Working part-time while studying abroad provides financial support, enhances budgeting skills, immerses in local culture, improves language proficiency, boosts professional development, offers networking opportunities, and fosters independence. It helps cover expenses, teaches financial management, and provides practical experience for resumes and personal growth.

Additionally, it's important to familiarize yourself with the regulations and restrictions on part-time work for international students in the country you plan to study in. Each country has its own rules regarding the number of hours allowed to work, types of employment, and any required permits or visas.

1. Canada:

In Canada, international students with a valid study permit are generally allowed to work both on and off-campus while studying. On average, the rate of pay is around 13 USD to 18 USD per hour.

• On-Campus Work:

You can work on the campus of the institution where you are enrolled without a work permit. There are no specific restrictions on the number of hours you can work on campus.

• Off-Campus Work:

As an international student, you can work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions. During scheduled breaks, such as winter and summer holidays, you can work full-time (30 hours or more per week).

• Co-op and internships:

Some programs in Canada include mandatory work terms as part of the curriculum. In such cases, students may be eligible to work full-time during these periods.

 

2. United Kingdom (UK):

The rules for working as an international student in the UK depend on the level of study and the type of institution you are enrolled in. On average hourly pay for part-timers in 8 GBP TO 15 GBP.

• Tier 4 Student Visa:

If you hold a Tier 4 Student Visa, you can generally work part-time during term time and full-time during vacation periods. However, the specific hours you are allowed to work may depend on your course level and the educational institution. You should check your visa conditions and consult the institution's guidance.

• Full-Time Degree Students:

Full-time students at a degree level or above can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.

• Students at Below Degree Level:

Students studying below degree level, such as foundation courses or English language programs, are generally allowed to work up to 10 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.

• Short-term study visa:

If you hold a short-term study visa, you are not permitted to work in the UK.

 

3. Australia:

In Australia, international students with a valid student visa are allowed to work part-time while studying. The average hourly pay for part-timers in Australia is between  20 AUD to 30 AUD.

• Student Visa (Subclass 500):

Under this visa category, you are permitted to work up to 40 hours per fortnight (two weeks) during the academic term. You can work full-time during scheduled breaks or vacations.

• Masters and Ph.D. students:

Masters by research and Ph.D. students are exempt from the limitation and can work unlimited hours.

• Work Limit Calculation:

The 40 hours per fortnight work limit applies on an ongoing basis. It is not limited to specific types of work or locations. For instance, if you work 20 hours in one week, you can work 20 hours the following week, as long as it does not exceed the 40-hour limit for that particular fortnight.

 

4. United States (USA):

The United States has specific regulations for international students who hold an F-1 visa. The average hourly pay for part-timers in USA is between 10 USD to 20 USD per hour.

• F-1 Visa:

International students with an F-1 visa are generally allowed to work on-campus part-time while school is in session and full-time during official school breaks. The work must be related to their field of study.

• On-Campus Work:

F-1 students can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus while school is in session.

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT):

CPT is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 students to participate in paid off-campus employment related to their field of study. It requires prior authorization from the designated school official (DSO).

• Optional Practical Training (OPT):

OPT provides F-1 students with an opportunity to gain work experience in their field of study after completing their program. OPT is granted by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and has specific application processes and time limits.

           Remember that the primary reason for studying abroad is to pursue your education and immerse yourself in a new cultural experience. While working can provide benefits, ensure it doesn't hinder your academic progress or limit your ability to fully engage with your host country. It's wise to weigh the workload and consider your ability to manage work alongside your academic commitments to ensure a successful and enjoyable study abroad experience.