Working Abroad as an International Student: Best Countries to Explore

Studying abroad presents numerous opportunities for international students—not just academically but also professionally. One of the biggest questions that many students have is whether they can work while studying abroad. In this blog, we’ll explore the international student visa work restrictions, the best countries where international students can work while studying, and some practical advice for balancing work and studies during your time abroad.

Understanding International Student Visa Work Restrictions

Each country has its own set of rules regarding work for international students, which are governed by student visa regulations. Some countries allow part-time work during the academic term, while others only permit work in specific sectors, such as on-campus jobs or internships related to a student’s field of study. Work authorization can range from part-time to full-time positions during school holidays, but it’s important to adhere to local regulations to maintain your visa status. Always check the specific work rules for your destination to ensure compliance and to balance your work with academic priorities.

Can International Students Work While Studying Abroad?

Many countries allow international students to work while studying, but the type of work and the number of hours you can work depend on the country you’re in. In these countries, international students can generally work during their studies, but there are often limitations on the number of hours or specific types of work (e.g., part-time, on-campus, or internships). Here’s a look at some of the best countries where international students can work while studying:

South Africa

• Work Authorization: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term with permission. They can also work full-time during school holidays.
• Tip: Students must apply for a work permit in advance.

Colombia

• Work Authorization: Students with a valid student visa can work up to 20 hours per week.
• Tip: Work must not interfere with studies, and permission from immigration authorities is usually required.

Mexico

• Work Authorization: International students with a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
• Tip: Students often need permission from immigration authorities for any off-campus or part-time jobs.

New Zealand

• Work Authorization: Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays.
• Tip: After graduation, students may be eligible for a post-study work visa.

South Korea

• Work Authorization: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during school breaks.
• Tip: A work permit from the government is required for part-time work.

Ireland

• Work Authorization: Students with a valid student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during the summer.
• Tip: Students must follow the specific visa conditions and may be restricted to certain job types.

Italy

• Work Authorization: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
• Tip: Full-time work is allowed during school breaks, but the work should not interfere with the student’s academic progress.

France

• Work Authorization: International students with a long-stay student visa can work up to 20 hours per week.
• Tip: Students may also be allowed to work more during academic holidays, but the total work hours cannot exceed 964 hours per year.

United Kingdom (England)

• Work Authorization: International students on a Tier 4 student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks.
• Tip: No work is allowed if students are on a short-term study visa, and full-time work is only allowed during scheduled school holidays.

Hungary

• Work Authorization: Students can work up to 24 hours per week during the semester and full-time during school breaks.
• Tip: Students must hold a valid student visa to be eligible for part-time work.

Practical Advice for Balancing Work and Studies

If you’re planning to work while studying abroad, it’s crucial to maintain a good balance between your academic responsibilities and your work commitments. Here are a few tips to help you manage both:

• Know the Work Limits: Familiarize yourself with the maximum number of hours you are allowed to work per week and ensure you do not exceed these limits. Failure to comply can lead to visa issues.
• Prioritize Your Studies: Always remember that your primary purpose for being abroad is to study. Work should not interfere with your academic performance. Prioritize your study schedule and make time for your coursework.
• Look for Flexible Jobs: On-campus jobs or internships related to your field of study can offer more flexibility and less time commitment than off-campus work. These roles also provide valuable experience for your resume.
• Consider Remote Work: Some international students choose remote work to balance their studies and income generation. Online freelance jobs or virtual internships can be a great option if your visa allows it.
• Stay Organized: Time management is key. Keep a detailed calendar of your study schedule, work hours, and personal commitments to ensure you’re not overloading yourself.

Working while studying abroad offers international students the chance to gain valuable experience and support themselves financially. However, it’s crucial to understand the work restrictions tied to your student visa, as regulations vary by country. Whether you’re seeking a part-time job, an internship, or a full-time position during school breaks, make sure to comply with local rules and choose opportunities that benefit both your studies and career. By staying informed and balancing work with academics, you can make the most of your time abroad!

Opening a Foreign Bank Account: A Guide for Study Abroad Students

Setting up a bank account abroad as an international student may seem daunting, but it’s usually more straightforward than expected. Many host schools provide recommendations for banks or branches that cater to students. These suggestions can offer perks like better exchange rates, lower fees, or helpful guidance. It’s a good idea to check with your school first to see if they can steer you in the right direction.

How to Choose the Right Bank for Your Study Abroad Experience

Choosing the right bank while studying abroad is essential for managing your finances effectively. Explore local options, seek banks offering student accounts, and ask for recommendations from your host school. This ensures you benefit from low fees, student perks, and convenient services. Learn how to open an account, what documents you’ll need, and how it can enhance your experience of studying abroad.

