10 Best Apps to Earn Money as a Student in the UK image.

10 Best Apps to Earn Money as a Student in the UK

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Introduction

Being a student in the UK often means juggling tight budgets and rising living costs. Fortunately, there are plenty of legit money-making apps that offer flexible side income.

Whether you’re studying full-time or part-time, extra cash can help cover your expenses. From cashback rewards to paid surveys, students can now earn money using just their phones.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best apps to earn money as a student in the UK. These apps are free, beginner-friendly, and offer genuine ways to boost your bank account.

1. Swagbucks – Earn Rewards for Simple Tasks

Swagbucks is a top-rated platform that pays users for completing small online tasks. These include watching videos, playing games, taking surveys, and even shopping online.

You earn “SB” points, which you can redeem for PayPal cash or gift cards. Swagbucks is ideal for students looking to make money during study breaks.

Key Features:

  • Free £10 welcome bonus after sign-up and qualifying purchase

  • Daily surveys and tasks available 24/7

  • Multiple payout options including PayPal and Amazon

2. TaskRabbit – Get Paid for Odd Jobs

TaskRabbit connects students with people who need help with small local tasks. Whether it’s assembling furniture or grocery shopping, you can earn on your schedule.

All tasks are posted by locals, making this app great for students in larger UK cities. You set your hourly rate and choose only the tasks you want to accept.

Key Features:

  • Perfect for flexible weekend gigs

  • Set your own rates and availability

  • Popular in London, Manchester, Birmingham

3. TopCashback – Earn While You Shop

TopCashback rewards students with real cash when shopping at partnered retailers. You simply shop through the app or website and earn a percentage back on each purchase.

With over 5,000 retailers, it’s a passive way to make money as you spend. Perfect for students who shop online regularly for books, clothes, or electronics.

Key Features:

  • Free to use with no minimum withdrawal

  • Partnered with major UK brands like ASOS, Argos, and Boots

  • High cashback rates and frequent bonus offers

4. Fiverr – Sell Your Skills Online

Fiverr is one of the best freelancing platforms for students with digital skills. You can offer services like writing, design, video editing, or coding starting at £5.

It’s an excellent platform for UK students to build a portfolio and earn real income. Work from your laptop and get paid in pounds directly to your bank or PayPal.

Key Features:

  • No sign-up fees or monthly charges

  • Huge marketplace for every digital skill

  • Excellent for creative or tech-savvy students

5. UserTesting – Get Paid to Review Websites

UserTesting pays students to test websites and apps, offering honest feedback. You complete short tasks and share your opinion via video, earning £5 to £15 per test.

Each session takes about 10–20 minutes, making it ideal for busy student schedules. It’s a simple way to earn while helping companies improve their websites.

Key Features:

  • Paid per test via PayPal

  • Work remotely with flexible hours

  • High-paying tests available for UK students

6. Toluna Influencers – Get Paid for Sharing Opinions

Toluna lets you earn money by answering surveys and participating in research panels. They partner with big brands looking for consumer feedback, especially from students.

You earn points that can be exchanged for vouchers or PayPal cash. Surveys range from 2 to 20 minutes, with rewards up to £5 each.

Key Features:

  • Mobile-friendly interface

  • Frequent survey invitations for UK-based students

  • Multiple payout options

7. Deliveroo – Make Money with Flexible Delivery Jobs

Deliveroo offers part-time delivery jobs that are perfect for students with a bike. You can deliver food in your spare time and earn per delivery, plus tips.

Deliveroo lets you choose your own hours, making it ideal for class schedules. You’ll need a smartphone, bike or scooter, and proof of right to work in the UK.

Key Features:

  • Flexible hours with weekly payments

  • Bonuses for peak-time delivery

  • Popular in major UK cities

8. Receipt Hog – Snap Receipts and Get Paid

Receipt Hog is an easy money-making app that pays you for uploading shopping receipts. It collects data for market research and rewards users with coins for each valid receipt.

Once you earn enough coins, you can cash out via PayPal or Amazon vouchers. It’s passive and works well for students already shopping regularly.

Key Features:

  • Works with almost any UK retailer

  • Coins earned per receipt and bonus activities

  • Free and simple to use

9. Streetbees – Chat and Earn Money

Streetbees pays you to share your opinions through short “chat-style” surveys. Topics include food habits, tech preferences, and lifestyle behaviour.

Each task pays between £0.50 to £5, depending on the complexity and length. It’s ideal for students who want quick tasks without long questionnaires.

Key Features:

  • Fun and engaging question format

  • PayPal withdrawals with low minimum threshold

  • UK-based surveys regularly updated

10. SnapMyEats – Get Paid to Share Your Food Experience

SnapMyEats is perfect for students who dine out or order takeaways often. Just take a picture of your receipt and answer a few quick questions about your meal.

Each month, you can earn up to £10 in Amazon gift cards. It’s simple, fast, and requires no extra effort beyond eating.

Key Features:

  • Monthly reward guaranteed if receipts are submitted

  • Available on both iOS and Android

  • Best for frequent diners and takeaway lovers

Quick Tips to Maximise Earnings

  • Use multiple apps to diversify your income

  • Set time limits to avoid burnout

  • Withdraw earnings regularly to stay motivated

  • Focus on high-paying tasks

  • Refer friends for bonus rewards

FAQs: Quick Answers for Curious Students

  1. What is the best money-making app for UK students?
    Swagbucks is a top all-rounder for surveys, games, and cashback rewards.

  2. Can I really earn cash with these apps?
    Yes, apps like TaskRabbit and Fiverr pay directly to your account or PayPal.

  3. Are survey apps safe for students to use?
    Reputable apps like Toluna and Streetbees are completely safe and data-protected.

  4. How much can I make monthly from these apps?
    Depending on time spent, students earn between £50–£300 monthly on average.

  5. Do these apps work on Android and iPhone?
    Yes, all listed apps support both major mobile operating systems.

  6. Are there any sign-up fees or hidden charges?
    No, all these apps are free to join and use in the UK.

  7. What app pays the fastest?
    UserTesting and Fiverr usually offer the quickest payouts.

  8. Can international students use these apps?
    Most apps accept anyone legally living and working in the UK.

  9. Do I need a National Insurance number?
    For gig economy apps like Deliveroo, yes. Not required for survey-based apps.

  10. Are cashback apps actually worth it?
    Yes, cashback apps like TopCashback save money on regular purchases.

Final Thoughts

Earning money as a student in the UK has never been easier thanks to mobile apps. Whether you want to freelance, complete surveys, or deliver food, there’s an app for you.

These top 10 apps offer flexibility, fast payments, and simple ways to boost your income. Start with one or two that match your interests and build a steady stream of side income.

With just a few hours a week, you can cover your essentials and gain financial freedom. Use your phone wisely and let these high-earning apps work for you, anytime, anywhere.

Also check out:

7 Flexible Evening Jobs You Can Do from Home in the UK (2025 Guide)