Best Part Time Job Opportunities in Singapore for Students
Introduction
Part-time jobs provide students with the opportunity to gain experience in their field of study, earn a source of income, and develop additional skills. If you're a student in Singapore seeking to earn some money on the side while balancing work and studies, there are many part-time job options available. In Singapore, employment opportunities span multiple areas, including retail, hospitality, tutoring, and internships. Part-time jobs in Singapore can expose students to real-world scenarios and potentially build valuable networking relationships that can launch their careers. In this article, we provide a list of the top part-time job options available to students in Singapore, along with practical guidance on how to balance your work and academic responsibilities.
Work Regulations for Students in Singapore
Students who study in Singapore enjoy high-quality academics and the added benefit of working while pursuing their education at top-ranked universities. At the same time, there are reasonable government regulations about how, when, and where you can work as a student. Being aware of the rules is essential to avoid breaking the law and to benefit from landing part-time work later.
1. Entitlement to work
International students with a valid Student Pass issued by Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) can generally work, provided they are attending a full-time course at an approved institution, such as universities and polytechnics accredited by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Students who enrol in part-time classes or non-accredited programs are not eligible for this award.
2. Working hours during term
Students may work up to 16 hours a week during the academic term without being required to obtain an additional work permit. This regulation ensures studies remain the primary focus but allows students to gain practical experience and supplement their living costs.
3. Working during vacation
International students are permitted to work full-time and for any hours during official school holidays or vacations. This provides opportunities for students to undertake relevant work placements or internships, or to engage in longer-term work.
4. Internships & industrial attachments
If an internship or industrial attachment is mandated in a curriculum, students do not require a work permit to fulfil that work placement. The institution generally liaises with the employer, and the working conditions will be met under the Student Pass, provided that the employer places students whom the institution formally recognises.
5. Employment Restrictions
A Student Pass holder will also not be allowed to engage in freelance work, or self-employment, or hold a job in an inappropriate industry, such as a bar, nightclub, or other restricted epidemic industries, which are prohibited. Failure to comply with the above can result in cancellation of the Student Pass and deportation.
Benefits of Part-Time Jobs in Singapore
- Provides financial support to cover daily living expenses and reduce reliance on external funding.
- Offers practical work experience that complements academic studies.
- Helps students develop essential skills, including communication, teamwork, and time management.
- Exposes students to Singapore's multicultural workplace environment.
- Enhances employability by strengthening resumes with relevant work history.
- Expands networking opportunities with professionals and potential employers.
- Promotes independence, responsibility, and overall personal growth.
[Learn More: Can College Students Really Thrive in Freelancing and Earn Big]
Popular Part-Time Job Options in Singapore
International students in Singapore can take on numerous part-time jobs to supplement their funding and gain valuable experience. Jobs can offer hiring income and help students develop professional and interpersonal skills. A list of typical jobs with average hourly salaries can be found below:
| Job | Wage (SGD per hour) |
|---|---|
|
Retail Assistant |
8 – 12 |
|
F&B Service (Waiter/Barista/Kitchen Staff) |
8 – 14 |
|
Administrative Assistant |
9 – 15 |
|
Private Tutor |
20 – 40 |
|
Event Crew (Expos, Concerts) |
10 – 18 |
|
Delivery & Logistics |
10 – 16 |
|
Call Center Operator / Telemarketer |
9 – 14 |
|
Library or Campus Assistant |
8 – 12 |
|
Receptionist / Front Desk |
9 – 13 |
|
Sales Promoter (Events/Stores) |
10 – 16 |
|
Data Entry Clerk |
9 – 12 |
|
Babysitter / Childcare Helper |
12 – 20 |
|
Hotel Part-Time Staff (Housekeeping/Front Desk) |
9 – 15 |
|
Customer Service Associate |
9 – 14 |
|
Fitness / Sports Instructor (Skilled) |
20 – 35 |
Top Industries Hiring Students in Singapore
Here's a clear breakdown of the requirements and documents needed for international students in Singapore to work part-time legally:
1. Eligibility Requirements
- Must hold a valid Student Pass issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
- Enrolled full-time in an approved institution (universities, polytechnics, or institutions recognised by the Ministry of Manpower).
- Allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.
- Work should not be in restricted industries such as bars, nightclubs, or massage parlours.
2. Essential Documents
To apply for part-time jobs, students usually need to present:
- Valid Student Pass (proof of legal study status).
- Passport copy (identification).
- Resume/CV highlighting skills, education, and experience.
- Letter of Enrolment or Student ID from the institution.
- Bank account details for salary deposits (after securing a job).
