For partners
The extent and the kind of work allowed during studies mainly depends on the location, the type of resident or student visa, and the institution's regulations where the student is enrolled.
-
Most of the European countries for the non-EU/EEA international students allow them to work for about 20 hours per week during the semester and often full-time during the winter and summer holidays.
-
In the UK, a student on a valid visa can work part-time (20 hours/week) in term time and full-time in the vacations/holiday periods.
-
Germany is one of such countries where students are allowed to work part-time (thus 20 h/week) during lectures and more during vacation.
These restrictions are to make sure that students prioritize their academic obligations — for international students, working too much might lead to violating visa or study-permit rules or even overload in academic terms for domestic students.
Typical Jobs, Earnings and Workload
The majority of students that work while attending school have part-time or casual positions. Typical jobs are in retail or hospitality (shops, cafés, and bars), campus jobs (library assistant, tutor, research help), internships, and basic office/administrative jobs according to their language and skill level.
The student may be able to earn enough to pay for their living costs, transport, books or something small, but never enough for a fancy lifestyle. In some countries the monthly salary might be enough to cover the basic needs — however, this greatly depends on the local wages, the cost of living and the number of hours worked.
For example — working 15–20 hours a week at or above minimum wage can take over a month to take care of rent, food, and study-related expenses without major interruptions to studies.
How to Effectively Combine Work and Studies
Working and studying can be a success story — if you plan well:
-
Start with a realistic weekly timetable having classes, study time, work, and rest in the right proportion. Give academic commitments the highest priority.
-
Look for jobs that are flexible/part-time and that allow flexibility in working hours or less time per week (retail, hospitality, campus jobs, tutoring), particularly during exam periods or when the course is heavy.
-
Overcommitment should be avoided — if your workload is already heavy with coursework, labs, or projects, don't pile more hours of work on yourself.
-
Take advantage of breaks/vacations wisely — many countries permit full-time work during holidays, which can help you earn more and not affect your studies.
-
If possible, choose work that is related to your field — internships or jobs associated with your studies will not only give you money but also build experience, CV, and skills.
Benefits of Working While Studying
Working while studying could be advantageous in several ways:
-
The cost of living, tuition fees, and daily expenses are offset — financial pressure and the need for loans or family support are reduced.
-
Work experience and soft skills are acquired (communication, time management, and being responsible). Part-time jobs, internships or campus work are adding worthwhile items to your CV.
-
It is a chance to establish networks, professional contacts, cultural/social integration (especially for international students).
-
Time management, discipline, and balance are developed — skills that are valuable for future employment and life.
Moreover, some countries allow students to remain after graduation and work gaining full-time experience. For instance, in the UK, there is a "Graduate Route" (post-study work visa) for students, allowing them to stay for a certain time and work.
Risks and Challenges
There are negatives — if not well-managed.
-
Risk to academic performance: working long hours can turn into less study time, less rest, and consequently poor grades.
-
Exhaustion, anxiety, pressuring time-management — mixing up studies and work is very demanding in terms of both mental and physical capabilities.
-
There may even be visa or legal consequences for international students if you overstep the work-hour limit.
-
There is no guarantee of high pay — many student jobs are low-wage; the money earned may not even suffice for living costs, particularly in costly cities.
-
Fewer social life, extracurriculars, and internships — hard work might exclude you from participating in campus life or personal growth.
Who Should Consider Working While Studying
The students who can do both work and study should be those who:
-
Possess excellent time management abilities and self-discipline;
-
Require financial independence or support;
-
Desire to acquire work experience, skills, and have their CV built;
-
Are studying in countries where part-time work is legally permitted and practical;
-
Are willing to set priorities and at times make trade-offs between pay, study, and rest.
If you are thinking of studying full-time and at the same time aiming for A+ (for example, hard courses, labs, theses), then it is better to very strictly limit your work hours or target only the shorter-term or flexible jobs (seasonal, evening/weekend).
Final Thoughts
The combination of work and studies can be a wise, practical choice — if you take care of it properly. It entails making a good plan, having realistic expectations, and being aware of the rules. If you do it right, it helps you to cover your expenses, gain experience and acquire skills which will be beneficial for you in the long run. But if it is done too much, it might negatively influence your academic outcome and health.
At the end of the day, the decision to balance work and study is a personal one — and success depends on self-control, time management, and knowing one’s limits.
Sources & Further Reading
-
International students’ part-time work rules in the UK.
-
UK university guidance on working while studying.
-
Work-study permission and conditions for students in European countries.
-
Guide to working while studying in Europe: rights, restrictions and tips.
