Studying in Singapore is rewarding, but the cost of living can be high. Many students, both local and international, look for part-time work to manage expenses, gain experience, and build skills.
Fortunately, Singapore offers a wide range of flexible job options that suit student schedules.
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Work Rules for Students in Singapore
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Local students (citizens and permanent residents) can work part-time without restrictions.
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International students with a valid Student Pass may work up to 16 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during vacation if they are enrolled in an approved institution.
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Jobs must be legal and follow Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations. No additional work permit is needed for eligible students.
Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students
1. Retail Assistant
Students can work in shopping malls, convenience stores, or supermarkets. Tasks include cashiering, restocking, and helping customers.
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Pay: SGD 8 – 12 per hour
2. Food & Beverage Crew
Restaurants, cafés, bubble tea shops, and fast-food chains regularly hire part-timers. Duties involve serving, cleaning tables, and assisting in the kitchen.
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Pay: SGD 8 – 12 per hour (+ possible tips or staff meals)
3. Private Tutor
Students with strong academic knowledge can tutor in subjects like English, Mathematics, or Science. Language and music tutoring are also popular.
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Pay: SGD 20 – 50 per hour
4. Event Staff
Large-scale events such as concerts, exhibitions, and trade shows hire temporary staff for ushering, ticketing, or registration. Perfect for weekends and holidays.
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Pay: SGD 10 – 15 per hour
5. Admin Assistant
Small businesses and offices often hire students for data entry, filing, or reception duties. This is a good stepping stone for corporate careers.
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Pay: SGD 8 – 12 per hour
6. Delivery Rider
With GrabFood, Deliveroo, and Foodpanda, students can earn money by delivering food. Flexible hours make it attractive.
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Pay: SGD 10 – 18 per hour
7. Freelance Digital Work
Students skilled in graphic design, content writing, social media management, or coding can freelance online. This builds experience while earning.
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Pay: SGD 15 – 40 per hour (varies widely)
Where Students Can Find Part-Time Jobs in Singapore
Online Job Portals
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Indeed Singapore – Lists thousands of student-friendly jobs.
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FastJobs – Popular for entry-level and flexible jobs.
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JobStreet Singapore – Covers both part-time and full-time opportunities.
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Gumtree Singapore – Casual jobs and freelance gigs.
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GrabJobs – Mobile-friendly app for quick applications.
Specialized Student & Freelance Platforms
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Tutoroo, ChampionTutor – Great for tutoring opportunities.
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Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer – International platforms for online freelance work.
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Glints – Often features internships and flexible jobs suitable for students.
On-Campus Opportunities
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Many universities and polytechnics hire students as:
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Library assistants
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Research helpers
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Campus ambassadors
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Event support staff
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Walk-In Applications
Retail outlets, cafés, and restaurants often display “We’re Hiring” signs. Walking in and applying directly is common and often faster.
Industries That Commonly Hire Students
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Hospitality & Tourism – Hotels, theme parks, attractions.
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Retail – Malls, supermarkets, convenience stores.
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Food & Beverage – Fast food, cafés, restaurants.
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Education – Tuition centres, private tutoring.
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Logistics – Warehousing, delivery, packing jobs.
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Events & Promotions – Roadshows, exhibitions, brand ambassador roles.
Tips to Get Hired Quickly
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Prepare a simple resume highlighting skills like communication, teamwork, or tech knowledge.
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Be flexible with shifts, especially evenings and weekends.
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Improve English skills since most part-time jobs require customer interaction.
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Check university rules if you’re an international student, to avoid visa issues.
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Apply early during holidays, as jobs get filled fast by other students.
FAQs
Can international students work in Singapore part-time?
Yes, if they hold a valid Student Pass from an approved institution. They can work 16 hours weekly during school terms and full-time during vacation.
Where can students find part-time jobs easily?
Retail shops, cafés, restaurants, job portals like Indeed, FastJobs, and GrabJobs, as well as on-campus opportunities.
Do students need a work permit?
Local students don’t need one. International students on Student Pass can work under MOM guidelines without an extra permit.
Which jobs pay the most?
Tutoring and freelance digital work often pay the highest compared to retail or F&B jobs.
How much do students usually earn per month?
Depending on hours, part-time jobs can bring SGD 500 – 1,200 per month.