Finding a student job in 2026: where to look, what pays best and tips when it just won't work

You want to earn extra money as a student, but you don't really know where to start. Or you have already applied and just aren't getting a response. In this article we answer the three most frequently asked questions about student jobs in 2026: where to find work, which jobs pay best and what to do when it isn't working out.

How can I find student jobs?

In 2026 there are more ways than ever to find work as a student. Below are the channels that work best.

Apps and platforms

The fastest way to land a student job is through an app like AnyShift. You create a free profile, indicate your availability and immediately see which shifts are available near you. No CV needed, no lengthy application process. Check out the offer on the student jobs page of AnyShift.

VDAB and Student@work

Through VDAB you can register as a job-seeking student and set up a job alert. That way you automatically get notifications when new student vacancies appear in your region. On Student@work you can also check how many of your 650 hours you have already used this year.

Applying on spec

Drop by shops, restaurants, cafes or businesses in your area and ask whether they are looking for students. Especially in hospitality and retail you regularly see notes on the door. A short note of motivation and a friendly impression sometimes do more than a perfect CV.

Using your network

Tell friends, family and acquaintances that you are looking. Many student jobs are never publicly advertised. Word of mouth works surprisingly well, especially with local businesses.

Temp agencies

Register with a temp agency. Most have a separate section for students. You will then be contacted when an assignment becomes available that matches your profile.

What are well-paid student jobs?

Not every student job pays the same. The difference lies mainly in the sector, the time at which you work and the physical demands of the job.

Minimum wage as a student in 2026

The minimum wage depends on your age:

• 18 years and older: about 12.85 euros gross per hour
• 17 years: about 9.36 euros gross per hour
• 16 years: about 8.59 euros gross per hour

The average student wage in Belgium is around 15 euros per hour. In certain sectors you can earn well above that.

Sectors with the highest pay

Sector	Hourly wage (indicative)	Extra benefits
Logistics and warehousing	13 - 16 euros/hour	Night and weekend premiums
Construction and industry	13 - 17 euros/hour	Higher wages in metal/chemicals
Events and festivals	14 - 18 euros/hour	Peak rates at large events
Hospitality (evening/weekend)	12 - 15 euros/hour	Evening, weekend and public holiday supplements

Tips to earn more

• Choose shifts at unpopular times (evening, weekend, public holidays): there you get supplements on top
• Build a good reputation through platforms like AnyShift: employers prefer reliable students
• Work in sectors facing staff shortages: logistics, hospitality and care often pay more to attract staff

Check the available jobs by region on the flexi-job and student job locations page.

Why can't I find a student job?

You have already sent dozens of applications and still no response? That is frustrating, but there are concrete reasons why it is sometimes difficult and what you can do about it.

1. You are looking at the wrong time

Competition is greatest in June and July, when all students are looking for summer jobs at the same time. Smart students start looking as early as March or April. But there are plenty of opportunities outside the summer holidays too: evening shifts during the academic year, weekend work or holiday periods.

2. Your profile is too narrow

If you only search in a particular sector or only within walking distance, you limit your chances. Broaden your search area, try sectors you hadn't thought of before (logistics, events, production) and be flexible with your availability.

3. You have no experience and that puts you off

Many employers aren't looking for experience but for motivation and reliability. A student who shows up on time, is polite and willing to learn gets booked again faster than someone with experience who is unreliable. Start with a first shift and build up your work experience from there.

4. You apply too generically

A copy-paste note of motivation for every vacancy stands out, and not in a good way. Adapt your message briefly for each employer. State why you want to work at that company and when you are available.

5. You don't use enough channels

Searching only on a website is not enough. Combine online platforms, applying on spec, your network and temp agencies. The more channels you use, the faster you get results.

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Conclusion

Finding a student job in 2026 requires an active approach. Use multiple channels, start looking early and be flexible with your availability and sector. The best-paid jobs are found in logistics, construction, events and hospitality with supplements. And if it doesn't work out right away: don't give up, adjust your strategy and try a platform like AnyShift where you can start with no barriers.

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