Part-Time Jobs for International Students: Work, Earn & Learn

Studying abroad isn’t just about lectures and textbooks—it’s also a chance to gain valuable work experience, earn extra income, and grow your confidence in a new country. Part-time jobs can help students manage their living expenses while improving their language skills and building soft skills like teamwork, time management, and customer service.

If you’re wondering what kind of jobs are available and what rules apply, here’s everything you need to know about part-time work for international students in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, USA, and Europe.

Why Work Part-Time While Studying?

• Support yourself financiallyPay for groceries, travel, and small personal expenses

• Gain international work experienceLooks great on your CV/resume

• Improve your soft skillsEspecially communication, adaptability, and time management

• Network with people in your host countryBuild local connections and references

Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students

1. Retail Assistant – Clothing stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores

2. Barista/Waiter – Cafés, restaurants, and bars (tips can add up!)

3. Library Assistant – Many universities hire students to help on campus

4. Receptionist/Admin Work – Offices, clinics, or university departments

5. Freelancer (Online) – Graphic design, content writing, tutoring, etc.

6. Delivery Driver or Rider – Using bikes or scooters (especially in Australia or Europe)

7. Tutoring – Help school kids or first-year students with subjects you’re strong in

8. Warehouse/Logistics Staff – Great during holidays or peak seasons

   
   

Country-Wise Work Rules for International Students (2025)

United Kingdom

• Allowed hours: 20 hours/week during term; full-time in holidays

• Minimum wage: Around £11/hour

• Work permit needed? No, if on a valid student visa

• Popular Jobs: Hospitality, university support, retail

Canada

• Allowed hours: 20 hours/week during academic sessions

• Post-April 2024: Canada temporarily lifted the 20-hour cap until 2025 (check updates)

• Minimum wage: CAD 15–17/hour

• Popular Jobs: Retail, customer service, campus jobs

Australia

• Allowed hours: 24 hours/week during term; unlimited during breaks

• Minimum wage: AUD 23.23/hour (2025 rates)

• Popular Jobs: Café work, Uber Eats, campus jobs

United States

• Allowed hours: 20 hours/week (on-campus only during 1st year)

• Off-campus work: Only with OPT/CPT approval

• Minimum wage: Varies by state (USD 7.25 to 15+)

• Popular Jobs: Library, cafeteria, research assistantships

Germany

• Allowed hours: 120 full days or 240 half days/year

• Minimum wage: €12+/hour

• Popular Jobs: Tutoring, delivery, student assistant (HiWi)

France

• Allowed hours: 964 hours/year (around 20 hours/week)

• Minimum wage: €11.65/hour (SMIC rate)

• Popular Jobs: Retail, cafés, babysitting, campus jobs

Tips for Finding Part-Time Jobs

• Use university job boards and student portals

• Check local websites like Indeed, Gumtree, or JobBank

• Visit shops and cafés in person with your CV

• Network with fellow students or professors

• Look into freelance platforms (Upwork, Fiverr, etc.)

Documents You May Need to Work

• Student visa with work rights

• Local tax file number or social security registration

• Bank account in the country

• Student ID or enrollment verification

• Resume/CV tailored to local formats

Balancing Work and Study

Remember: your academics come first. While part-time work is helpful, don’t let it interfere with your coursework.

• Choose flexible shifts that fit your schedule

• Limit hours during exam periods

• Stay in regular touch with your academic advisor if you’re working a lot

Final Thoughts

Working part-time abroad is more than just a way to earn money—it’s part of your growth. You’ll meet new people, build real-world experience, and gain a sense of independence that shapes your future.

Need help understanding work rights in your study destination? At Gateway Education, we guide you not only with admission and visas—but also with settling in and understanding work options in your new country.

Let’s prepare you to succeed—in and out of the classroom.