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Studying abroad while working is an excellent way for students to gain international experience, financial independence, and career opportunities. Many countries offer work and study programs that allow international students to legally work part-time while pursuing their education. These programs help students manage living expenses, tuition fees, and gain real-world experience.
his country-wise list of the best work & study programs in 2025 covers top destinations like the USA, Canada, Germany, Australia, the UK, and more, detailing opportunities available for international and domestic students. From co-op programs to on-campus jobs and post-study work options, this guide helps you find the best places to study while earning valuable work experience.
Choosing the best work and study program depends on factors like job opportunities, tuition fees, and post-study work options. Countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK provide the best work and study programs with flexible job opportunities and post-graduation work permits.
| Country | Work Hours (Per Week) | Average Hourly Wage | Best Work & Study Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 20 hours (during term) 40 hours (vacation) | $10 - $20 | F-1 OPT & CPT Programs |
| Canada | 20 hours (during term) 40 hours (vacation) | CAD $14 - $20 | Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), Co-op Programs |
| UK | 20 hours (during term) 40 hours (vacation) | £9 - £15 | Tier 4 (Student) Visa Work Rights |
| Australia | 24 hours (increased in 2023) | AUD $15 - $25 | Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) |
| Germany | 20 hours per week | €10 - €15 | Student Work Permit, Ausbildung (Vocational Training) |
| France | 964 hours per year (~20 hours/week) | €8 - €12 | Student Visa Work Rights, France’s Work & Study Scheme |
| New Zealand | 20 hours per week | NZD $18 - $25 | Post-Study Work Visa, Student Visa Work Rights |
| Ireland | 20 hours per week | €9 - €13 | Stamp 2 Student Visa Work Rights |
| Sweden | No limit (studies must be priority) | SEK 100 - 140 | Student Work Rights (Residence Permit Required) |
| Netherlands | 16 hours per week | €10 - €15 | Part-time Work on Student Visa (TWV Work Permit Required) |
Below is the full list of Study and Work Programs to select the right country and work-study program, where international students can gain valuable experience, financial support, and career opportunities while studying abroad:
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers funded opportunities for American students to engage in research, teaching assistantships, or graduate studies in over 140 countries. While not a traditional work-study program, it allows students to earn money while gaining valuable international experience. Students can work as English teaching assistants or conduct research, with funding which covers living expenses, travel costs, and some educational fees, making it an important opportunity for career development and cultural exchange.
Best For Graduate students and researchers looking for academic and cultural exchange experiences.
Link to Apply: www.fulbrightonline.org
The Erasmus+ Work Placement Program offers paid internships for students as part of their university studies in European countries. It provides the chance to gain work experience in different professional settings across Europe, helping students apply their academic knowledge in real-world environments. The program offers financial support to cover living expenses, travel, and accommodation, making it easier for students to focus on their work experience. It’s ideal for those looking to enhance their career prospects, improve language skills, and build an international network.
Best For Students enrolled in European universities looking for professional internships with financial support.
Link to Apply: ec.europa.eu
The CIEE Work & Travel USA Program offers international students the opportunity to work in the United States during their summer break, allowing them to gain cultural experience while earning money to support their education and travel expenses. This program is designed for students who wish to experience life in the U.S. by working in various seasonal jobs, often in hospitality, retail, or tourism sectors, depending on their interests and the employer.
Students not only earn money to help cover their tuition fees and travel costs, but also get the chance to incorporate themselves in American culture, interact with locals, and develop professional skills that can be valuable for future careers. The program also provides students with the opportunity to explore the U.S., visiting iconic destinations during their time off. It’s a great way to blend work with adventure, gaining both financial support and memorable experiences.
Best For International students seeking temporary jobs in the U.S. to fund their studies or travel.