- Work contract or offer letter (provided by the employer, confirming job role and hours).
How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Singapore
1. University Career Services
Many top universities in Singapore have career centres or portals for students to promote job opportunities, listing part-time jobs on campus (e.g., library, administrative, or research assistant roles) as well as job openings with partnering companies outside the campus.
2. Online Job Portals
JobStreet, Indeed, FastJobs, Gumtree, STJobs, and other similar sites frequently feature local part-time job opportunities for students. Many of these postings are in the retail, food and beverage (F&B), and logistics sectors, which allow students to apply for the positions directly. Additionally, job sites often offer various filtering options, such as 'part-time', 'hourly', or 'temporary' work.
3. Networking & Referrals
Often, part-time positions are found and obtained through a friend, a referral, or a connection with a classmate or professor. Networking while interning or volunteering (as well as campus events) can also help students connect with connections that suggest places that have flexible workers.
4. Walk-In Applications
The walk-in application process is still a common and acceptable way to apply for part-time roles in retail shops, cafes, and restaurants. Students should have a resume prepared and presentable clothing to walk in and ask for part-time job openings directly. If effective, this is often a reliable way to secure a quick hire in the food and beverage (F&B) and retail sectors.
5. Employment Agencies
Some employment or temp staffing agencies in Singapore specialise in short-term and/or part-time work. Registering with these agencies can help students find work quickly, especially in event management, logistics, or seasonal work such as exhibitions and/or conferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, part-time jobs in Singapore offer international students more than just a source of income; these jobs also provide opportunities to develop skills, experience a new culture, and engage in professional development. With numerous job types across various industries, including retail, food and beverage, hospitality, education, and logistics, international students can find opportunities that meet their preferences and schedules. The regulated work environment in Singapore ensures that students are involved in a safe and structured work experience. The part-time nature of the work allows students to balance their academic commitments while gaining work experience. While part-time job experiences enhance a student's resume, they also help develop a sense of independence, dependability, and flexibility—three essential qualities required to secure jobs in an increasingly competitive job market. Ultimately, part-time jobs are an excellent way to establish a solid foundation for a future career while also gaining valuable experience in an exciting, vibrant, and multicultural environment.
[Read More: What Are the Best Ways to Study in Singapore Without IELTS in 2025]
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can international students work part-time in Singapore?
Yes, international students can work part-time in Singapore if they hold a valid Student Pass. They are allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during term time. During vacation, students may work full-time with approval.
2. What types of part-time jobs are available for students in Singapore?
Typical part-time jobs include retail, hospitality, tutoring, customer service, and administrative support. Many students also find work in cafes, restaurants, and call centres. The growing digital economy is also creating an increasing number of freelance opportunities.
3. How much can students earn from part-time jobs in Singapore?
On average, students earn between SGD 800 and SGD 1,200 per month, depending on the role and the number of hours worked. Hospitality and tutoring jobs usually pay higher hourly rates. Earnings typically cover living expenses, including food and transportation.
4. Do students need a work permit for part-time jobs in Singapore?
No separate work permit is required if the student holds a valid Student Pass and works within allowed hours. However, the job must be with a registered company. Unauthorised work can result in cancellation of the Student Pass.
5. How easy is it to find part-time jobs in Singapore for students?
Finding part-time jobs is relatively easy due to Singapore's strong service sector. Around 35% of international students manage to secure part-time roles within their first semester. Networking and applying early improve job opportunities.
6. Can working part-time affect academic performance?
If managed well, part-time work helps students gain experience without disrupting studies. Universities recommend balancing work with a maximum of 16 hours per week. Good time management ensures academics remain a priority.
7. Which industries hire the most student workers in Singapore?
The hospitality, retail, and education sectors are the largest employers of students. In 2025, hospitality alone accounts for nearly 40% of student part-time jobs. The demand is steady due to Singapore's tourism-driven economy.
8. Do students gain career benefits from part-time work in Singapore?
Yes, part-time jobs can improve professional skills such as communication, teamwork, and customer service handling. Over 60% of graduates with prior work experience find full-time roles more quickly after completing their studies. Part-time jobs also build strong local networks.
9. What are the average working hours allowed for students in Singapore?
Students can work up to 16 hours per week during academic terms. Full-time work is permitted during scheduled university vacations, provided it is obtained with prior approval from the university. Strict compliance with rules is essential to avoid penalties.
10. Is Singapore safe for students working part-time?
Yes, Singapore is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world. Strict labour laws protect workers from exploitation and ensure fair wages and working conditions. This creates a secure environment for students balancing work and study.
