As an international student, what are the best countries to work and study?

Making enough money (and having a little extra to explore!) is a major concern of international students who are studying overseas. Luckily, many countries around the world allow international students to work limited hours and earn money according to local standards. If you want to work and study as an international student, these are the best countries for you to do so!

What types of jobs can you get as an international student?

International students who study abroad may find some limitations in their ability to work a job in their free time between classes and lectures. This is usually due to the nature and conditions of the student visa, which is granted for the primary purpose of allowing a foreigners to study in a country, unlike a work visa. However, most countries do allow student visa holders to work a limited number of hours per week.

On-Campus Jobs

Many universities around the world offer on-campus job opportunities, where you will be employed by your university and work in a classroom, office, or other facilities around the university campus. On-campus jobs have several benefits:

Get to know your school’s faculty and staff
Be in a strong position to help solve problems and improve campus life
Gain valuable work experience in an international office setting

For example, some common on-campus jobs allow students to work as a library or office assistant, research assistant, teaching assistant, or campus tour guide.

Off-Campus Jobs

There are also countries that allow international students to work on off-campus jobs. These jobs allow you to work for an organisation outside of your university alongside your studies, and often come with certain regulations listed on your student visa.

Some common job positions for international students include restaurant and cafe waiter, cashier or clerk, tutor, translator, customer service, and receptionist. Off-campus jobs are a valuable opportunity to learn about different industries, build your network outside of university, practice your language skills, understand the working culture, and immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Top 7 Countries to Work and Study

When choosing a country where you can work and study at the same time, consider factors such as work opportunities, post-study work options, the cost of living, and the overall student experience.

Let’s look at the countries which offer favourable conditions for international students to get jobs.

7) Canada

Canada is renowned for its welcoming attitude towards international students. If you obtain the proper permits on your visa, Canada has limitless working hours for international students in on-campus jobs. However, there are limited hours for off-campus positions. Internships, both paid and unpaid, are also widespread in Canada.

Graduates from Canadian institutions may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to gain work experience in Canada after completing their studies.

Some examples of popular student jobs in Canada include: working in the library or administrative office, bookstore attendant, tutor, campus guide, retail worker, cashier

6) France

France is another great country for international students looking to make money and practice French. In France, students can work 670 hours during the school year and 300 during the summer in on-campus roles, and even longer off-campus. Payment of at least a minimum wage is guaranteed!

Some popular jobs for international students in France include: language/math/science tutor, research assistant, cashier, or paid internship for course credits.

5) Germany

Germany is one of the most popular countries for international students because of its welcoming and flexible policies for students. International students are allowed to work part-time for up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year while studying. After graduation, there are opportunities to stay and work in the country.

In Germany, you can work on and off campus, including on an internship. Internships are generally paid if they last longer than three months. A summer internship is the perfect opportunity to make money during your time off studies.

Some popular jobs for international students in Germany include: babysitting, tutoring, waiter or waitress, research assistant, teaching assistant.

4) Australia

International students in Australia are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. Graduates may also be eligible for post-study work visas depending on the level of their qualification.

Many international students in Australia work in hospitality and food services positions, as well as retail, administration support, tutoring, customer service roles such as in call centers, child care and and seasonal agriculture/farm work.

3) New Zealand

New Zealand allows international students to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. Post-study work visas are also available for eligible graduates.

Popular jobs for students in New Zealand are in the hospitality and food sector, retail, administration and office support, tutoring and education, and call centers.

2) Sweden

Sweden is known for its high standard of living and excellent universities. International students in Sweden are allowed to work part-time while studying. There are no strict limitations on the number of hours they can work, making it more flexible for students to balance work and academics. Graduates may be able to extend their stay to find work.

Common jobs for students in Sweden are found through internships, retail, tutoring, hospitality and cleaning and housekeeping.

1) United States

While the United States can be more restrictive in terms of work opportunities for international students, some students may be eligible for on-campus employment or curricular practical training (CPT) related to their field of study.

Some examples of on-campus jobs that are popular among students include: library or laboratory assistant, campus tour guide, research assistant, student tutor, residential assistant.

Learn More

Remember, work regulations and post-study work opportunities may change over time, so be sure to verify the most up-to-date information from official government sources and your university. Ensure you familiarize yourself with the conditions of your visa, as you could run into trouble for not adhering to the rules. Finally, know that your situation will be unique compared to other students, so consider factors such as your language proficiency, cultural fit, and career goals when making a decision.

Get started on your study abroad journey by browsing programs and applying through the Global Admissions platform.