How Much Can an International Student Earn in Canada While Studying?

“When it comes to working in Canada, do you know that international students are allowed to work for up to 20 hours a week during semesters and full-time during scheduled breaks? While the minimum wage varies in provinces at between $15-$17 per hour, most students take part-time jobs to manage their cost of living in Canada.”

But let us face the truth, getting well-paying part-time work can sometimes be difficult. When you are bogged down by university deadlines, plus restrictions on work permits, the students might encounter hindrances in matching study time with financial needs. But again, there is the good part: these opportunities do exist! From on-campus jobs to a stream of off-campus work in Canada for international students, once you learn how and where to apply for them, your average pay and work experience can skyrocket while you are in school. 

What are the Work Opportunities Available for Students in Canada?

Let’s be real. Studying in Canada isn’t cheap. With tuition fees, rent, and daily expenses, international students need every dollar they can earn.

The good news? Canada allows students to work while studying, but there are a few things you need to know before jumping into a job.

1. On-Campus Jobs – The Easiest Option

If you’re looking for convenience, on-campus jobs are your best bet. You can work in libraries, cafeterias, research labs, or admin offices. These jobs don’t require a separate work permit and let you work up to 20 hours per week during semesters.

2. Off-Campus Jobs – More Pay, More Competition

With a study permit, international students are allowed to work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week and full-time during breaks. Popular options include retail stores, restaurants, delivery services, and customer service. Average salary? Anywhere between $15-$25 per hour, depending on the province.

3. Co-Op and Internship Programs – Best for Work Experience

Many universities in Canada offer co-op programs where you work as part of your degree. This gives you professional experience while earning a decent salary in Canada. Some internships even pay $30-$100 per hour, making them one of the highest-paying student jobs.

4. Freelancing & Online Jobs – Work on Your Own Terms

Want flexible hours? Freelancing and online jobs like tutoring, content writing, and graphic design allow students to work part-time from anywhere. Plus, no work permit needed! Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can help you earn extra cash without affecting your study schedule.

5. Work-Study Programs – Get Paid While Studying

Some universities in Canada offer work-study programs, where students take up part-time jobs in Canada that are directly related to their field. These jobs are perfect for students looking to gain experience and reduce their cost of studying.

Bottom line? There are plenty of job opportunities in Canada for students, but you need to find what works best for your schedule and financial goals. Plan wisely, balance your studies, and earn smart!

How Much Can a Student Earn in Canada While Studying?

Let’s be honest—working part-time while studying in Canada won’t make you rich, but it can help cover your living expenses. International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during scheduled breaks. In 2025, the minimum wage in Canada varies by province, but on average, it’s between $15 to $17 per hour, meaning a student can earn around $1,200–$1,500 per month before taxes.

That said, your actual earnings depend on the type of job. On-campus and retail jobs usually pay minimum wage, while tutoring, research assistant roles, and tech gigs can go up to $25–$50 per hour. If you’re in British Columbia or Ontario, wages might be slightly higher, but so is the cost of studying and living. The key is finding high-paying part-time jobs in Canada that fit your schedule, so you can gain work experience without affecting your studies.

What are the Highest Paying part-time jobs in Canada for international students?

Not all part-time in Canada pay well, and not all are worth your time. If you’re an international student, you’re likely balancing studies, work hours, and the cost of studying. The trick is to find the best part time jobs that pay above minimum wage and offer flexible hours.

Here are some of the highest paying part time jobs in Canada for international students in 2025:

1. Freelancing & Online Jobs ($30-$100 per hour in Canada)

If you have skills in graphic design, programming, writing, or tutoring, freelancing is one of the best part-time jobs. You work from anywhere, set your own work hours, and can earn anywhere between $ 30-$100 per hour.

2. Private Tutor ($25-$50 per hour in Canada)

Tutoring is one of the easiest ways international students can earn. Whether it’s math, coding, or English, many students apply for a Canada student visa and take up tutoring to support their studies.

