Guide for Part-Time Jobs for Students in Singapore
As a developed nation of the world, Singapore has rapidly become one of the top choices for international students.
Several students from worldwide aspire to relocate to Singapore for their higher studies. But we cannot neglect that Singapore is one of the most expensive countries.
There is no doubt in the fact that the lifestyle and standards of living in Singapore are no less expensive than in other countries at pinnacles such as the USA, UK, Australia, or Ireland.

Managing the proper quality of life while studying is a very big deal for the students, especially for the international pupils. The cost of living is big in Singapore that a student cannot afford to manage.
Thus, many international students rely on a part-time job to help their finances while they study. Not only international, but also local students, prefer to work part-time during their studies.
Why Most of the Singapore Students Seek Part-time Jobs
Although Singapore lies among the dream countries for students throughout the world to pursue their higher education, the expenses are also not a matter of negligence.
While the living wages in Singapore are sufficiently great, some additional money is always welcomed by the students, which can be earned through various part-time work options.
Students cannot overlook their livelihood needs and feel the necessity of looking for part-time jobs while studying in Singapore.
For several international students, getting admission into the top-notch universities in Singapore feels like a dream come true; however, the high tuition costs become a significant concern for them.
To ensure their studies are not affected by a lack of funding, many learners look out for part-time jobs. When visiting Singapore for studies, most students wish to work alongside their studies, as it not only helps them gain experience but also enables them to cover the costs of expensive courses and degrees.
Not only overseas students but also local native Singaporean students search for “part-time jobs for students.” There might be many reasons for this. Additionally, it is true that in countries like Singapore, the UK, and the USA, there is a trend of students working while studying to manage their expenses independently.
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Following this trend of becoming independent while studying, several school students or pupils who have just passed out of school feel inspired. These students start searching for “jobs for students in Singapore under 16” and begin working as early as they can.
In addition, while pursuing educational programs, students cannot always maintain a routine or relax after classes. Many prefer staying active by working, and the fact that they earn money for their efforts is a cherry on top. There may be many reasons why students hunt for flexible part-time jobs while studying at universities in Singapore.
Some of the main reasons why students look for part-time jobs in Singapore are:
- To maintain a standard livelihood
- Manage expenses
- Collect money for traveling and adventures
- To become independent
- High rent for accommodations
- Dining out
- Entertainment
- To contribute to their family
- Transportation (especially highly-priced rental cab services)
- Clothes
- Personal care
Part-time Jobs for International Students in Singapore
There are many part-time jobs for international students in Singapore that can help them manage living and study expenses.
Foreign students in Singapore who are living and working on student passes are allowed to work part-time said by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Singapore.
These students often seek part-time jobs for student pass holders in Singapore. As a student, you will find the list below of flexible part-time jobs for students in Singapore very helpful.
Here are the top part-time jobs university students look for in Singapore:
- Teacher
Teaching is one of the most common part-time job roles in Singapore, covering various subjects such as English, Spanish, Humanities, Chinese, Korean, Chemistry, and more. You can also apply for teaching roles in primary & secondary schools, high schools, and O and A levels. - Receptionist
Working as a receptionist in Singapore is a popular part-time job option. It helps improve your communication skills and builds a confident personality. - Counselor
You can explore counseling in your field of interest. By guiding and helping individuals in Singapore with their careers, you gain invaluable experiences interacting with diverse people. During the pandemic, online counseling has also become a successful option. - Product Distributor
You can choose to distribute products for various companies. While this role may feel exhausting at first, it provides a great introduction to marketing skills. - Waitress or Waiter
Many hotels and F&B industries in Singapore hire students for part-time roles as waiters or waitresses. This is a great way to gain customer service experience. - Brand Ambassador
If you have an influential personality, working as a part-time brand ambassador for a company is an ideal fit. This role allows you to improve your speaking skills and connect with new people while promoting brands. - Sales Assistant
If you are studying sales, a part-time job as a sales assistant can help you enhance your skills further and gain practical experience. - Food Delivery Staff
You can work in food delivery chains and earn money by delivering food. This flexible option is ideal for students who prefer setting their schedules.
