Looking for work & study programs for international students? You’re not alone! Studying abroad while earning real-world experience is a game-changer. Below, we’ve rounded up the top 10 countries where you can balance classes and part-time jobs—plus tips to apply and links to get started.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Work & Study Programs for International Students?
Work & study programs let you earn money, gain skills, and explore a new culture—all while getting your degree. Many countries even help you stay and work after graduation. Let’s explore the best options!
1. Canada
Canada is a top pick for work & study programs for international students. You can work part-time, join co-op programs, and even stay after graduation.
Work During Studies:
- Part-time: 20 hours/week during school terms.
- Full-time: Work unlimited hours during breaks.
Post-Study Options:
Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to work up to 3 years.
Example Programs:
- University of Waterloo Co-Op: Paid tech and engineering internships.
- Seneca College Work-Integrated Learning: Hospitality and healthcare placements.
How to Apply:
- Check eligible schools here.
- Apply for a study permit with proof of funds.
Tip: Save at least $10,000 CAD for living costs.
2. Australia
Australia mixes world-class education with beach vibes. Its work & study programs for international students let you earn while you learn.
Work During Studies:
- 48 hours every 2 weeks during school.
- Unlimited hours during holidays.
Post-Study Options:
Graduates get 2–4 years to work via the Temporary Graduate Visa.
Example Programs:
- Professional Year Program: For engineering and IT grads.
- University of Melbourne Internships: Business and science roles.
How to Apply:
- Apply for a student visa here.
- Use your university’s career portal for job listings.
Tip: Network at industry events in Sydney or Melbourne.
3. Germany
Germany offers work & study programs for international students with free tuition at public universities. Win-win!
Work During Studies:
- 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
Post-Study Options:
Stay 18 months to find a job matching your degree.
Example Programs:
- DAAD Scholarships: Funding for research and internships.
- TU Munich Industry Partnerships: Engineering and tech roles.
How to Apply:
- Apply via uni-assist.
- Learn visa rules here.
Tip: Learn basic German to boost job chances.
4. New Zealand’s Work & study programs for international students
New Zealand’s pair outdoor adventures with career growth.
Work During Studies:
- 20 hours/week during term.
- Full-time during holidays.
Post-Study Options:
Get a Post-Study Work Visa for up to 3 years.
Example Programs:
- Auckland University Internships: Business and environmental science roles.
- Victoria University Co-Op: Tech and design placements.
How to Apply:
- Check visa details here.
- Use university career hubs for job leads.
Tip: Explore part-time roles in tourism or agriculture.
5. United States
The U.S. offers work & study programs for international students through OPT and CPT visas.
Work During Studies:
- On-campus jobs (unlimited hours).
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for internships.
Post-Study Options:
Optional Practical Training (OPT) lets you work 12+ months (up to 3 years for STEM).
Example Programs:
- MIT Sloan Internships: Finance and tech roles.
- Stanford Research Assistantships: Paid lab work.
How to Apply:
- Apply for an F-1 visa here.
- Use your school’s international office for CPT/OPT help.
Tip: STEM students should apply for OPT extensions early
6. United Kingdom: Work & Study Programs for International Students
The UK’s work & study programs for international students combine historic universities with modern career opportunities.
Work During Studies:
- 20 hours/week during term.
- Full-time during holidays.
Post-Study Options:
The Graduate Route Visa lets you stay 2 years (3 for PhDs) to work.
Example Programs:
- University of Edinburgh Internships: Business and arts roles.
- Imperial College London Co-Op: Engineering and tech placements.
How to Apply:
- Apply for a Tier 4 Student Visa here.
- Use your university’s career center for job leads.
7. France
France’s work & study programs for international students blend culture, cuisine, and career growth.
Work During Studies:
- 20 hours/week during term.
Post-Study Options:
Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit to job-hunt for up to 2 years.
Example Programs:
- Sciences Po Dual Degrees: Internships in politics and business.
- Sorbonne University Research Assistantships: Paid academic roles.
How to Apply:
- Check visa rules here.
- Use Campus France for program details.
Tip: Learn French to stand out in the job market.
8. Ireland
Ireland offer a warm welcome and career opportunities.
Work During Studies:
- 20 hours/week during term.
- Full-time during holidays.
Post-Study Options:
The Third Level Graduate Scheme lets you stay 2 years to work.
Example Programs:
- Trinity College Dublin Internships: Business and tech roles.
- University College Dublin Co-Op: Engineering and science placements.
How to Apply:
- Check visa details here.
- Use your university’s career hub for job leads
9. Sweden
Sweden education system focuses on innovation and sustainability.
Work During Studies:
- Unlimited hours if you balance studies.
Post-Study Options:
Stay up to 12 months to find a job after graduation.
Example Programs:
- Lund University Industry Partnerships: Tech and environmental roles.
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology Co-Op: Engineering and design placements.
How to Apply:
- Apply via University Admissions Sweden.
- Check visa rules here.
Tip: Learn Swedish to boost job prospects
10. Netherlands
The Netherlands’ work & study programs for international students combine top-tier education with work flexibility.
Work During Studies:
- 16 hours/week during term.
- Full-time in June, July, and August.
Post-Study Options:
The Orientation Year Visa lets you stay 1 year to job-hunt.
Example Programs:
- Erasmus University Internships: Business and social science roles.
- Delft University of Technology Co-Op: Engineering and tech placements.
How to Apply:
- Check visa rules here.
- Use your university’s career portal for job leads.
Final Thoughts
These work & study programs for international students are your ticket to education, experience, and adventure. Whether you choose Canada’s co-ops, Germany’s tuition-free degrees, or Australia’s sunny beaches, the world is yours to explore.
Ready to start? Pick a country, check the links, and take the first step toward your dream