If you’re looking for a simple way to make extra money without needing experience, qualifications, or a long-term commitment, then working as an exam invigilator is one of those side hustles that’s definitely worth considering.
It’s not glamorous, it’s not exciting… but it is easy, reliable, and actually pays pretty well for what you’re doing.
And if you time it right around exam season, you can bring in a nice chunk of extra cash in just a few weeks.
Let’s talk about what the job actually involves, where to find work, and most importantly, how much invigilators get paid in the UK.
What Is An Invigilator?
An invigilator is the person responsible for supervising exams.
You’ll usually be working in secondary schools, colleges, or universities, helping to make sure exams run properly and fairly.
In reality, the job is very straightforward. You’re there to be an extra pair of eyes in the room.
Typical tasks include:
• Setting up the exam room before students arrive
• Checking attendance and sometimes ID
• Reading out the official exam instructions
• Watching over students during the exam
• Walking around the room occasionally
• Making sure no one is cheating or breaking rules
• Collecting papers at the end
Most of the time, you’re either sitting quietly or slowly walking around the room.
If you’re someone who enjoys calm environments and doesn’t want a stressful role, this is actually a really nice way to earn money.
Where To Apply For Invigilator Jobs
This is one of those jobs where people assume there aren’t many opportunities… but schools are actually always looking for reliable invigilators.
The key is knowing where to look.
Schools and colleges
Your best starting point is local secondary schools and colleges.
Many of them recruit their own invigilators directly, so it’s worth checking their websites or even emailing to ask if they’re hiring.
Exam boards
Some exam boards also recruit, including AQA, Pearson Edexcel, and OCR.
Job websites
You’ll often see invigilator roles pop up on sites like Indeed, Totaljobs, and Reed.
Universities
Universities hire invigilators too, especially during big exam periods when they need people for large halls.
Academy trusts
Some academy trusts recruit centrally, which means one application could get you work across multiple schools.
When to apply
This is important.
Most hiring happens between January and March for the main exam season in May and June.
If you wait until exams start, you’ve probably missed the best opportunities.
How Much Do Invigilators Get Paid?
Let’s get into the bit you actually care about.
In the UK, most invigilators earn between:
£11 and £15 per hour
That said, your exact pay will depend on where you’re working and your level of responsibility.
Here’s a rough idea:
• Basic invigilator roles: £11 to £12 per hour
• Experienced invigilators: £12 to £14 per hour
• Lead invigilators: £14 to £18 per hour
Some schools also offer a minimum shift payment, which is great because it means even shorter exams still pay a decent amount.
How Much Can You Realistically Earn?
This is where it gets interesting, because although the hourly rate isn’t huge, it adds up quickly over exam season.
Let’s say you work:
• 3 hours per day at £12 per hour = £36 per day
• 5 days per week = £180 per week
• Over 6 weeks = £1,080
That’s over £1,000 from a pretty low-effort side hustle.
And that’s just doing one session per day.
If you’re available for morning and afternoon exams, or you work across multiple schools, you could easily increase that.
It’s not going to replace a full-time income, but it’s perfect for topping up your earnings.
Is Invigilating Worth It?
Honestly, it depends what you’re looking for.
If you want something fast-paced and exciting, this isn’t it.
But if you want:
• A simple, easy side hustle
• Flexible, seasonal work
• Something low-stress
• A way to earn without taking work home with you
Then invigilating ticks all the boxes.
It’s especially popular with parents, retirees, and anyone who wants to fit work around other commitments.
And once you’ve done it once and proven you’re reliable, schools will often invite you back every year.
Do You Need Any Qualifications?
No formal qualifications are needed, which is one of the best things about this side hustle.
However, you will usually need:
• A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
• Good attention to detail
• Reliability (this is a big one)
Many schools will arrange the DBS check for you, so don’t let that put you off.
My Honest Thoughts
This is one of those “quiet” side hustles that doesn’t get talked about enough.
You’re not going to go viral doing it, and it’s not going to make you rich overnight, but it’s steady, predictable money for very little effort.
Personally, I think it works best when you combine it with other income streams.
For example, you could invigilate during exam season, and then focus on things like surveys, cashback offers, or selling on Vinted during the rest of the year.
That way, you’re not relying on just one source of income.
