Studying abroad is exciting—but also expensive. From tuition and rent to groceries and transport, the costs can add up fast. Thankfully, many international students can legally work part-time while studying and earn extra income to support their lifestyle.
In 2025, part-time jobs for international students will be more flexible, remote-friendly, and better paid than ever. Whether you’re looking for on-campus work, freelancing online, or flexible service roles, this guide lists the best part-time jobs that pay up to $20 per hour or more.
Table of Contents
Can International Students Work Part-Time?
Yes—most international students are allowed to work under specific conditions depending on the country:
- Canada: Up to 20 hours per week during academic terms (off-campus or on-campus)
- United States: On-campus jobs up to 20 hours per week (off-campus requires authorization)
- UK: Up to 20 hours per week during term time on a student visa
- Australia: 48 hours per fortnight under current rules
Always check your student visa conditions and consult with your school’s international office to stay compliant.
Top Part-Time Jobs for International Students in 2025
Here are the best-paying, flexible, and in-demand jobs available to international students today:
1. Barista or Café Assistant
- Average Pay: $14–$18/hour
- Perks: Tips, free meals, flexible shifts
- Skills Needed: Customer service, multitasking
- Where to Find: Local cafés, campus coffee shops, Starbucks, Tim Hortons
Barista roles are popular among students due to their flexible scheduling and friendly work environments. With tips, total hourly income can exceed $20.
2. Library Assistant or Campus Clerk
- Average Pay: $15–$20/hour
- Perks: Quiet setting, networking with faculty, consistent schedule
- Skills Needed: Organization, basic computer skills
- Where to Find: On-campus job boards, student employment centers
These roles are ideal for students who prefer calm environments and consistent working hours, often within walking distance of their classes.
3. Tutor (Online or In-Person)
- Average Pay: $18–$25/hour
- Perks: Set your rates and schedule
- Skills Needed: Subject knowledge (math, science, language, etc.)
- Where to Find: Wyzant, Superprof, Preply, campus tutoring centers
Students with strong academic backgrounds or bilingual skills can earn well above average by tutoring other students or schoolchildren.
4. Retail Associate / Store Assistant
- Average Pay: $15–$20/hour
- Perks: Employee discounts, team environment
- Skills Needed: Customer service, inventory handling
- Where to Find: Malls, grocery stores, bookstores, fashion outlets
These jobs are often available part-time on evenings and weekends, making them ideal for students with busy class schedules.
5. Freelance Content Creator or Writer (Remote)
- Average Pay: $15–$30/hour (project-based)
- Perks: Work from anywhere, flexible schedule
- Skills Needed: Writing, blogging, SEO knowledge
- Where to Find: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com, LinkedIn
Students with strong English writing skills can take on freelance writing or editing tasks online—an ideal side gig that builds a portfolio.
Should you find this piece engaging, we kindly invite you to explore the wealth of content in our other articles:
6. Delivery Driver / Cyclist (Uber Eats, DoorDash)
- Average Pay: $16–$22/hour (plus tips)
- Perks: Flexible shifts, quick daily cashouts
- Skills Needed: Navigation, bike or car
- Where to Find: Delivery app sign-up portals
In cities where delivery apps are popular, students with a bike or scooter can earn decent hourly rates—especially during lunch and dinner peaks.
7. Teaching or Research Assistant (TA or RA)
- Average Pay: $18–$22/hour
- Perks: Academic exposure, resume building
- Skills Needed: Subject expertise, research or teaching interest
- Where to Find: University departments, professor announcements
Working with professors not only pays well but also helps students build academic connections that can benefit them in future graduate school or work experiences.
8. Tech Support or Help Desk (On or Off-Campus)
- Average Pay: $17–$22/hour
- Perks: Resume-building, problem-solving exposure
- Skills Needed: Basic IT knowledge, communication skills
- Where to Find: Campus IT departments, student employment offices
Tech-savvy students can assist others with basic troubleshooting and earn a solid wage while gaining real-world experience.
9. Social Media Assistant or Content Scheduler
- Average Pay: $16–$20/hour
- Perks: Creative work, potential for remote flexibility
- Skills Needed: Canva, Instagram, TikTok trends
- Where to Find: Startups, campus clubs, small businesses
If you enjoy social media, you can help local brands or university groups manage their posts, analytics, and engagement.
10. Event Staff or Brand Ambassador
- Average Pay: $15–$20/hour
- Perks: Free event access, short-term gigs
- Skills Needed: Outgoing personality, teamwork
- Where to Find: Event companies, job boards, promo agencies
Event roles are ideal for students who want part-time work without committing to a weekly schedule.
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs as an International Student
- Campus job portals (Career Center, Handshake, UniHub)
- Local job boards (Indeed, ZipRecruiter, Monster, Craigslist)
- Facebook groups (Search for “international students jobs in [city]”)
- Freelance platforms (Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com)
- Referrals – Ask classmates, professors, or local businesses
Always ensure the employer understands your visa limitations and that the job won’t exceed legal work hours during term time.
Tips for Balancing Work and Study
- Choose jobs with consistent schedules or weekend shifts
- Avoid night shifts that interfere with classes
- Don’t work more than legal weekly hours—this may impact your visa
- Track your hours and earnings to stay within tax or visa limits
- Make time for rest, study, and social activities—burnout is real
Final Thoughts: Earn Smart, Work Legally
Working part-time as an international student is not just about income—it’s also about gaining experience, building confidence, and learning how to manage time and money in a new country.
In 2025, jobs paying up to $20 per hour are available both online and offline. With the right mindset, a legal work permit, and a focus on balance, you can support yourself without compromising your studies.
