Part-Time Jobs for International Students: Studying in Canada is a big dream for many international students. It brings quality education, cultural diversity, and better opportunities. But life in Canada is not cheap. Many students need part-time jobs to cover living expenses and gain work experience.
With the right job, you can balance classes, earn money, and gain useful skills. This guide lists the best part-time jobs for students, their average pay, and tips for finding them.
Can International Students Work in Canada?
Yes. If you hold a valid study permit, you are allowed to work.
Students can work on-campus or off-campus. During regular semesters, you can work up to 20 hours per week, while During breaks, you can work full-time.
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It is important to follow these rules. Working more than the allowed hours can put your study permit at risk.
Why Part-Time Jobs Matter
Part-time jobs are more than just money. They help you:
- Pay for rent, food, and transport.
- Gain Canadian work experience.
- Build soft skills like communication and teamwork.
- Improve your English or French.
- Grow your network for future career opportunities.
- Adapt faster to Canadian life.
Balancing work and study can be hard, but many students succeed with good time management.
Best Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Canada
Here are the most popular and realistic jobs for students.
1. Retail Sales Associate
Retail jobs are easy to find in malls, supermarkets, and stores. Duties include helping customers, arranging products, and handling cash.
- Pay: CAD $14–$18 per hour
- Skills gained: Customer service, sales, time management
- Flexibility: Shifts can be evenings or weekends
2. Barista or Café Worker
Coffee shops are everywhere in Canada. Students often find barista jobs since they offer flexible schedules.
- Pay: CAD $13–$16 per hour (+ tips)
- Skills gained: Customer interaction, multitasking, teamwork
- Perks: Free or discounted drinks and meals
3. Food Service Worker
Restaurants, fast food chains, and catering services always hire students. Roles include waiters, kitchen helpers, or cashiers.
- Pay: CAD $13–$17 per hour (+ tips)
- Skills gained: Communication, customer service, teamwork
- Flexibility: Evening and weekend shifts
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4. Library Assistant
Working in your school library is a calm job option. Tasks include arranging books, helping students, and managing records.
- Pay: CAD $15–$20 per hour
- Skills gained: Organization, computer skills, attention to detail
- Perks: On-campus, quiet environment
5. Tutor
If you are good at math, science, or languages, you can tutor other students. You can do this on-campus or privately.
- Pay: CAD $20–$30 per hour
- Skills gained: Teaching, communication, leadership
- Perks: Flexible hours, high earning potential
Click Here to see some tutoring jobs
6. Ride-Sharing or Delivery Driver
If you have a car and license, you can work for Uber, Lyft, or food delivery apps like DoorDash.
- Pay: CAD $16–$25 per hour (+ tips)
- Skills gained: Navigation, time management, customer service
- Note: Check if your study permit allows this. Some apps may require full-time work eligibility.
7. Call Center Agent
Call centers hire students for customer support and telemarketing. Many jobs are remote, which makes them attractive.
- Pay: CAD $14–$20 per hour
- Skills gained: Communication, problem-solving, sales
- Perks: Possible to work from home
8. Research Assistant (On-Campus)
Universities often hire students to support professors with research. Tasks include data entry, proofreading, or lab support.
- Pay: CAD $18–$25 per hour
- Skills gained: Research, analysis, academic writing
- Perks: Valuable for your resume and graduate studies
Learn more about on-campus work rules.
9. Administrative Assistant
Small offices and campus departments need part-time clerical help. Duties include data entry, filing, and managing emails.
- Pay: CAD $15–$22 per hour
- Skills gained: Organization, office software, communication
- Perks: Professional work environment
10. Babysitter or Nanny
Families often need part-time childcare. If you love kids, this is a great option.
- Pay: CAD $14–$20 per hour (+ sometimes free meals)
- Skills gained: Responsibility, patience, communication
- Perks: Flexible hours, safe environment
Average Pay for Student Jobs in Canada
On average, students earn CAD $14–$20 per hour. Earnings depend on:
- Job type
- Province or city
- Your skills and experience
- Tips or bonuses
How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Canada
1. Online Job Boards
Websites like Indeed, Monster Canada, and Glassdoor post thousands of part-time jobs.
2. University Career Centers
Most schools have job boards and career offices that help students find on-campus jobs.
3. Networking
Talk to classmates, professors, or community groups. Many jobs are shared through word-of-mouth.
4. Walk-In Applications
Some shops and restaurants still prefer face-to-face applications. Carry your resume and ask if they are hiring.
5. Apps
Apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and SkipTheDishes allow students to work flexible hours.
Tips for Balancing Work and Study
- Do not take more hours than allowed.
- Choose jobs with flexible schedules.
- Set clear boundaries between work and study time.
- Use weekends and breaks to earn more.
- Remember that academics should remain your top priority.
Challenges Students Face
Working while studying is not always easy. Common challenges include:
- Long hours and fatigue
- Low wages in some entry-level jobs
- Adjusting to Canadian workplace culture
- Managing time for assignments and classes
Despite these issues, most students manage well. Strong time management and discipline make a big difference.
Rights of Student Workers in Canada
Students working part-time have the same rights as other workers. These include:
- Minimum wage pay (varies by province)
- Safe working conditions
- Paid breaks in some cases
- Protection against unfair dismissal
You should know your rights to avoid being exploited.
Final Notes
Part-time jobs in Canada help international students support themselves and gain work experience. From retail stores to tutoring, opportunities are available in almost every city.
The key is to apply early, prepare a good resume, and choose jobs that fit your schedule. Remember, your studies come first. A balanced life of study, work, and rest leads to success.