3. Research Assistant ($20-$35 per hour in Canada)

If you’re studying at universities to work in research-heavy fields, look for on-campus or off-campus jobs as a research assistant. These roles help you gain work experience and sometimes even offer a higher hourly wage than other part-time jobs for international students in Canada.

4. Customer Service & Sales Representative ($18-$25 per hour in Canada)

Some off-campus jobs like working in retail or call centers pay a solid $18 to $ 25 per hour. These jobs are great for students 2025 looking to improve communication skills.

5. Server or Barista ($15-$20 per hour + Tips in Canada)

Work in cafes, restaurants, or bars—especially in busy areas—because students are paid by hours plus tips. In some cities, servers can earn up to $25 per hour with tips included.

6. Ride-Sharing or Food Delivery ($15-$30 per hour in Canada)

If you have a Canadian student visa and a valid driver’s license, Uber, DoorDash, and SkipTheDishes are great options. Depending on the city, students can work flexible hours and earn $15-$30 per hour.

Can International Students in Canada Earn Enough to Cover Their Expenses While Studying?

The average salary for part time jobs is around $15-$25 per hour, depending on the type of work and province. Indian students in Canada and other international students may be enrolled in programs that allow them to work part-time in Canada while studying, but there are limits. Students can work up to 24 hours per week in some cases, but generally, they can only work 20 hours per week off-campus and work full-time during reading week or breaks.

Now, let’s talk numbers. The cost of living in Canada per month varies by city. In places like Toronto or Vancouver, Canada as an international student means paying $1,500 to $2,500 per month on rent, food, and transportation. Employment in Canada for students helps, but full-time work is allowed only during official breaks. So while jobs in Canada for Indian students provide extra income, relying entirely on study and work visa earnings isn’t realistic. The best approach? Plan ahead, wish to work smarter, and take advantage of high-paying part-time jobs.

10 Top Universities in Canada for International Students

Did you know? Canada is home to some of the world’s best universities, attracting over 600,000 international students each year. With a strong reputation in the overseas education industry, Canada offers excellent higher studies opportunities, allowing students to study and work simultaneously. Students are eligible to work while studying, typically up to 20 hours per week and work 24 hours in specific cases. During breaks, they can work for a maximum of 40 hours per week, making it possible to earn enough to manage living expenses.

Here’s a look at the top universities in Canada for international students, along with key details on tuition fees, earning potential, and entrance exams:

University	Average Tuition Fees (Per Year)	Average Salary After Graduation	Exams Required
University of Toronto	$45,000 – $65,000 CAD	$60,000 – $80,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GRE/GMAT (for some programs)
University of British Columbia	$40,000 – $60,000 CAD	$55,000 – $75,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT/GRE
McGill University	$35,000 – $58,000 CAD	$55,000 – $78,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GRE (for some programs)
University of Alberta	$30,000 – $45,000 CAD	$50,000 – $72,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT/GRE
McMaster University	$28,000 – $50,000 CAD	$52,000 – $75,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT/GRE
University of Waterloo	$35,000 – $55,000 CAD	$60,000 – $85,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT/GRE
Western University	$30,000 – $50,000 CAD	$50,000 – $70,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT/GRE
University of Calgary	$25,000 – $45,000 CAD	$48,000 – $70,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT/GRE
Queen’s University	$30,000 – $55,000 CAD	$50,000 – $75,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT/GRE
Dalhousie University	$22,000 – $40,000 CAD	$45,000 – $65,000 CAD	IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT/GRE

Conclusion

Working while studying in Canada can help with expenses, but it won’t make you financially independent. The average hourly wage varies by job and province, and students need to meet work-hour limits, usually 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. Yes, Canada can get you great education and work opportunities, but smart financial planning is key.

If you want to study and maximize your earnings, focus on high-paying part-time jobs and skills that make you employable. It’s not just about the work they get—it’s about making the most of it. Planning to work while studying? Let Ambitio help you navigate the study abroad process, from university selection to work options. Get expert guidance today!

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