Finding Work Opportunities as an International Student

Moving abroad for your studies is an exciting journey, but it often comes with the question of how to sustain yourself financially. If you're fortunate enough to have a job before moving abroad, consider negotiating a remote working arrangement. This allows you to continue earning while you focus on your studies. However, not everyone has this option. 

Finding a job while pursuing your education can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can turn your student visa into a gateway to numerous opportunities. Here's a guide to help you navigate the job market as an international student.

Understanding Work Restrictions

As an international student, your ability to work might be limited by your visa conditions. Most student visas allow you to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. While these limitations can impact your earnings, they shouldn't discourage you from seeking employment. Many students successfully find part-time jobs that pay up to $20 per hour or more, depending on the role and location.

Broadening Your Job Search

When job hunting, don’t fixate on job titles. Instead, focus on the skills you have and how they align with available opportunities. This approach broadens your chances of finding suitable employment. Here are some of the popular jobs for international students:

1. Tutoring: Share your knowledge in subjects you excel in. This can include academic subjects, languages, or even musical instruments. You can offer your services through your university, online platforms, or local tutoring centres.
2. Babysitting/Nannying: A flexible job that pays well and often provides the benefit of free meals and accommodation. Websites like Care.com can help you find families in need of childcare.
3. Support Worker/Patient Care: Gain valuable experience in the healthcare sector by working as a personal support worker, home health aide, or care assistant. This is particularly beneficial if you are studying a healthcare-related field.
4. On-Campus Jobs: Positions like library assistant, administrative support, research assistant, or campus ambassador are convenient as they are located within your university and often offer flexible hours that accommodate your class schedule.
5. Customer Service and Sales: Develop your communication skills and gain experience by working as front desk managers, or as customer or sales representative. These roles are always in abundance in offices, shopping centres and retail stores.
6. Hospitality: Work as a restaurant host, barista, kitchen hand, or waiter. The hospitality industry is always in need of staff, especially in university towns and cities. You can also consider roles in event management or hotel services.
7. Retail: Roles like retail assistant or personal shopper. These jobs often come with employee discounts, which can be a bonus if you enjoy shopping.
8. Fitness Instructor: Share your passion for health and fitness by becoming a personal trainer or fitness class instructor. Many gyms offer certification courses that can enhance your credentials.
9. Delivery Services: Work as a food delivery driver or courier. Companies like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Deliveroo often have flexible hours suitable for students.
10. Freelancing: Offer your services on freelancing platforms This allows you to work from anywhere and set your own hours.

Exploring Freelance Work as an International Job

Freelancing is an excellent option that offers flexibility and the potential for high earnings. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, and Freelancer connect you with clients worldwide. You can offer existing skills or learn new ones, such as content writing, graphic design, project management, virtual assistance, video editing, photography, and many more.

Maximising LinkedIn

LinkedIn is much more than a platform for your online CV, it’s a powerful networking tool. Make connections intentionally, especially with professionals and HR personnel in your target industry and country. Showcase your skills and experiences to attract potential employers. Participate in relevant groups, share your insights, and engage with posts to increase your visibility.

‍Tips for Job Hunting as an International Student

1. Target Shortage Areas: Apply to schools in countries with a workforce shortage in your field of interest, like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Denmark. This can increase your job prospects.

2. Balance Work and Studies: Choose jobs that don't interfere with your studies to avoid jeopardising your student visa.

3. Start Small: If you do not find your ideal job at the beginning, start small. It’s a step towards better opportunities. Get your foot in the door and work your way up.

4. Bank Accounts: Open a local bank account to receive payments. Geegpay offers instant USD, GBP, or EURO bank accounts online, making it easier for employers to pay you without stress and hefty exchange rates. A Geegpay virtual dollar card is also handy for online and contactless payments.

Advantages of Working While Studying Abroad

• Earn Money: The most obvious benefit is having extra cash to support yourself.
• Build References: Gain valuable references from local employers.
• Gain Experience: Enhance your CV with relevant work experience.
• Increase Job Prospects: Improve your chances of securing a permanent job post-graduation.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience and understand the local culture better.

Finding work as an international student might seem challenging at first, but with some planning, you can successfully land some of the best jobs abroad. Remember to balance your work and studies so that one does not negatively impact the other.