How to get a part-time job while studying abroad

Managing academic and living expenses can be an overwhelming experience for students studying abroad. The good news, however, is that many countries allow international students to work part-time during their course. While working part-time sounds like a good opportunity to both earn and learn, the real struggle lies in finding the suitable one. So what should a student do to get a part-time job while studying abroad? Let's find out. 

But before answering this question, it's important to know the advantages of working as a student abroad:

Benefits of working part-time as an international student:

While empowering students to become financially independent, working abroad helps a student to grow holistically and develop in-demand personality traits. Such opportunities allow students to meet people from different ethnicities and build networks which could lead them to better career opportunities. Working as a student also lets students learn essential skills like teamwork, leadership, communication, time management, etc. 

So how can one find a job abroad?

Here are some of the ways which could help students find a part-time job while studying:

Prepare a Resume/ Update the current one

The first and foremost step of preparing for a student job is to create a resume listing details about the student's academic qualifications, interests, strengths and other achievements. Students can also provide prior work experience (if any), as it would make the resume more impressive.

Enrol with the university's career centre

Every foreign academic institute houses a career centre dedicated to providing on-campus and local jobs to students and helping them build their professional skills. These centers help students frame job applications, prepare for interviews and answer any questions they may have.

Work on communication and social skills

Working in a foreign land requires students to develop certain skills before applying for a job. As they would be interacting with people from different cultures and religions, students need to work on their social skills and the ability to communicate easily with locals in their native language and enhance their social skills. 

Apply for on-campus opportunities

Many colleges and universities offer on-campus part-time jobs to international students in some of the most common areas such as campus library, bookstore, cafeteria, canteen, etc. There are, however, some less popular jobs which students can apply for, such as working as a teaching assistant or an administrative assistant. Students wishing to work on-campus should apply prior to other students as these are popular job options and get filled quickly.

Search for Internships

Another popular employment option is to enroll in internships which are a great way for students to work in areas related to their academic interests. Participating in an internship abroad not only gives students a chance to earn but also allows them to learn foreign job market skills. 

Explore off-campus work options

These types of jobs allow international students to explore employment options beyond campus boundaries, giving them a wider palate of options to explore. However, before applying for these jobs, students should thoroughly read and understand the regulations of off-campus work in the country, as not adhering to them may lead to the cancellation of their student visa.

Build network

While some students get a part-time job right away, others might need to wait weeks or months before finding a suitable one. This is why it is important to communicate with other students and meet people from different walks of life, as they sometimes have information regarding student jobs and may even help in applying for one.

Some of the high-paying part-time jobs students can apply for:

• Barista
• Receptionist
• Sales assistant
• Library assistant
• Teaching Assistant
• Campus ambassador
• Department Assistant
• Tutor or peer mentor
• Research study Assistant
• Food runner or catering Assistant

While working part-time helps reduce the financial stress on students, it also comes as a great way to hone the skills required for future professions. The nature of jobs students receive depends on the type of program they choose to study abroad; hence it is important to apply to programs that best match a student's interest and potential.

To find which program fits you the best, book a counselling session with Canam’s expert counsellors today!