Studying in the USA can be quite challenging for many international students because of high tuition fees and living costs. Are you curious to know the best ways to earn some extra income while studying in the USA? You are in the right place! In this article, we will dive into part-time job opportunities in the USA for students. These roles suit a wide range of interests and schedules – from remote positions that leverage digital skills to flexible retail jobs that have to be in person.

We have listed the 15 highest-paying part-time jobs for international students in the USA. Whether it’s tutoring peers, delivering groceries, or working as a freelance graphic designer, students can build valuable experience while managing their academic responsibilities. This thoughtfully compiled article will help students navigate the competitive landscape of part-time employment, fostering personal growth and skill enhancement – all while bringing in some extra money.

How Much Can College Students Make from Part-Time Work?

While the federal minimum wage starts from US $7.25 per hour, individual states have the authority to set their own wage laws. As a result, minimum wages vary widely, with some states offering up to US $15 per hour, while others stick to the federal wage rate.

This means your potential earnings will largely depend on where you are studying.

Generally, wages for part-time student jobs range from US $7.25 to $10 per hour, especially for entry-level positions. However, jobs that require more specialized skills or experience often pay more than US $10 per hour.

One advantage of on-campus employment is that these positions frequently offer competitive wages, often meeting or even exceeding local minimum wage standards.

15 highest paying part-time jobs for international students in the USA

1. Campus ambassador
2. Barista
3. Teaching assistant
4. Library assistant
5. Receptionist
6. Research study assistant
7. Department assistant
8. Food runner or catering assistant
9. Sales assistant
10. Tutor or peer mentor
11. Shop assistant
12. Babysitter
13. Campus tech support
14. Customer service
15. Tour guide

1. Campus ambassador

Campus ambassadors represent the university by engaging with prospective students and encouraging them to consider applying. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy meeting new people and collaborating in a team setting.
Responsibilities may also include leading campus tours during open days, where you will share your personal experiences along with key insights and fun facts about university life.

Average wage rate: US $12.4 per hour

2. Barista

Working at an on-campus café can be a rewarding job opportunity. Along with perks like discounted – or sometimes free – coffee, it’s also a great environment for socializing and connecting with fellow students. The role is typically fast-paced and may include preparing beverages, assisting customers, and handling payments at the register.

Average wage rate: US $12.97 per hour

3. Teaching assistant

A teaching assistant based on campus typically helps oversee classroom activities and provides support to students who may need extra help. With prior experience, you might qualify for a more advanced teaching assistant role, which could involve independently leading lessons and grading assignments.

Average wage rate: US $13.94 per hour

4. Library assistant

A library assistant role offers diverse responsibilities, making it an excellent option for students looking to balance work and study in the USA. Duties typically include organizing and shelving materials, assisting students and teachers in locating resources, and suggesting helpful reading materials. You may also be required to support librarians with administrative tasks and assist in planning and coordinating library events during the academic term.

Average wage rate: US $14.06 per hour

5. Receptionist

University receptionists typically handle a range of responsibilities, including general administrative tasks, providing customer service, and managing communication with students and staff through phone calls and emails.
To find part-time receptionist roles on campus, it is worth checking with your university’s careers service. Positions may be available in larger departments, the student union, or other central university offices.

Average wage rate: US $15.48 per hour

6. Research study assistant

Working as a research assistant is among the highest-paying part-time positions available to international students on campus. The specific responsibilities will vary depending on the department, but may include assisting with ongoing projects, conducting research, maintaining laboratory equipment, and compiling data or results.
To secure a role in this area, strong organizational abilities are essential. Additionally, good communication skills and a genuine interest in the subject matter will give you a competitive edge.

Average wage rate: US $16.14 per hour

7. Department assistant

Serving as a departmental assistant is one of the most valuable on-campus job opportunities for international students in the USA, offering a chance to develop a wide range of transferable skills for your resume.Typical duties include delivering administrative and clerical support, managing departmental tasks, and assisting specific teams or project initiatives.

To be a strong candidate for this role, you will need solid computer skills, along with the ability to work well in a team, communicate effectively, and solve problems efficiently.