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How Can Singapore Students Earn Part-Time?
Being a student, it is often challenging to maintain a quality living standard. Although students receive financial support from their families, there is always a desire for more—a drive to become independent and even contribute to their family’s finances.
Students can efficiently manage this by taking on part-time jobs while studying.
The multicultural workforce, supportive workplace policies, and the common working language, English, make Singapore an attractive destination for students to gain work experience, even after graduation.
For this reason, local and international students often search online with queries like “Can international students engage in part-time jobs in Singapore?” or “What are the part-time jobs for students in Singapore?”
Many international students in Singapore choose part-time work to help pay for tuition or living expenses. Today, approximately 75% of international students engage in some form of part-time work in Singapore.
For those planning to work while studying or after graduating from a Singaporean institution, it’s essential to be aware of work rights and any regulations that apply to international students.
What Kind of Part-Time Work Can I Do?
This is a common question among Singapore students intending to balance work and education. The type of work you can do largely depends on your student visa and communication abilities, rather than your specific course or skill set.
Therefore, the first step is to check your study visa restrictions.
Even if you’re a PhD student, you might not secure a job in your chosen field immediately. That’s perfectly fine, as any part-time job adds valuable experience to your CV and provides insights into workplace culture abroad.
How Do I Find a Part-Time Job During Studies?
Finding a part-time job can be challenging until you’ve arrived in Singapore and settled into your surroundings. You can start your search at your university’s job centre or employment office.
These resources often have listings of current job openings and can assist you with writing job applications, preparing your resume or CV, and getting ready for interviews.
Additionally, explore local job listings to familiarize yourself with opportunities and work practices. Being prepared for differences in workplace culture will improve your chances of securing a job.
Where Do Singaporean Students Find Part-Time Jobs?
There are several places and sources where Singaporean students can find part-time job opportunities. These include:
Online Job Websites
Students can explore online job websites such as JobStreet, JobsCentral, and Indeed. These websites have search filters that allow students to narrow down part-time job opportunities based on job type, location, and other preferences.
University Websites or Job Boards
Top universities in Singapore, including NUS and NTU, offer job boards specifically for students. These internal job boards often list roles like research assistants, event coordinators, or other university-related positions that provide flexibility and valuable experience.
Job Fairs and Recruitment Events
Career fairs and recruitment events are excellent opportunities for students to network and discover part-time or internship positions across various industries. These events allow students to meet potential employers and explore job openings. Keep an eye on announcements from major universities such as NUS Career Services and NTU Career and Attachment Office for upcoming events.
Retail and Hospitality
The retail and hospitality industries are among the most popular sectors for part-time jobs. Many students work as waiters, waitresses, or shop assistants in shopping malls and food outlets, allowing them to earn money while gaining customer service experience. Popular malls in Singapore, such as ION Orchard and VivoCity, often list part-time opportunities.
Social Media and Community Groups
Social media platforms like Facebook and community forums such as SG Part-Time Jobs feature numerous part-time job opportunities. These platforms allow students to find jobs that suit their schedules and interests.
Freelancing Sites
Freelancing platforms such as Freelancer and Upwork are ideal for students with specific skills. These websites allow students to find freelance projects in areas such as writing, graphic design, web development, and more, providing flexibility and a chance to build a portfolio
What will be the PayScale? Salary of Part-Time Jobs in Singapore
The PayScale will completely depend on the nature of your work and any additional benefits you may receive. For instance, if you work at a restaurant, you might get your dinner for free every night. If you work at a supermarket, your employer may offer you extra discounts on groceries and products you purchase. Similarly, other jobs may offer different perks as well.
Tips for Learners Before Joining Any Part-Time Job in Singapore
Any international student should take care of several things before starting work at any place in Singapore. Especially, they should ensure they possess a valid student work pass and obtain permission from the university or institute they are studying at.
One should also be well-informed about all the rules set by their university regarding part-time work, such as allowed working hours, working on regular days, weekends, etc.
When it comes to working, students must be attentive to the type of part-time job they choose. If you are thinking of working while studying in Singapore, you are not alone, as many international students seek employment during their studies.