• Explore Local Banks: Observe which banks are popular among other international students. Many banks offer particular student accounts with minimal fees or benefits that suit short-term stays.
• Ask for a Student Account: When visiting a bank, mention you’re an international student and express interest in opening a student account. This ensures the bank employee will guide you toward more straightforward options without unnecessary complications.

What You’ll Need to Open an Account

The process is typically pretty straightforward. You’ll need to provide a few essential documents:

• Multiple Forms of ID: Your passport and visa are crucial.
• Proof of Enrollment: A letter from your host school confirming your student status. Schools often have pre-prepared letters available on their financial or administrative websites.
• Local Address Confirmation: Some banks might request proof that you’ll live in the country for a set duration, such as a rental agreement or a letter from your accommodation provider.

After You Open the Account

Once your account is set up, you’ll likely receive some documents through the mail within a few weeks, including your account number and PIN. Be sure to carefully review the paperwork, sign where required, and return any necessary documents. Before long, you’ll have full access to your foreign account!

Is Opening a Foreign Account Worth It?

While having a foreign bank account is only sometimes necessary, it has several advantages. For instance:

• Avoiding Fees: You won’t need to worry about high foreign transaction fees or fluctuating exchange rates with every purchase.
• Convenient Phone Plans: Most international phone carriers require a local bank account for monthly plans, usually cheaper than pay-as-you-go options.

Ultimately, deciding to open a bank account abroad depends on your budget and needs for studying abroad. Some students find it helpful, while others manage just fine with their home accounts. Take a moment to evaluate what works best for your financial situation during your time abroad.

Essential Tips for Preparing to Study Abroad: Flights & Travel Planning

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but the logistics of preparing can feel overwhelming, especially when booking flights and organizing travel. From securing your visa to coordinating your flights, planning is essential to avoid stress later. This guide will help you navigate one of the most critical steps before studying abroad: booking flights.

Key Considerations When Booking Your Study Abroad Flights

Booking your study abroad flights and getting your visa should be a top priority. It may seem intimidating at first, but don’t worry—the process is more straightforward than it appears, and StudyAbroad.com advisors are here to help! Your international flight starts your overseas adventure, and it’s crucial to book carefully. Here’s what you need to know before booking to save time, money, and headaches.

Check Luggage Costs

Many airlines allow you to check two suitcases for no additional charge on international flights, but if you need a third bag, prepare for a hefty fee. While it may be worth it, knowing these costs upfront is critical. Some airlines may even charge for a second checked bag, so compare baggage policies and prices before booking.

Make Sure You Can Amend Travel Dates

While your semester’s start date is typically set, the end of the semester, particularly exam periods, can be less predictable. Exams often span 1-2 weeks, and you may only know your schedule by mid-semester. Some airlines charge high fees to change your return flight, while others offer more flexibility. You can also delay booking your return flight until you understand your semester’s end, or until you know if you’d like to stay in your host country to travel more nearby. Always choose airlines that allow flexible date changes to avoid unnecessary costs.

Consider Your Layover Destination

If your flight has a layover, you’ll need to decide whether you’d prefer it to be in the U.S. or a foreign country. Layovers in Europe are generally cheaper, but navigating a foreign airport can be stressful if you’re unfamiliar with the language. If you’re more comfortable with domestic layovers, paying extra for convenience might be the right choice. Ultimately, it comes down to your comfort level and budget.

When choosing a connecting flight, ensure layovers are at least 90 minutes to avoid missed connections—some airlines even offer free stopover programs. Be mindful of baggage fees by checking what’s included in your ticket and weighing your bags before departure. Confirm visa and entry requirements, as some countries require proof of onward travel, and avoid booking non-refundable flights if your visa is still pending or your plans after the completion of the program aren’t set.

Manage Costs and Discounts

To save on flights, take advantage of any unused air miles you or your parents have accumulated. Just be mindful of rising prices as your departure date approaches—booking early can save you money!

Also, pay attention to baggage weight restrictions. Most airlines allow bags up to 50 pounds, but exceeding this limit means extra charges. Don’t let this happen to you—pack smart!

Check for student discounts on platforms like ScholarTrip and StudentUniverse, which offer flexible fares. Lastly, consider trip cancellation insurance for added security—some U.S. credit cards may already include coverage.

Funding Your Study Abroad Trip with Federal Financial Aid

Planning your study abroad adventure is exciting, but financing the trip can feel overwhelming. Convincing your parents to support your dream of spending a semester overseas is one thing—asking them to pay for it can be another challenge! Thankfully, there are various ways to reduce the cost. If you’re already paying for college with federal loans or grants, you can use that aid toward your study abroad program—as long as both your school and the program are eligible. Here’s how to apply federal financial assistance to your study abroad experience.

