Singapore, a global hub for education and business, is one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students. Besides top-notch universities and vibrant city life, many students look for part-time jobs in Singapore to manage expenses, gain experience, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
If you’re an international student wondering about the best part-time opportunities in Singapore, this guide will help you understand available options, eligibility, and tips to secure the right job.
Why Work Part-Time in Singapore?
Working part-time as a student in Singapore comes with many benefits:
- Financial Support: Helps cover living costs like accommodation, transportation, and food.
- Professional Experience: Boosts your resume with valuable work experience.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and other students to enhance your career prospects.
- Cultural Integration: Learn about Singaporean work ethics and culture firsthand.
Eligibility for Part-Time Work in Singapore
Before diving into the job options, you need to understand the rules for international students.
- Student Visa Restrictions: International students enrolled in full-time programs at universities approved by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) can work part-time.
- Work Hour Limits: Students are allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during semesters and full-time during vacations.
- Approval Not Required: No separate work pass is needed as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
Best Part-Time Jobs for Students in Singapore
1. Retail Assistant
- Description: Retail jobs in malls or stores are ideal for students looking for flexible hours. Duties include helping customers, restocking shelves, and processing payments.
- Pay: Around SGD 8–12 per hour.
- Benefits: Improves communication skills and provides customer service experience.
2. Food and Beverage (F&B) Staff
- Description: Positions like waiter, cashier, or kitchen helper in cafés, restaurants, or fast-food chains are widely available.
- Pay: Earn SGD 9–14 per hour, depending on the establishment.
- Benefits: Free or discounted meals during shifts, plus an energetic work environment.
3. Private Tutor
- Description: If you excel in a particular subject, tutoring local students is a great option. Subjects like English, math, or science are in demand.
- Pay: Rates range from SGD 20–50 per hour, depending on expertise and experience.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, good income, and an opportunity to share knowledge.
4. Freelance Content Writer
- Description: International students fluent in English can explore freelance writing jobs. This includes blog writing, copywriting, and editing.
- Pay: Typically SGD 15–30 per hour or per project basis.
- Benefits: Remote work, creative freedom, and improved writing skills.
5. Event Crew
- Description: Event jobs involve helping organize conferences, exhibitions, or festivals. Tasks may include registration, crowd management, and setting up booths.
- Pay: SGD 10–15 per hour.
- Benefits: Dynamic work environment and networking opportunities.
6. Delivery Rider
- Description: Part-time delivery jobs with services like GrabFood or Deliveroo are popular among students.
- Pay: Earn SGD 8–12 per hour, plus tips.
- Benefits: Flexible hours and an active lifestyle.
7. Library or Campus Assistant
- Description: Many universities offer on-campus jobs like assisting in the library, administrative departments, or IT labs.
- Pay: Around SGD 10–12 per hour.
- Benefits: Convenient location, easy tasks, and flexible hours.
8. Babysitter
- Description: Caring for children in local families is another rewarding option. Duties include supervising kids, helping with homework, and light housekeeping.
- Pay: Between SGD 15–25 per hour.
- Benefits: Builds trust and interpersonal skills.
Comparison of Part-Time Jobs in Singapore
| Job Type | Hourly Pay (SGD) | Flexibility | Skill Development |
| Retail Assistant | 8–12 | Moderate | Customer service |
| F&B Staff | 9–14 | High | Teamwork, multitasking |
| Private Tutor | 20–50 | Very High | Subject expertise, teaching |
| Freelance Writer | 15–30 | Very High | Writing, time management |
| Event Crew | 10–15 | Moderate | Networking, organizational |
| Delivery Rider | 8–12 | Very High | Time management, navigation |
| Campus Assistant | 10–12 | High | Administrative skills |
| Babysitter | 15–25 | Moderate | Patience, responsibility |
Tips to Secure a Part-Time Job in Singapore
- Prepare a Good Resume: Highlight your skills and experiences, even if they’re from extracurricular activities.
- Leverage University Resources: Many campuses have career centers that connect students to part-time jobs.
- Use Online Platforms: Websites like FastJobs, GrabJobs, or LinkedIn list part-time opportunities for students.
- Learn Basic Mandarin: Knowing a few phrases can give you an edge in customer-facing roles.
- Network Locally: Attend student events and meet-ups to learn about job openings.
Managing Work and Study Balance
Balancing academics and part-time work can be challenging. Here’s how you can manage:
- Prioritize your studies to maintain good academic performance.
- Opt for flexible or weekend jobs that fit your timetable.
- Use tools like planners or apps to track deadlines and shifts.
- Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
Living Costs for Students in Singapore
While working part-time helps, budgeting your expenses is equally important. Here’s a snapshot of monthly living costs:
| Category | Cost (SGD) |
| Accommodation | 400–800 |
| Food | 200–400 |
| Transportation | 50–100 |
| Miscellaneous | 100–200 |
| Total | 750–1,500 |
Why Singapore is Ideal for International Students
World-Class Education: Top-ranked universities like NUS and NTU offer excellent academic programs.
- Cultural Diversity: Singapore is home to people from different ethnicities and nationalities.
- Safe Environment: Known for its low crime rate, the city is perfect for students.
- Part-Time Work Opportunities: The city provides various flexible job roles to support students.
Final Thoughts
Working part-time in Singapore not only helps you manage expenses but also enriches your overall experience. From gaining professional skills to meeting new people, these opportunities make your time in Singapore memorable.
With a well-planned approach and the right attitude, you can balance academics and work, all while enjoying the vibrant culture and opportunities Singapore has to offer.