How to Make Money as an International Student in the US

International students face a life of hardships and challenges. Most spend a considerable sum to move to a new country and adjust to its environment in search of a better life. Also, they have constraints that allow them to work only 20 hours a week. Students often face difficulties managing their finances and seek opportunities to earn more.

This article guides international students and allows them to explore the side hustles they can pursue in the US. It helps them understand which jobs are available for international students to help them overcome their economic conditions. The right opportunity can help them learn new skills and provide them with sufficient funds for the time being. Here’s how you can make money as an international student in the US.

Ways to Make Money as an International Student

Every international student seeks to work to maintain their lifestyle in a new country. Studying abroad is exciting but often puts enormous financial strain on your future. You can reduce that burden and learn some skills with a regular income.

How to Build a Flexible Income Stream

The best way to start your income stream is to look for on-campus employment. Many universities offer part-time positions to help students cover living expenses and manage academic communities. In addition, students can work as freelancers, tutor language, or do small jobs such as walking. If one needs a more streamlined form of work, one can find part-time jobs in the retail or food industry. 

Steps to Make Money as an International Student in the US

There are multiple ways to generate income as an international student in the US. However, it depends on one’s schedule and skills and how one wants to spend time. Students with less time for work often seek flexible jobs such as freelance work. You can try dog walking or gardening if you can work more but cannot due to the 20-hour-per-week time constraint. These odd jobs pay over $40 an hour and are not a form of work but a favor. 

On-Campus Work Opportunities

Work-Study Programs and Federal Work-Study Awards

Working on campus is one of the best ways to earn money as an international student. The universities understand your dilemma and offer you to work in work-study programs to earn some cash. They also ask you to work at university events and functions, including sports or orientation programs. You can learn management skills and resolve student affairs with your leadership skills. 

Research Assistant and Lab Technician Positions

You can also work with a professor as a research assistant to support their research and help them with their projects. You can learn more about the subject and interact with professors one-on-one to learn more. Universities also offer job positions for lab assistants, which can help you earn money and understand each piece of equipment in labs well. 

Administrative Support Roles in University Departments

You can also sharpen your skills in administration and help your university with support roles. You can check with your university departments for any such job openings. 

Library Assistant Jobs on Campus

Becoming a library assistant is an international student’s most straightforward yet achievable job. They can help assist at the front desk or return books to the shelf. This job will allow you to access books in the library throughout your job and will allow you to study while working. 

Off-Campus Work Options with CPT Authorization

Internships Directly Related to Your Field of Study

There are various job opportunities available that align with your career interests. You can seek jobs with your university’s career services and work there to boost your knowledge and finances. Universities often have local networks about companies looking for interns. These internships can help you get exposure and experience in a field that interests you and will add spark to your portfolio. 

Short-Term Work Related to Your Academic Program

You can also look for internships off campus that need interns for a short period or a small project. Such projects can help you learn teamwork, provide experience, and help you with your placements. Academic internships are a great way to learn and earn if you need financial assistance. 

Exploring OPT for Post-Graduation Work

Pre-Completion OPT During Your Studies

OPT, or Optional practical training, is a 12-month work authorization for students who are studying in the US for two consecutive semesters. This allows students to seek employment in their field of study. One can only apply for pre-completion OPT after all their course is done. Only the thesis is left.

Post-Completion OPT for Full-Time Employment

Any student who has resided in the US for the last two semesters can apply for post-completion OPT for full-time employment. Students who want to study further while living in the US can also apply for these to work and learn together. You apply for OPT, and it typically takes 90-120 days for the USCIS to process it.

Read Related Article: How to Make Money As a Homeschool Mom.

Alternative Income Streams for International Students

Online Tutoring and Language Instruction Services

Every international student has an edge in understanding languages other than English. Some speak Japanese, Korean, Hindi, Spanish, or even French. You can use these skills to earn money by tutoring other students. US students mostly know English as their only language but are interested in learning different languages. You can use your skills to teach on Chegg, tutor.com, and other websites to earn money. 

Freelancing and remote work in areas of expertise (Writing, Design, Etc.)