Average wage rate: US $16.44 per hour

8. Food runner or catering assistant

Alternatively, if your university has on-site dining options such as cafés or restaurants, you might be able to find part-time work as a front-of-house assistant or food runner.
Hospitality roles are known for their flexible hours, making them a great fit for international students looking to balance study and work while in the USA.

Average wage rate: US $16.74 per hour

9. Sales assistant

If your university has an on-campus convenience store or small supermarket, it can be a great opportunity to earn extra income while continuing your studies.
Many universities also operate retail outlets that sell branded apparel and merchandise, offering additional part-time job options for international students.

Average wage rate: $17.35 per hour

10. Customer service

A customer service representative is responsible for assisting customers by answering questions, resolving issues, and providing information about products or services. They handle inquiries through phone, email, chat, or in person, ensuring a positive experience by being courteous, efficient, and solution-focused. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential for success in this role.

Average wage rate: US $19.79 per hour

11. University bookstore assistant

A university bookstore assistant role offers responsibilities like handling sales transactions, managing inventory, and organizing book displays, making it an excellent option for students looking to balance work and study in the USA. Duties typically include organizing and shelving materials, assisting customers in locating resources, and suggesting helpful reading materials.
You may also be required to support librarians with administrative tasks and assist in planning and coordinating library events during the academic term.

Average wage rate: US $20 per hour

12. Tour guide

A tour guide is responsible for leading groups of visitors through specific locations, such as museums, historical sites, or campuses, while providing informative and engaging commentary. They ensure the group’s safety, answer questions, and share interesting facts or stories to enhance the visitor experience. Tour guides must be knowledgeable, communicative, and able to adapt their presentation to different audiences.

Average wage rate: US $22.86 per hour

13. Tutor or peer mentor

If being a teaching assistant does not appeal to you, but you are still interested in academic support roles, tutoring or peer mentoring can be excellent alternatives for international students working in the USA. These roles typically involve supporting fellow students with coursework, reading, or assignments. As an international student, you may bring a fresh perspective or unique approach to learning, which can be especially valuable to those you mentor.

Average wage rate: US $23.94 per hour

14. Babysitter

Working as a babysitter brings responsibilities for keeping children safe, entertained, and well-cared for while their parents are away. Duties typically include supervising play, preparing simple meals or snacks, helping with bedtime routines, and cleaning up after activities. Babysitters should also follow any specific instructions from parents and be prepared to handle minor emergencies calmly and responsibly.

Average wage rate: US $25 per hour

15. Campus tech support

A campus tech support assistant is responsible for helping students, faculty, and staff with technical issues related to computers, software, and campus networks. This includes troubleshooting hardware and software problems, setting up equipment, assisting with account access, and providing basic IT guidance. They may also support classroom technology, maintain devices, and escalate complex issues to senior IT staff when necessary. Strong communication skills and a good understanding of common technologies are essential for this role.

Average wage rate: US $28 per hour

Covering tuition fees, accommodation, and everyday expenses, it is no secret that university education can be costly. This is especially true for international students studying in the USA.

While deciding on the right university and courses is crucial when planning to study abroad, it is equally important to have a clear strategy for funding your stay.

Taking on a part-time job can help ease financial pressures and offer valuable opportunities to connect with others and build skills that strengthen your resume.

However, before you begin your job search, it is important to understand the rules and limitations surrounding part-time work for international students in the USA.

15 highest paying part-time jobs for international students in the USA

What are the limitations of international students’ jobs?

Although it is possible to study and work in the USA simultaneously, international students must be mindful of specific visa regulations. Violating these rules can jeopardize your student status and may even result in deportation.

International students enrolled in academic or English language programs at U.S. colleges or universities typically hold an F1 visa.

You can learn more about the U.S. student visa process here, but the key point to remember when it comes to employment is that F1 visa holders are generally permitted to work only on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.

This limit increases to 40 hours per week during official school breaks.

There are limited exceptions to the on-campus work restriction, such as in cases of severe economic hardship. If you believe you qualify, it is essential to consult your Designated School Official (DSO) for guidance on the employment options available to you.