In 2025, more British students than ever are successfully managing to earn extra income through side hustles. Flexible work opportunities, the rise of digital platforms, and creative ideas have enabled students to generate £500 or more each month while balancing their academic schedules. Here’s a look at the most popular and profitable side hustles students are pursuing across the UK.
Online Tutoring: A High-Income Option
Online tutoring continues to be one of the most rewarding ways for students to monetize their academic skills. By offering support in subjects such as mathematics, English, or science, many students are earning between £15 and £40 per hour. The ability to set personal schedules and tutor remotely makes this one of the best side hustles for consistent monthly earnings.
Key highlights include:
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Teaching primary or secondary school students
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Offering language learning sessions
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Specialized tutoring for exam preparation
Content Creation and Freelancing
Students skilled in content creation, social media management, and freelance services are seeing excellent financial returns. Whether it’s running a blog, editing videos, writing articles, or managing small businesses’ online presence, content-based side hustles have grown enormously. Many students are earning sponsorships, freelance contracts, and digital marketing gigs through consistent work.
Popular freelance opportunities:
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Graphic designing and video editing
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Copywriting and blogging
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Social media content management for brands
Flexible Delivery Jobs and Ride-Sharing
Delivery services and ride-sharing have remained flexible options for students. Working part-time as delivery riders or drivers allows students to choose their hours and maximize earnings during busy periods. Whether delivering food, groceries, or packages, students are efficiently earning extra income without fixed schedules.
Benefits of delivery side hustles:
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High flexibility and independence
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Increased earnings during evenings and weekends
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Minimal startup requirements
Selling Handmade or Vintage Products
Students with creative flair are turning hobbies into businesses by selling handmade crafts, digital artwork, or vintage clothing. By setting up online shops and participating in local markets, many students are earning substantial monthly incomes while doing something they are passionate about.
Items commonly sold include:
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Jewelry, paintings, and home décor
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Upcycled fashion and vintage collectibles
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Digital art prints and stationery
Top Side Hustles and Expected Monthly Earnings for Students
| Side Hustle | Average Monthly Earnings | Flexibility | Skill Level Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Tutoring | £600–£1,200 | Very High | Moderate to High |
| Content Creation/Freelancing | £500–£2,000+ | High | High |
| Delivery and Ride-Sharing | £300–£800 | Very High | Low to Moderate |
| Selling Handmade/Vintage Items | £200–£1,000 | Moderate | Moderate |
FAQs
What are the most popular side hustles for UK students in 2025?
Online tutoring, freelance content creation, delivery services, and selling handmade or vintage products are the most popular side hustles among British students this year.
How much income can a student realistically earn from these side hustles?
Students regularly earn between £500 and £1,500 per month depending on the hustle they choose and the time they invest.
Can students manage these side hustles along with university studies?
Yes, most side hustles offer flexible hours, allowing students to balance work with academic commitments effectively.
Do these side hustles require special skills or qualifications?
Some hustles, like tutoring and freelancing, require specific skills, but many opportunities can be started with basic knowledge and dedication.
What are the benefits of doing a side hustle during university?
Besides financial support, side hustles help students gain work experience, build portfolios, enhance skills, and prepare for future careers.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.