About two out of three students have a job alongside their studies. A student job doesn't just give you money for rent – it also provides experience, a network, and a head start when you enter the job market after graduation. In this guide, you'll learn where to find student jobs and how to increase your chances of getting the job you want.
Finding a student job can feel overwhelming. There are many opportunities, and competition can be fierce. But with the right strategy and some patience, most people find a job that fits their studies and life. Let's start by looking at where you can actually find student jobs.
Where do you find student jobs?
There are many places to look for student jobs. The most effective ones depend on what type of job you're looking for.
Job portals and websites
Major job portals often have a category specifically for student jobs:
- Jobindex: Denmark's largest job portal with a dedicated student job section
- Graduateland: Focuses on students and recent graduates
- StudentJob.dk: Specialized in jobs for students
- Indeed: Good for broad searches with part-time filters
- LinkedIn: Strong for jobs in larger companies and office positions
Tip: Set up job alerts so you're notified when new relevant jobs are posted. This saves time and ensures you're quick to apply.
Your university's career center
Most universities and educational institutions have a career center or job bank. Companies often post positions here that are targeted at students in your specific field. It's a goldmine that many students overlook.
The career center can also help with CV reviews, application feedback, and career guidance. Use them – it's free.
Networking and contacts
Many student jobs are never posted publicly. They go to people who know someone who knows someone. That's why your network matters:
- Tell friends and family that you're looking for a job
- Ask fellow students if they know of open positions
- Follow companies you're interested in on LinkedIn
- Attend professional events and career fairs
Learn more in our guide to networking.
Unsolicited applications
If there's a specific company you'd like to work for, you can send an unsolicited application. It takes more work, but it shows initiative and can open doors that would otherwise be closed.
Research the company thoroughly before you send. Who have they hired before? Which departments might need a student assistant? Consider calling to ask if they take on students.
What type of student job suits you?
Not all student jobs are the same. Some provide relevant experience, others offer flexibility, and some just provide money. Consider what's most important to you.
Relevant student job
A relevant student job is related to your field of study. If you're studying economics, it could be a position in a finance department. If you're studying communications, it could be as a student assistant in a marketing department.
Advantages:
- You gain experience you can use after graduation
- You build a relevant network
- You can apply theory to practice
- You significantly strengthen your CV
Disadvantages:
- Can be harder to find
- Often more competition
- May require more hours
Flexible job
A flexible job is typically service or retail jobs where you can choose your own shifts. Think café, bar, shop, or warehouse.
Advantages:
- Great flexibility around exams and deadlines
- Often easier to get
- Social contact with colleagues
Disadvantages:
- Not directly relevant to your career
- Can be physically demanding
- Often lower pay
Freelance and self-employment
Some students choose to work freelance – as writers, designers, photographers, or programmers. This can be a good solution if you have an in-demand skill.
Advantages:
- Total flexibility
- You build a portfolio
- Can be well paid
Disadvantages:
- Uncertain income
- You have to find your own clients
- Requires self-discipline
How to write a good application
When you've found a job you want to apply for, it's time to write your application. Here are some tips specifically for students:
Focus on what you can do
You may not have much work experience – and the employer knows that. Instead, focus on:
- Relevant courses or projects from your studies
- Volunteer work or association work
- Personal qualities (responsible, quick learner, organized)
- Your motivation for this specific position
Be specific
Avoid writing "I am an engaged and dedicated student." Everyone writes that. Instead, write something concrete: "In my bachelor's project, I analyzed customer data for a local company, which gave me practical experience with data analysis."
Tailor to the job
Don't write one application to send to everyone. Tailor each application to the specific position. Mention the company's name and show that you've researched what they do.
Tip: Read the job posting carefully and use the same words the company uses. If they're looking for a "structured" employee, mention that you're structured – and give an example.
When should you apply?
Timing can make a big difference when applying for student jobs.
Seasonal job searching
Many companies hire new students at the beginning of the semester – in August/September and January/February. This is when most positions are posted.
But that doesn't mean you should only apply at those times. Jobs come up throughout the year, and if you apply unsolicited, you might reach a company that just realized they need help.
Apply well in advance
Many companies take time with recruitment. If you're looking for a student job for September, start looking in June or July. Expect that it can take several weeks from application to start date.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying too broadly: If you apply to 50 random jobs, the quality of your applications will be low. Focus on fewer, targeted applications.
- Underestimating service jobs: A job in a shop or café can teach you valuable skills like customer service, teamwork, and stress management.
- Giving up too quickly: Finding a student job takes time. Keep going, even when rejections come.
- Forgetting about networking: Many jobs are never posted on job portals. Use your network.
- Ignoring your university's resources: Career centers and job banks are often underutilized.
Practical tips
- Update your CV so it's ready to send – read our guide on CV as a student
- Create a professional email address (firstname.lastname@gmail.com)
- Make a LinkedIn profile, even if you don't have experience
- Set aside time for job searching – treat it as a task
- Follow up on applications after 1-2 weeks if you haven't heard back
- Practice talking about yourself – it's useful for interviews
- Be patient but persistent
Try it yourself
Take 15 minutes and do the following:
- Set up a job alert on one of the mentioned job portals
- Find your university's career center and see what services they offer
- Write a list of 5 companies you'd like to work for
It doesn't take long, but it gives you a head start compared to those who just wait for jobs to come to them.
FAQ
How many hours can I work while studying?
It depends on your education and energy level. Many students work 10-15 hours per week, but it varies. Remember that your studies are your primary task. Start with fewer hours and increase if you have the capacity.
What if I don't have any experience?
Many students don't. Focus on your academic results, volunteer work, association work, and personal qualities. Everyone starts somewhere.
Should I take an irrelevant job if I can't find a relevant one?
Yes, if you need the money. An "irrelevant" job still gives you experience with working, being part of a team, and taking responsibility. That's valuable. You can always switch later.
Next step
Now you know where to find student jobs and how to increase your chances of getting one. The next step is to get your CV in order.
In the next guide, we'll go through how to write a CV as a student – even if you don't have much experience yet. Your CV is your first chance to make an impression, so it's worth doing it properly.