Work While Studying: How Indian Students Manage Abroad

Work While Studying: How Indian Students Manage Abroad

Are you an Indian student dreaming of studying abroad but worried about the cost? You're not alone. A recent report shows that over 65% of Indian students who go abroad work part-time to support their studies and lifestyle. With the right planning, studying abroad can be both affordable and career-enhancing — and in many ways, it can beat studying in India in terms of exposure, education quality, and global opportunities.

In this article, we'll explore how Indian students manage financially while studying abroad, the advantages over Indian institutions, and how you can turn this into a stepping stone for global success.

Why Studying Abroad Is a Smart Choice for Indian Students

Before diving into working while studying, let's look at why studying abroad beats studying in India for many Indian students:

Better Quality of Education

• Globally ranked universities

• Advanced research facilities and labs

• Updated, practical curricula

• Access to renowned professors and global scholars

Global Exposure and Networking

• Diverse international student communities

• Global classrooms that encourage cross-cultural learning

• Access to alumni networks across countries

• Opportunities to attend international seminars and exchange programs

Advanced Research & Learning Opportunities

• Many universities abroad offer funded research assistantships

• Direct access to live industry projects and global internships

• Hands-on experience from day one

Career Edge and International Work Experience

• International degrees improve employability

• Stronger resume with global internships and part-time jobs

• Access to global job markets post-graduation

Work While Studying: A Game-Changer for Indian Students

One major advantage that foreign universities offer — and that Indian universities mostly do not — is the legal ability to work part-time while studying.

How Much Can Indian Students Earn?

Depending on the country and the job role, Indian students can earn between:

• $10-$20 per hour in the USA, Canada, and Australia

• £10-£15 per hour in the UK

• €9-€14 per hour in many parts of Europe

Average monthly earnings range from ₹40,000-₹80,000, helping students manage rent, food, transport, and more.

Best Countries Where Indian Students Can Work While Studying

Tip: Choose a destination with a high student work allowance and post-study visa options.

Jobs Indian Students Typically Do Abroad

Here are some of the most common part-time roles Indian students take while studying:

• Campus library assistant

• Research or teaching assistant

• Café or restaurant staff

• Delivery jobs (Uber Eats, DoorDash, etc.)

• Freelance design, coding, or tutoring

• Retail or supermarket jobs
• Internships in their field of study

Many students cover 50-70% of their monthly expenses through these jobs.

Study Abroad Scholarships for Indian Students

Apart from earning, you can also reduce your tuition costs with study abroad scholarships tailored for Indian students:

Top Scholarships:

• Chevening Scholarships (UK) - Fully funded

• DAAD Scholarships (Germany) - Tuition and living expenses

• Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships (USA) - For postgrad students

• Eiffel Scholarships (France) - Master's and PhD students

• Commonwealth Scholarships - For studying in UK universities

Search and apply early — many of these close 6-9 months before the intake starts!

Studying Abroad vs Studying in India: A Quick Comparison

Common Questions Indian Students Ask

Can Indian students work part-time while studying abroad?

Yes, in most countries, international students are legally allowed to work 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during holidays.

Can I manage my living expenses through part-time work?

Yes. With smart budgeting and consistent part-time work, many Indian students manage 50-70% of their monthly costs.

Does part-time work affect my studies?

Not if managed well. In fact, many students report that working helps improve their time management and confidence.

Final Thoughts: You Can Learn, Earn, and Succeed

Studying abroad is not just about earning a degree — it's about building a life of global opportunities. With better education, exposure, scholarships, and the ability to work while studying, it's no surprise that over 1.3 million Indian students are currently pursuing higher education abroad.

Don't let financial concerns hold you back. With the right planning, you can study abroad affordably, work part-time, and create a successful future.

Ready to Explore Study Abroad Options?

Start today by researching universities, checking eligibility for scholarships, and shortlisting countries where you can work while you study.