Grants, Loans, and Scholarships: What You Need to Know

Let’s break down the types of federal financial aid available, and how each can help fund your studies abroad.

Grants

Grants are essentially free money from the government to help cover your education costs. The best part is—you don’t need to repay them! Two major need-based grants are available through the federal government. If your family’s income falls below a certain threshold, you could be eligible for:

• Federal Pell Grant: One of the most widely awarded need-based grants for full-time undergraduate students. Eligibility is based on your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), determined by your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): Like the Pell Grant, the FSEOG is need-based but is reserved for students with the greatest financial need. The amount you receive depends on factors like your level of need, when you apply and the funds available at your school, and your school’s policies. FSEOG awards range from $100 to $4,000 annually.

Your international school may also offer grants, so keep your search open. Broaden your search and apply for as many scholarships as possible to increase your aid chances!

If you’re a student already using federal financial aid for your education, you can use this funding to cover your study abroad costs. Start by filling out your FAFSA early to determine your eligibility. Then, meet with the financial aid office at your home school. If your school participates in federal student aid programs, they can guide you through the process, which may include necessary paperwork for both your U.S. school and your international program. StudyAbroad.com advisors can also help answer questions you might have.

If you plan to earn a degree abroad, this process may vary, so check with your chosen school to confirm their participation in federal aid programs. Ask all the right questions early to ensure you meet all the requirements!

Loans

If federal loans and scholarships don’t cover additional expenses, private student loans could help bridge the gap. Private loans typically have different terms than federal aid, such as varying interest rates and repayment plans. Your credit score will be a factor in determining eligibility and rates, so having good credit might allow you to secure better terms. Make sure to understand the terms of any loan you take on, including deferment and repayment options. There are a few different loan options available depending on your financial situation:

• Federal Stafford Loan: A Stafford Loan may be a good option if you don’t qualify for grants but still need financial assistance. This fixed-rate loan is available to undergraduate and graduate students attending school at least half-time. You can borrow from the U.S. Department of Education, regardless of your credit history.
• Federal Perkins Loan: If you have exceptional financial need, the Perkins Loan offers low-interest financial aid. Unlike other federal loans, this one is issued by your school, and you repay it directly to them. With a 5% interest rate and a 10-year repayment period, this loan can provide flexibility as you plan your finances after graduation.
• Parent PLUS Loan: If your parents are willing to help cover your study abroad expenses, they can apply for a Parent PLUS Loan. This loan allows them to borrow up to the total cost of your education, including tuition, housing, and supplies. The only requirement is that your parents pass a minimal credit check, as this loan is based on credit rather than financial need.

Scholarships

Scholarships are another excellent way to fund your study abroad trip, and like grants, they don’t need to be repaid. There are many scholarships opportunities available through StudyAbroad.com, each with eligibility requirements:

• Affiliate University Scholarship: If you’re a student or alum from a StudyAbroad.com affiliate university, you may automatically qualify for this scholarship. Check with your advisor to confirm your eligibility!
• Travel Correspondent Scholarship: Capture and share your study abroad experience through videos, photos, and blogs to earn up to $250 USD! Open to students participating in a StudyAbroad.com program. The scholarship amount is deducted from the final program fee. Apply within 10 business days of submitting your study abroad application by emailing info@studyabroad.com. Submission requirements may vary by program length. Be creative—your video or photos could be from anything, like a weekend trip or a casual outing.
• Alumni Discount: If you’ve previously participated in a StudyAbroad.com program, you’re eligible for a $250 USD discount on a future program of at least 8 weeks. The discount is applied to the final program payment.
• Early Applicant Discount: Submit your study abroad application at least 6 months before your program start date and your $95 USD application fee will be waived. To qualify, ensure your application is complete and inform your StudyAbroad.com advisor about the discount.

Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding can also be a great way to raise funds for your study abroad journey. Follow these steps to launch a successful campaign!

• Choose the Right Crowdfunding Platform: Selecting the right platform is key. We recommend FundMyTravel, designed specifically for meaningful travelers. Other options include GoFundMe, Fundly, Indiegogo, Kickstarter, and ScholarshipOwl.
• Plan Your Campaign: Set a realistic goal that covers tuition, travel, and living expenses. Craft a compelling story and engaging title explaining why studying abroad is important to you. Establish a deadline to create urgency and be transparent about how the funds will be used.
• Promote Your Campaign: Maximize your reach by sharing your campaign on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn. Send personalized emails to family, friends, and mentors. Engage with local businesses, schools, and community groups, and pitch your story to bloggers or local media. Show appreciation by posting regular updates, thanking donors personally, and sharing photos and experiences from your study abroad journey. Keeping supporters involved will encourage further contributions.