While searching for a suitable job, it’s important to take several factors into account, such as the laws in the country of study. Also, consider how the job fits with your studies and lifestyle. A job should never interfere with your academic commitments.
A good job for international learners should:
- Fit a student’s lifestyle: Part-time jobs that leave enough time for your curriculum and studying or offer flexible working hours.
- Enable a student to develop stronger language skills: This is crucial for international students who are not native English speakers.
- Help a student integrate into a new culture: It should allow you to meet new people and make friends easily.
- Provide some benefits and perks: Look for opportunities that offer additional rewards.
- Offer valuable work experience: The job should help build a strong resume and open up more career opportunities in the future.
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Do Singapore Government and Universities Grant Permission for Students to Work While Studying?
In recent years, Singapore has become a prominent hub for international students, with many universities establishing their presence here. International students studying in Singapore are not permitted to work unless they are issued a work pass immunity under the Employment of Foreign Manpower notification. The Singapore government allows international students pursuing a full-time degree to work up to 16 hours per week during the academic term. During vacation periods, international students can work full-time.
No special applications are required if the work stays within the allowed hours, provided the student is enrolled in an accredited university recognized by the Ministry of Manpower.
However, universities have varying rules regarding part-time work for foreign students. Many institutions offer work-study schemes, enabling students to work part-time while continuing their studies.
Noteworthy Restriction:
It is strictly prohibited by law for international students to work in entertainment service organizations, as it could potentially affect public morals.
Part-Time Jobs for Students: Boon or Bane?
After all the above discussions, one major question arises: “Is doing temporary jobs for students in Singapore good or bad?”
Working is never bad for anyone, whether it’s done alongside studies or after completing educational courses.
It’s all about how a student maintains their routine, which determines whether a part-time job becomes a boon or a bane.
While there are no definitive “boons” or “banes” when it comes to working, it’s true that everything has two sides, like the two faces of a coin. Part-time jobs for students come with both advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Part-Time Jobs
- Earn extra pocket money
- Learn to manage your finances
- Gain various skills
- Build confidence
- Develop interpersonal skills
- Achieve greater independence
- Improve time management
- Expand your professional network
- Make new friends
- Gain valuable work experience
- Alleviate boredom
- Strengthen communication skills
- Learn teamwork
- Utilize free time constructively
Disadvantages of Part-Time Jobs
- Disruptions to studies
- Less time for assignment writing
- Lower grades due to time constraints
- Difficulty focusing on studies after a hectic day
- A tight schedule
- Limited time for self-care
- Increased exposure to stress
- Possible unhealthy habits (drugs and alcohol)
- Higher stress levels
Is there a substitute for doing part-time jobs in Singapore for students to help them pay for the cost of their studies?
Even though part-time jobs in Singapore may not produce substantial incomes for students in fully financing their tuition and other cost of living expenditures, they can still help curb the cost to some degree.
The question now is, Is there any substitute for the part-time jobs that will enable the students to recover the costs incurred?
The answer is “Yes.” Several financial benefits come in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans for international students looking to study in Singapore.
These are primarily offered by universities and other educational institutions such as the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU).
When calculating the total cost of studying in Singapore, a student can consider these financial aids to make their education in Singapore much more affordable. International students and local Singaporean students can apply for various scholarships at their institutions.
Some of the scholarships a student can apply for to alleviate the high expenses in this pricey environment include:
- NTU Fully Funded Nanyang Undergraduate Scholarships
- Singapore Government Scholarships for Southeast Asians
- Singapore Scholarship of the Embassy of the Republic of Singapore
- NUS Graduate School – Commonwealth Scholarship for Integrative Sciences and Engineering
- Public Service Commission (PSC) Scholarship
- SPRING Singapore Executive Development Scholarship (EDS)
- and many more.
Furthermore, the Singapore government also provides the “Tuition Grant Scheme” to international students, which helps full-time diploma or undergraduate overseas students to cut down their tertiary education costs in Singapore.
Singaporeans will automatically receive the tuition grant without having to apply for it.
