Part Time Work Options in Singapore for Indian Students

Singapore boasts some of the top universities in the world. A developed nation, it has rapidly become one of the top choices for international students. The close proximity of the country to India clubbed with easy visa processing rules has added to the many advantages of studying from Singapore. The article highlights the various available part-time jobs for Indian students in Singapore.

But we cannot forget that Singapore is one of the costlier countries. With the cost of living in Singapore almost at par with that of the USA, some extra money is always welcome by students which can be earned through a series of part-time work options. But what does the rule say about working while studying?

Work Permissions While Studying

According to the Ministry of Manpower, Singapore, international students on a Student Pass in Singapore are eligible to work part-time for about 16 hours a week during term and for unlimited hours during vacation, provided:

• They are a registered full-time student in one of the approved institutions
• They hold a valid Student Pass issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA)

It is important to note here that students studying in a university/ institution which is not on the list of approved institutions are not eligible to work part-time or full-time both during the term and/ or vacation.

Please remember that during the term, a student must keep in mind that the work must be:

• Limited to a maximum of 16 hours a week
• Should be under the industrial attachment program conducted by your university or educational institute and contribute towards graduation requirements.

What students must understand here is even if you are studying in an approved university, if the university does not have an industrial attachment program (neither compulsory nor elective), then you are not eligible for part-time work.

Part-Time Jobs in Singapore for Students

If you're planning to pursue your higher education in Singapore and wish to work alongside studying, the good news is that it is very much permitted. International students can work part-time provided they follow the set rules for the same and adhere to the set restrictions. There are certain directions framed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Singapore which make sure that students are giving equal importance to their studies and work. In no way the education needs to be compromised. 

Overseas students who are in full-time programmes at reputed colleges or universities in the country are allowed to get into part-time jobs during their term period. During holidays they can pick up full-time jobs. How many hours can they dedicate doing the same depends upon their level of programme, immigration status and their college. Generally, students can work for a maximum of 16 hours every week during term time. Before opting for a part-time job, students should get their work passes.

Many universities also have partnerships with industrial houses which would provide the students with a part-time working opportunity.

So, if you are planning to study in Singapore, make sure to check with the University if the program comes with industrial experience or not to determine if you would be able to work in the country.

Part-Time Job Options

Advantages of Part-Time Jobs for Students

A part-time job does not only let you earn pocket money but also offers various other below-mentioned benefits:

Financial Self-Sufficiency: Students taking up a part-time job along with studies develop a sense of financial independence. The money or salary they get helps them manage their basic expenses such as the cost of housing, purchasing food and beverages, buying items of daily needs, and sometimes also the tuition fees.

Gaining New Skills: Whichever job or internship you take up will help you develop various useful social and leadership skills. You will be meeting and interacting with many new people with different perspectives and expertise. This may push you to learn about the skills they possess and many times you would end up developing the same. Skills such as time management, problem-handling, teamwork, etc., will help you in both professional as well as academic domains.

Building Network: Part-time work will help one broaden his/her professional network and may help him/her in the future with regard to searching for new jobs or switching. Make sure you maintain good ties and stay in touch with your colleagues and mentors for future benefits.

Multitasking: You will learn time management when you multitask, i.e., managing both your studies and job. This will not only boost your confidence but will also make you believe in your mental strength which will help you achieve two targets together.

Read

• Job Prospects for Indian Students in Singapore