Work and Study Abroad: Countries That Allow International Students to Work
Studying abroad is an exciting and transformative experience, offering students the chance to learn in diverse academic environments and immerse themselves in different cultures. One of the major concerns for international students, however, is how to fund their education and manage living expenses while studying abroad. Fortunately, many countries offer opportunities for international students to work while pursuing their studies, providing both financial support and professional experience. If you're planning to study abroad and want to combine your studies with part-time work, here are some top destinations that allow international students to work during their education.
1. United States
The United States is one of the most popular destinations for international students, offering a wide range of opportunities to work while studying. International students on F-1 visas are eligible for on-campus employment for up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks. Many universities in the U.S. have work-study programs that provide students with part-time jobs within the campus, such as working in libraries, dining halls, or administrative offices.
In addition to on-campus employment, students may also apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing their degree. OPT allows students in certain fields, especially STEM programs, to work for up to 12 months (or 24 months for STEM graduates) in the U.S. This provides valuable work experience and helps students transition from academia to professional careers.
2. Canada
Canada is known for its welcoming attitude towards international students and offers many work opportunities while studying. International students studying at designated learning institutions are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks (like summer or winter holidays). Students do not require a separate work permit for on-campus work.
Canada also has a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) program, which allows students who have completed a program of at least eight months to work in Canada for a period equivalent to the length of their studies, up to a maximum of three years. This post-graduation work experience is a great way for students to gain professional experience and increase their chances of securing permanent residency in Canada.
3. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom offers international students the chance to work part-time while studying, which can be particularly helpful in managing living expenses in cities like London. Most students on a Tier 4 (General) student visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. However, students enrolled in a language course or a short-term program may have different restrictions on working.
In addition to part-time work, students who have completed a degree in the UK can apply for the Graduate Route visa, which allows them to stay in the UK for up to two years (three years for doctoral graduates) to work or look for work at any skill level. This offers students an excellent opportunity to gain professional experience in the UK job market.
4. Australia
Australia is another popular destination for international students who want to work while studying. International students on a valid student visa are allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight (two-week period) during the academic term and unlimited hours during holiday breaks. On-campus jobs like working in university cafes, libraries, or research projects are common, and many universities have job boards to help students find part-time work opportunities.
Additionally, the Australian government offers a Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485) that allows international graduates to stay and work in Australia for up to four years, depending on the qualification level. This visa provides valuable work experience, which can help graduates find long-term employment in Australia.
5. Germany
Germany is a top choice for international students, not only because of its high-quality education system but also because of the relatively low cost of tuition. International students from non-EU countries are allowed to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year while studying in Germany. On-campus jobs, internships, and opportunities in the hospitality or retail sectors are common for students.
Germany also offers the possibility of applying for a residence permit for graduates, which allows them to stay and look for work for up to 18 months after completing their studies. With its strong economy and a focus on engineering, technology, and research, Germany offers plenty of job opportunities for STEM graduates and other skilled professionals.
6. Sweden
Sweden offers international students the right to work during their studies without any specific restrictions on the number of hours. Students can work full-time while studying, as long as they meet the academic requirements of their degree programs. This makes Sweden an attractive option for students looking to fund their education and gain work experience simultaneously.
Sweden is known for its high-quality education system and strong job market, particularly in fields like technology, engineering, and healthcare. After completing a degree, international graduates can apply for an extension to their residence permit in order to search for work or start a business in Sweden.
7. New Zealand
New Zealand allows international students to work while studying, but the rules vary depending on the level and type of program. Students enrolled in a full-time program of at least 12 months are generally permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks. On-campus employment, retail jobs, and hospitality work are popular options for students.
New Zealand also offers a Post-Study Work Visa that allows international graduates to stay and work in the country for up to three years, depending on their qualification level. This visa provides an excellent opportunity for students to gain valuable work experience and pursue long-term career opportunities in New Zealand.
8. Netherlands
The Netherlands is an attractive study destination for international students due to its high-quality education system and student-friendly policies. International students from non-EU/EEA countries can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holidays. On-campus jobs, internships, and positions in the hospitality or retail industries are common.
The Netherlands has a strong job market, particularly in fields like engineering, technology, and business. After graduation, international students can apply for a one-year “orientation year” residence permit to search for work or start a business in the Netherlands. This provides an excellent opportunity for students to gain professional experience and secure a job in their field.
9. France
France offers international students the opportunity to work part-time during their studies. Students holding a valid student visa can work up to 964 hours per year (roughly 20 hours per week) during the academic term. Most international students take on jobs in areas like hospitality, retail, or as research assistants in university departments.
In addition to part-time work during studies, students can apply for the "Passeport Talent" residence permit after graduation, which allows them to stay and work in France for up to four years if they have a job offer in their field of study.
Studying abroad provides a wealth of opportunities, and being able to work while pursuing your degree can ease the financial burden and help you gain valuable experience. Countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, and Sweden provide favorable work policies for international students, making them ideal destinations for students who wish to balance work and study. Whether you're looking to fund your education, gain practical experience, or start your career, these countries offer great options for international students to thrive both academically and professionally.
