Many students who go abroad to study try to cover their study expenses by working in their free time.
Finding a job can take time, and the results will depend on how actively you search, as well as on the city you live in and the job market in that country. Usually, to cover living expenses, students need to work 12–15 hours per week (2–3 hours per day). This workload is generally manageable alongside studies. We do not recommend working more than that, as it may harm your academic performance. Remember, your main goal is to successfully complete your studies!
Most students work in the service sector. In some countries, it is possible to earn up to €14 per hour. If you want to find out exact information about job opportunities in your chosen country, you can get in touch with students who are already studying there.
Important! You should not submit an application to a university abroad if your main intention is only to work there.
Remember, your most important job is to be an exemplary student! |
Tips for finding a job abroad
Before you start looking for a job, you need to understand that finding one abroad won’t be easy. You will only get a job if you actively search for it. You know the saying – “The one who seeks, finds!”
- Inform your friends, classmates, lecturers, and anyone else you know that you’re looking for part-time work. They might help you or recommend a job opening. The more people know you’re job hunting, the easier it will be to find one!
- The most effective and fastest way to get results is to print 100–150 copies of your CV and spend a few days visiting companies, shops, factories, schools, and other places where student jobs might be available. At each place, ask about job opportunities—often you’ll be introduced to the person responsible, introduce yourself, and leave your CV. After many such visits, there’s a high chance you’ll receive at least a few job offers.
- Keep an eye on shop windows and notice boards in shopping centres—some companies post part-time job ads there, and shopping centres often have dedicated notice boards. While walking around town, don’t forget to check shop displays.
- Look for jobs online. You can use Google Translate if the job ads aren’t in English. Once you find a suitable posting, ask your university’s international office coordinator to call the company for you the first time, or go directly in person with your CV.
- Contact recruitment agencies that offer temporary or one-off student jobs.
- Check with your university—sometimes they have a few job positions for their students (e.g. cleaning labs, etc.).
- Consider companies like Bolt, Wolt, Uber, DPD, Barbora, and similar—they’re often looking for staff with flexible schedules.
Requirements for working and living abroad
European Union (EU) citizens planning to work in other EU countries can do so without restrictions. However, you will first need to register at the city municipality. Registration rules may vary between municipalities, so to register you should contact the university you have been admitted to (as universities often help their international students handle this paperwork) or directly reach out to the administration of the city where you will live. They will provide you with the exact registration procedure. Once registered, you will be issued a resident number, which will be required for employment, opening a bank account, and handling various other administrative matters.
Required documents:
- Identity document
- Two/four passport-sized photos
- Letter of acceptance to the university
