Understand your visa and work restrictions
Working rights in Australia for international students mean you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours over study breaks.
If your spouse or children are travelling with you on the same visa, they’ll have to adhere to the Student dependent visa Australia working rights cap, which limits them to 48 hours of work per fortnight, regardless of study period. Remember - you can always reach out to your educational institution for support or help when you need it.
Choose a flexible job
Your student visa work rights will mean you can work casual or part-time jobs, but won’t be able to undertake full-time hours (an average of 38 hours per week). Roles in retail and hospitality often have flexible hours that can fit around your study schedule, making them a great fit for students.
StudyAdelaide’s Job Shop is the perfect place to start your search and makes it easy to explore hundreds of opportunities in Adelaide and surrounds.
Prioritise your studies
As an international student, the most important thing to do is get a great education. Take the time at the start of the semester to identify deadlines and exam dates, then make a study schedule to ensure you stay on track.
Your student visa work rights may allow you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight, but weigh up whether this is right for you. Working fewer hours could make it easier to dedicate time to your studies.
Set realistic goals
Interesting subjects, extra-credit courses, internships, part-time jobs, student societies, sports clubs and volunteering - with so many exciting things on offer, it can be easy to overcommit your time.
While it’s good to get involved, be mindful of your limits. Choose quality over quantity, and leave plenty of time for study and rest.
Manage your time
Time management techniques make it easy to stay ahead. Using a planner or calendar, allocate blocks of time each day or week to study, work, rest and fun.
Breaking large tasks into smaller goals can also help them feel more achievable. You can even try productivity methods like the Pomodoro Technique, where you alternate 25-minute blocks of work with five-minute rests, taking an extended break after four sessions.
Take care of your health
Looking after your body and mind is critical and helps you study and work effectively. Try to get some exercise most days, even if it’s just a short walk in the sunshine, and aim to eat nutritious, home-cooked meals whenever you can.
If you’re feeling unwell or want some mental health support, get in touch with your nearest health and medical service.
Stay social
Social well-being is connected to our overall health, so it’s important to make time for fun with friends. Make sure you allocate at least a little time each week, and try to do things that take you out of your normal routine, like visiting some of Adelaide’s many attractions.
Still building your support network? Check out local community and cultural groups, join some university clubs and societies or get along to StudyAdelaide’s fun and free events.
Be flexible
Your study needs will change throughout the year. Being flexible with your schedule will make it easy to make adjustments as you go and get the most out of your study experience.
For example, while your student visa working hours in Australia will stay the same throughout the semester, you may need to reduce your hours during exams or busy assessment periods.
Learn to say no
It can be hard to turn down fun opportunities, extra shifts at work or social occasions, but sometimes that’s the right choice. If you’re finding it hard to prioritise your studies or health, it might be time to start saying no more to give yourself more time for the things that matter most.
Know your rights
Working rights in Australia for international students go beyond hours. As a worker, you’re entitled to be treated fairly and in line with the law.
If you’re facing excessive work hours, low wages or mistreatment, there are resources on hand to help.