Part-Time Jobs in USA for International Students 2025

Thinking about working part-time while you study in the US? From 2023 to 2033, the US economy is projected to add 6.7 million jobs, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), making this an ideal time for international students to study in the USA. Under the F-1 Visa, students can work part time jobs in the USA for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. The minimum wage for part-time jobs varies by state but generally starts at $7.25 per hour. Let us explore the best part-time job options for international students in the USA and how you can legally work while studying.

Work Eligibility for International Students in the USA

If you are a Sri Lankan student planning to work during your studies in the US, it is important to understand the guidelines that come with your F-1 and J-1 visas to make the most of your opportunities.

• As an F-1 visa holder, you can work part-time in the U.S., but there are strict guidelines you must follow. Here's what you need to know about work eligibility:

• You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks, summer vacations, or holidays.

• Off-campus employment is more restricted and requires approval under specific programs. Here are the main options:

• CPT allows international students to take internships or part-time jobs in the USA directly related to their field of study.
• The work must be part of your curriculum and approved by your Designated School Official (DSO).

• OPT permits students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months (or up to 36 months for STEM majors).
• It can be pre-completion (while still in school) or post-completion (after graduation).
• You must apply for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) approval from USCIS.

Key Rule: If you work full-time CPT for 12 months, you lose eligibility for OPT later—so plan wisely!

• United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may authorize an eligible F-1 student to work off-campus on a part-time basis if on-campus employment opportunities are unavailable or insufficient.
• If you face unexpected financial difficulties, such as loss of sponsorship or a significant currency devaluation in your home country, you may apply for work authorization.
• To qualify, you must prove financial hardship and obtain approval from USCIS.

Best Part-Time Jobs for International Students in USA 2025

Here are some of the best part-time job options in the USA for international students, categorized by on-campus, off-campus jobs and online jobs.

• Library Assistant
• Research/Teaching Assistant
• Campus Cafeteria or Dining Hall Staff
• Student Ambassador or Administrative Assistant
• Bookstore or Campus Retail Jobs
• IT Support or Lab Assistant

Students can find off-campus job opportunities through university career portals, LinkedIn, Indeed, and industry-specific job boards. Always check with your Designated School Official (DSO) before applying to ensure compliance with visa regulations. Want to know more about the job opportunities for international students in the USA? Here is a good read.

3. Best Online Part-Time Jobs in USA for Students 2025

With the rise of remote work, online part-time jobs have become a great option for international students in the USA. These jobs offer flexibility, allowing students to work from anywhere while managing their studies. Here are some of the best online part-time job opportunities:

• Freelance Writing & Content Creation – Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer opportunities for blog writing, copywriting, and content marketing.
• Online Tutoring – Websites like Chegg Tutors and TutorMe allow students to teach subjects they are proficient in.
• Virtual Assistant – Assisting businesses with administrative tasks such as email management and scheduling through platforms like Belay or Time Etc.
• Graphic Design – Creating logos, social media posts, and digital designs using platforms like Canva and Adobe, with job listings on Freelancer or 99designs.
• Data Entry & Transcription – Inputting data or transcribing audio files for businesses through sites like Rev and Clickworker.
• Social Media Manager – Managing social media accounts for brands and influencers on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
• Customer Support Representative – Assisting customers via chat, email, or calls through companies hiring remote agents.

Online jobs provide international students with an opportunity to earn without visa restrictions, as they are not tied to U.S.-based employers. However, it's essential to check with a tax consultant regarding earnings and legal obligations.

How Much Can International Students Earn from Part-Time Jobs in USA?

Here's a general idea of what international students can expect to earn from part-time jobs in the USA:

• On-Campus Jobs: Depending on the university and location, students typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour.
• Research/Teaching Assistantships: These roles can pay $15–$25 per hour or offer a stipend and tuition waivers for graduate students.
• CPT/OPT Internships: Salaries for internships can vary, ranging from $15–$40 per hour, depending on the field of work.

If you work 20 hours per week, you could earn between $800–$1,600 per month, which can help cover living expenses. The federal minimum wage in the U.S. is $7.25 per hour, but many states have higher minimum wages. Earnings will vary depending on the state, job type, and employer policies.

Top 10 Highest-Paying Part-Time Jobs in USA for International Students

If you are looking for well-paying opportunities, here are some of the highest-paying part-time jobs in USA for students:

These jobs not only offer high pay but also help students build valuable skills for their future careers.

How to Find Part-Time Jobs in US 2025

• Most universities have career service offices with dedicated job portals listing on-campus employment opportunities.
• These centres often provide resume workshops, interview coaching, and job fairs to help students connect with potential employers.
• Check with your university's student employment office or career counselling services to explore available positions.

• Many part-time jobs in the USA are filled through word-of-mouth referrals, so talk to professors, classmates, and student organisations for job leads.
• Attend networking events, career fairs, and alumni meetups to build connections.
• Joining student associations, research groups, or volunteer programs can also increase job opportunities.

• Several platforms list on-campus and authorised off-campus jobs for students. Popular job search websites include:
• Handshake – A university-specific job platform connecting students with employers.
• Indeed – Lists both on-campus and CPT/OPT-approved jobs.
• LinkedIn – Great for finding internships and networking with potential employers.
• University Job Boards – Many colleges have internal portals for students to apply directly for campus jobs.

• Some on-campus jobs may not be listed online, so it's best to visit campus departments, libraries, dining halls, and student unions to inquire about job vacancies.
• Keep a resume ready, and be prepared to fill out applications on the spot.
• Some departments, such as IT support, research labs, and administrative offices, frequently hire students, so checking in person can be beneficial.
• Want a teaching or research assistant position? Speak with professors in your department. Many prefer hiring students they already know from their classes.

Making the Most of Part-Time Jobs in the USA as an International Student

Part-time jobs in USA for international students can be a great way to gain work experience, develop industry-specific skills, and supplement finances while studying. While many part-time roles offer standard wages, some positions provide significantly higher earnings based on skill requirements, industry demand, and expertise level. For students looking to maximize their earnings, jobs in research, technology, marketing, and tutoring tend to offer competitive pay.

Looking for more job-related insights? AECC can help! AECC provides expert support to help you navigate your journey successfully. Contact us to stay informed about exploring the best opportunities that align with your goals.