outlook or Gmail address.
4. Take part in extracurricular activities.
   We know it seems like a vicious cycle, but having a bit of experience on your CV makes it much easier to land a job. If you haven't had a job before, don't worry. There are plenty of other things you can do to improve your job applications. Not sure which ones to try? We have a guide with the best extracurricular activities for you.You could also try volunteering, helping out a family friend with their business or creating a website to stand out.
5. Be an enthusiastic job applicant.
   By following up on your applications and asking for updates, you show employers you are keen. Putting in a bit of effort to stay in touch throughout the process will go a long way. Just make sure not to bother them too often. And, if you have a job interview, it's always worth sending a quick email afterwards to thank the interviewer for their time. This shows you're genuinely interested in the job and that you're polite, warm and appreciative of the opportunity.
6. Put your social media settings on private.
   Of course, there is a distinction between your work and personal life. However, employers are unlikely to hire you if your social media is filled with photos of drunken nights out.You can turn your accounts to private mode or make sure your social media looks professional. If you use social media in the right way, it may even help you land a job!

Sources

Save the Student
How to get a part-time job

By Save The Student
Save The Student is the UK's leading student money website, helping you budget your money, make sense of student finance, look for part-time jobs, find extra funding and more. Founded in 2007, the website provides free and impartial guides, tools and verified deals to tackle the real-life money problems students face at university.