Crowdfunding takes effort and consistency, but with a well-planned campaign, you can successfully fund your study abroad adventure. Start your campaign today and make your global education dream a reality!

We highly recommend FundMyTravel—a platform created specifically for meaningful travelers!

Start Applying for Financial Aid Today!

With these options available, how do you decide which method—or combination of methods—is best for you? Some students use a mix of federal loans, scholarships, private loans, and savings to create a personalized plan that suits their financial situation and goals. Your school’s finance office can be an excellent resource for advice, and family or friends may also have valuable insight. The sooner you start exploring your options, the more confident and prepared you’ll feel when it’s time to go abroad!

Exploring Your Funding Options for Studying Abroad

Before packing your bags, let’s discuss how to finance your study abroad adventure. Don’t worry; robbing a bank isn’t on the list of options! There are six main ways to fund your international education:

• Scholarships
• Financial Aid
• Grants
• Loans
• Crowdfunding
• Personal Savings

While you can always start saving independently, setting aside funds might only cover some expenses. Luckily, there are other great options that can help make your dream of studying abroad a reality!

Scholarships: Don’t Overlook Free Money

Scholarships are an underutilized resource, often ignored simply because students feel overwhelmed by the application process. However, it’s worth your time to explore them. Start with a simple internet search for study abroad scholarships and speak with your school’s study abroad advisor to ensure you get reliable, up-to-date information.

Pro tip: Some scholarships may offer smaller awards but are less competitive. Don’t shy away from applying to multiple scholarships, as smaller amounts can add up quickly. In some cases, universities even offer scholarships to students who write a thoughtful essay explaining why studying abroad is essential to their academic or personal goals. Also, be sure to see if your host university or provider has any scholarship opportunities that you qualify for.

Financial Aid: Use Your Existing Aid Abroad

If you’re already receiving financial aid, you might be in luck! Many schools allow students to apply their current aid packages to study abroad programs. Verify this with your financial assistance office, as policies vary by institution.

If your school doesn’t have this option, take a proactive approach by visiting your financial aid office to explore any special aid packages designed for study-abroad students. Even if it seems like a long shot, asking about all available options is the best way to avoid missing out on potential funding.

Grants: Free Funds With a Purpose

Grants, like scholarships, don’t require repayment and are typically awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or specific project proposals. Some are offered by governments, nonprofit organizations, or even universities with dedicated funds to promote global learning.

Check for federal or state-level grants that may be available for international study, such as the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program in the U.S., which helps students with limited financial means. In some cases, grants may be tied to specific destinations, fields of study, or service commitments—so take time to explore your options and apply early!

Top Funding Options to Make Study Abroad More Affordable

Are you dreaming of studying abroad? Whether you’re looking to spend a summer exploring a vibrant international city, embark on a semester-long adventure, or even earn your degree at a foreign university, studying abroad offers life-changing experiences. However, the cost can sometimes feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—your dream is not out of reach! To help you get started, below are five funding options to help turn your study abroad aspirations into reality.

Scholarships

Scholarships are a fantastic way to fund your study abroad experience. In fact, many scholarships are specifically designed for students who wish to study overseas, covering everything from tuition to travel expenses. Start by checking scholarship directories and talking to your home university’s financial aid office, as well as your host institution and provider. StudyAbroad.com has several that you may qualify for! Remember, the key is to apply early and apply often.

Grants

Grants are similar to scholarships but often focus on specific academic fields or student demographics. They do not need to be repaid, making them an excellent option. Look for grants provided by government programs, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions. It’s worth researching to find hidden opportunities for which you might qualify.

Federal Financial Aid

Did you know that federal financial aid can sometimes be applied to study abroad programs? Depending on your program, federal loans, grants, and even work-study opportunities may be used to help fund your time abroad. Start by visiting your university’s financial aid office to see which programs are eligible for aid, and ensure all paperwork is submitted on time.

Private Loans

Private loans can fill any gaps left by scholarships, grants, or federal financial aid. While they must be repaid, private loans can provide the flexibility to cover additional expenses like housing, airfare, or daily costs. Shop around and compare interest rates to find the best option for you.

Personal Savings & Budgeting

Not everyone has a large savings account to draw from (especially students), so creating a savings plan can make a significant impact. Start budgeting early by cutting unnecessary expenses and setting aside funds for your trip. Every little bit adds up, and planning ahead can reduce financial stress when you’re abroad. You can also consider crowdfunding—many students successfully raise money by sharing their study abroad goals with friends, family, and supporters online.

Resources for Study Abroad Funding

By taking advantage of these options and planning strategically, the cost of studying abroad can become more manageable, opening up an exciting world of international learning and personal growth!