Link to Apply: www.ciee.org
AIESEC’s Global Talent Program is a structured internship opportunity designed to help students gain professional experience abroad while earning a stipend. This program connects students with international companies across various industries, allowing them to work on meaningful projects and develop valuable skills. The Global Talent Program is ideal for students looking to enhance their career prospects by working in a global environment, gaining exposure to different cultures, and expanding their professional network. Additionally, participants receive a stipend to help with living expenses, making it a great way to experience working abroad while being financially supported.
Best For Students looking for career-oriented work experience while studying abroad.
Link to Apply: www.aiesec.org
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers funding and work-study opportunities for international students pursuing their studies in Germany. This funding can help cover living expenses, travel costs, and even tuition fees, making studying in Germany more accessible. Additionally, many German universities allow students to work part-time while studying, offering flexibility to earn money and gain work experience without compromising academic performance. These opportunities provide a great way for international students to immerse themselves in German culture while supporting their education financially.dying.
Best For Graduate and PhD students looking for research-based work-study opportunities.
Link to Apply: www.daad.de
Several countries offer Work and Holiday Visas, which allow students to study while also taking up part-time jobs to support their education. These visas are ideal for students looking to fund their studies and gain international work experience. They provide the flexibility to work while living in a new country, allowing students to immerse themselves in the culture, improve their language skills, and build a professional network—all while covering some of their living expenses. Popular destinations for Work and Holiday Visas include Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and several European countries, making them excellent options for students seeking both financial support and cultural enrichment during their time abroad.
Best For Students who want flexible, short-term work opportunities while studying abroad.
Link to Apply:
The J-1 Visa Work and Travel Program allows students from select countries to work in the United States during their summer break in seasonal and hospitality jobs. This program offers an incredible opportunity to gain work experience in industries like tourism, hospitality, and retail, while also earning money to help support education and travel expenses. It also provides a chance for students to immerse themselves in American culture, meet new people, and explore the U.S. during their free time. The program is a great way for international students to gain professional experience, broaden their cultural perspectives, and enjoy the benefits of working abroad.
Best For Students looking for a short-term, fully immersive work-study experience in the U.S..
Link to Apply: www.j1visa.state.gov
Many Canadian universities offer Co-Op (Cooperative Education) Programs, which provide students with the opportunity to gain paid internships while pursuing their studies. These programs allow students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, gaining valuable work experience in their field of study. The internships are typically integrated into the academic curriculum, providing students with the chance to earn money, develop professional skills, and build industry connections while completing their degree. Co-op programs are especially beneficial for students looking to enhance their career prospects and graduate with a competitive edge in the job market.
Best For Students seeking paid work experience related to their degree while studying in Canada.
Link to Apply: www.canada.ca
Program Name | Opportunities available in | Duration of work |
|---|---|---|
Fulbright U.S. Student Program | STEM, social sciences, humanities, and arts. | - |
Erasmus+ Work Placement Program | Business, healthcare, engineering, and social sciences. | Internships last 2 to 12 months |
CIEE Work & Travel Program (USA) | Germany, Canada, India, and Brazil. | 3 to 4 months. |
AIESEC Global Talent Program | Business, IT, marketing, and education. | 6 weeks to 12 months. |
DAAD Scholarships & Work-Study | STEM, business, social sciences, and humanities. | work 120 full days or 240 half days per year |
Work and Holiday Visa Programs (Australia, New Zealand, Canada) | Hospitality, agriculture, and tourism industries. | 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during breaks. |
U.S. J-1 Visa Work and Travel Program | Tourism, hospitality, and retail. | 3 to 4 months. |
Canada Co-Op Work Programs | Engineering, business, IT, and healthcare. | Paid internships, 4 to 12 months. |
Work-study programs provide students with financial support, international work experience, and career growth opportunities while studying abroad. Whether through research assistantships, cultural exchange jobs, professional internships, or paid part-time work, these programs help students fund their education while gaining valuable skills.
When choosing a work-study program, consider factors such as location, field of study, work opportunities, and visa requirements. With careful planning, students can study abroad affordably while building their global career prospects.