However, foreign students who want to enjoy the benefits of the Tuition Grant Scheme must sign a Tuition Grant Agreement.
This means they must serve Singapore upon graduation for three years.
Students should know all these scholarships and government schemes available to help cut down their expenses as much as possible.
In addition to this, they can do part-time jobs to experience some relief, as the time will not conflict with that of their studies.
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Top 10 Home Based Jobs in Singapore for Students
“Want to earn money but don’t want to go out of your home”
Several students in Singapore wish to work with their education but they do not want to go out for that.
As in such a competitive world, survival without money or with less money is very difficult thus, every single Singaporean wants to earn more money either by doing a full-time office job, part-time job or by doing it from home.
Work from home provides a flexible environment as like drinking your coffee while sitting on your couch and completing your work or you can say “sitting on the beachside with a laptop and doing work”.
Singapore people can do work from home, offline or online without any kind of investment. But some people find it difficult to search for what work they can start at home.
According to our experts here are some top home-based jobs which Singapore students can go for along with their studies:
- Data Entry Job:
This is a very common job for those people who live at home. In Singapore, you can easily find data entry jobs. The only things you need to have are knowledge about MS Word, MS Excel, and data processing. There are large numbers of such types of jobs available out there in Singapore. - Content Writing Job:
Content writing is a key job as a freelancer. Many business professionals or individuals seek those people who can write for their website and can promote their service and company. For such kind of job, a person should have well command of English, writing skills, and grammar skills. You can also be asked to write on academic letters, copywriting, book writing, blog writing, etc. - Designing:
Designing is the most popular job in Singapore. Graphic design jobs include web designing, icon and logo design, banner and poster designing. The candidates only need to have knowledge about key principles, technique, and good communication skills. - Home Tuitions:
Home tuitions are another very popular job among the Singaporeans. There is a huge form of tuitions that can be provided and can be greatly rewarded. It depends on your knowledge that what you know, how well you know, and how well you can teach others. Reading and writing both are very common things, parents look for tuition. - Transcriptions:
The media industry has a great demand for transcriptions, who can transcribe their audio directions into a report. This is one of the most challenging jobs. To become a transcript, you are required to be educated and have command of the language, writing skills, and a pair of keen ears so you cannot miss even a single word. - Survey Job:
This is the most flexible job in Singapore or even worldwide. To get such kind of job you need to search those data research companies who are likely to do live surveys and then check with them if they are running with any, in which they require an additional staff for research. - Translation:
In translation, you will get a file in one language and you will be asked to translate it into the other language. To get this job you need to have great command of the language, typing skills, and good grammar in whatever language you are working and for translation, you need to be very fluent with both languages. So, in short, if you know two or multiple languages you can easily do this job. - Editing:
This is somewhat related to the content writing, in this you do not need to write about the topic but need to edit already written papers, the documents, thesis, papers, essays of students and business professionals. - Babysitting:
Babysitting is again a very common job available for Singaporeans. Babysitting normally involves taking care of different age groupsof children, including feeding them, sometimes bathing them, providing them with different entertaining games, and putting them to sleep at their scheduled time. Babysitting doesn’t need more skills only you need to be known with how to tackle so many kids of different age groups at the same time. This job needs a lot of dedication and patience. - Bookkeeping:
If you have knowledge of accounting this is a perfect match for you. To work as a freelancer, you do not have to be a certified chartered accountant, but you should have a piece of basic knowledge on bookkeeping.
These are the top 10 jobs you can do from home in singapore
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Singapore’s part-time jobs enable international students to gain work experience as well as develop important skills for life and earn more pocket money while studying.
Again, balancing work with academic engagements ensures success in both domains. Students should be aware of their legal requirements and the restrictions about the working hours and the nature of jobs that are acceptable.
While part-time work comes with its pros and cons, the right job can always be an added experience of learning for a student who would be in Singapore, alleviating not only the financial aspect but also personal and professional growth.
For those who prefer to not work part-time, options include scholarships, grants, as well as government schemes where students can manage tuition and their living expenses.
Above all, the secret to successfulness is choosing the proper work compatible with one’s studies and goals and well-being.