If you have skills in writing or Photoshop, you can also work remotely as a freelancer. You can share your work with online clients from apps like Fiverr or Upwork. Various job opportunities exist for content writers, web designers, logo making, and digital marketing. If you want to work remotely, you can also learn these skills at affordable prices online.   

Paid Online Surveys and Research Studies (Limited Earning Potential)

Some websites, such as Swagbucks or Survey Junkie, offer a source of earning to international students. You can help these websites in their market research analysis by participating in surveys to become accessible and flexible. These paid surveys are simply like earning money to answer a questionnaire. 

Selling Crafts or Handmade Products Online (Consider Regulations)

You can also sell small crafts or handmade products online to earn money, but it requires a work permit. However, you can only sell products within the US with business licensing or taxation permits. Depending on the state in which you reside, there are several regulations you must consider. You must consult an attorney to understand the rules and regulations based on your visa and work permit status. 

How to Maximize Your Earnings as an International Student

Time Management Strategies for Balancing Work and Studies

It is no wonder that you can manage a lifestyle in a foreign country with a regular source of income. But how do you manage work when your priority should be studying? The secret here lies in time management. One must plan their work for a few hours daily and manage their studies accordingly. They must always prioritize their studies and keep their work portfolios flexible to adjust their routine. 

You can try time-saving strategies such as multitasking and reading while you travel, listening to audiobooks, and finishing assignments on your week off. You can also get help from classmates to understand topics you might miss due to your work. 

Finding Affordable Housing and Living Expenses as an International Student

The next idea is to earn more money by spending less. Affordable housing and minimum living expenses can help you live a comfortable life despite your lower earnings. You can consult your fellow students, university professors, and other staff members to find affordable housing. You can also share rooms with your classmates to share rent. Having homemade foods, buying groceries from sales, and managing your daily expenses are great ways to save money. 

Smart Budgeting and Saving Tips for International Students in the US

It would help if you always stayed on your toes while spending money. Each dollar and even cent is essential to you. You must plan a basic budget for your week and save some of it for the future. You should use your leisure hours doing work, such as dog walking  , to boost your savings. 

Understanding Taxes and Filing Requirements for International Students

Every earning student in the US faces the challenges of taxation. They must comply with every law and regulation to pay their taxes on time. One can seek help from seniors, guardians, and coworkers to understand taxes and filing requirements. You must always ask for help, as paying a financial advisor can significantly harm your budget. 

Financial Planning for International Students

Planning for College Costs and Scholarships for International Students

It is not just living expenses and accommodation costs that affect their budgeting. College tuition fees are also one of the concerns a college student faces. You can reduce your college costs significantly by applying for scholarships and grants as an international student. There are various funding sources and sponsorships for students who excel academically. You can research and find the right scholarships to manage your expenses.

Building an Emergency Fund for Unexpected Expenses

Earning and spending money for daily expenses is essential, but students living in a foreign land must also prioritize their savings. An emergency fund for financial emergencies is vital for every international student. You must save a few dollars every week to create a fund for rainy-day situations. 

Exploring International Student Loan Options (If Applicable)

Students who have applied for scholarships and jobs but still need financial aid might apply for loans. It would help to look for loan providers in your area that offer great interest rates and flexible due dates. Beem is a super app that allows you to explore marketplaces for loan providers. With Beem, you can compare and check the best financial options and seek competitive prices. 

Read Related Article: How Do Mobile Games Make Money?

Conclusion

Perseverance is one of the essential qualities you can adopt while you begin your journey as an international student. Every challenge and situation you face might teach you skills or qualities you will need for your lifetime. You must start your venture to earn and learn in a foreign land with exemplary dedication and intention in mind. Firstly, always prioritize your academics, as your visa is valid based on your studies. Secondly, manage your time and money efficiently.

With the right balance of education and finances, you can embrace your professional skills and financial stability. It is better to resolve your challenges yourself, but always seek assistance if needed. If you’re seeking extra cash, try Everdraft on Beem. It helps you earn extra income by making on-time payments, avoiding overdrafts, payment failures, and more.

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