Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Germany

Germany is a top destination for international students due to its high-quality education and relatively low tuition fees. To support themselves financially and gain work experience, many international students seek part-time jobs. International students in Germany can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks, in accordance with the regulations of their student visa.

Find the best study abroad consultants in Sri Lanka

Here are some popular part-time job opportunities for international students in Germany:

1. Research Assistant (HiWi)

Many universities and research institutes in Germany hire students as research assistants (referred to as "HiWi" in German). In this role, you assist professors or research teams with academic tasks, such as conducting experiments, analyzing data, or preparing reports.

Benefits:

• Experience directly related to your field of study.
• Work closely with professors and academic staff.
• Improves research and analytical skills.

Average Pay: EUR 10-15 per hour

2. Library Assistant

Working as a library assistant is a popular job for students, particularly those who prefer a quiet and academic environment. Duties typically include shelving books, managing library materials, assisting other students, and helping maintain library resources.

Benefits:

• Flexible working hours that fit well with study schedules.
• Calm working environment.
• Opportunity to study during quiet times.

Average Pay: EUR 9-12 per hour

3. Student Assistant (Werkstudent)

A "Werkstudent" is a student who works in a company or organization, often related to their field of study. This position allows you to gain practical experience and develop skills relevant to your career.

Benefits:

• Gain industry-specific experience.
• Great for networking and career building.
• Opportunity to transition into a full-time role after graduation.

Average Pay: EUR 12-20 per hour

4. Waiter/Waitress

Restaurants, cafes, and bars in Germany frequently hire students as waitstaff. This job involves serving food and drinks, taking orders, and interacting with customers. Many students prefer this job due to the flexible hours and potential tips.

Benefits:

• Flexible working hours (evenings, weekends).
• Interaction with a wide range of customers, improving language and communication skills.
• Opportunities for tips.

Average Pay: EUR 9-12 per hour + tips

5. Retail Assistant

Retail jobs in stores, supermarkets, and malls are common part-time opportunities for students. As a retail assistant, you’ll handle tasks like managing the cashier, restocking shelves, and assisting customers.

Benefits:

• Steady income and stable working hours.
• Opportunities to improve customer service skills.
• Often located in city centers or near campuses.

Average Pay: EUR 9-12 per hour

6. Babysitter

Babysitting is a common job for international students, particularly in big cities where expat families live. If you enjoy working with children, this is a flexible and rewarding job option.

Benefits:

• Flexible hours that fit around classes.
• Can improve your German language skills (if the family speaks German).
• High demand for English-speaking babysitters in international families.

Average Pay: EUR 10-15 per hour

7. Delivery Driver (Food Delivery)

With the rise of food delivery services like Lieferando and UberEats, delivery jobs have become a popular option for students. As a delivery driver, you can use a bike or motorbike to deliver food to customers.

Benefits:

• Flexible hours that suit your schedule.
• Stay physically active while working.
• Possibility to earn tips.

Average Pay: EUR 10-15 per hour + tips

8. Tutor

If you excel in a particular subject or language, you can offer tutoring services to local students or even your peers. English tutoring is in high demand in Germany, especially for younger students or non-native speakers.

Benefits:

• High pay compared to other part-time jobs.
• Flexible working hours.
• Great opportunity to practice teaching and communication skills.

Average Pay: EUR 15-25 per hour

9. Cleaning Staff

Many international students find jobs as cleaning staff in offices, homes, or even student dormitories. This job is relatively simple, often performed outside of class hours, and does not require advanced language skills.

Benefits:

• Simple tasks with flexible shifts.
• Work outside of business hours (early morning or late evening).
• No specific language requirements.

Average Pay: EUR 10-12 per hour

10. Event Staff

Germany is home to numerous conferences, trade shows, festivals, and events throughout the year, and many event organizers hire students for short-term jobs such as ticketing, crowd management, or assisting with event setup.

Benefits:

• Short-term, high-paying jobs during weekends or holidays.
• Experience working at prestigious events.
• Develop organizational and teamwork skills.

Average Pay: EUR 10-15 per hour

11. Call Center Agent

Call centers often hire students for part-time work, and there’s demand for multilingual agents. You may provide customer support, answer queries, or help with outbound sales calls.

Benefits:

• Improve language and communication skills.
• Flexible working hours.
• Opportunity to develop customer service experience.

Average Pay: EUR 9-14 per hour

Conclusion

Germany offers a variety of part-time job opportunities for international students. Whether you prefer academic roles like research or teaching assistantships, or more flexible jobs like waitstaff or delivery drivers, there are many options to explore. Always ensure that you adhere to the legal working hours and visa regulations set for students in Germany, which allow up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during academic breaks.

Part-time jobs not only help cover living expenses but also offer valuable work experience, develop important skills, and provide opportunities for networking and language practice.