For many students in Malaysia and Singapore, juggling studies and part-time work is a practical way to gain experience and financial independence. Whether you’re looking to ease the burden of tuition fees, save for the future, or simply afford your daily expenses, part-time work during school can be both rewarding and challenging.
Here’s a guide to understanding the pros, cons, and smart ways to manage part-time work while being a student.
Why Consider Part-Time Work in School?
1. Financial Relief
A part-time job offers an immediate source of income. You can use your earnings to cover:
- Daily expenses (meals, transport, school supplies)
- Personal savings
- Loan repayments (if applicable)
- Reducing reliance on family or loans
2. Real-World Experience
Working helps you build essential life and career skills such as:
- Time management
- Customer service
- Teamwork and communication
- Responsibility and discipline
3. Resume Building
Having work experience during school shows initiative and maturity to future employers. It sets you apart from peers who may only have academic credentials.
4. Networking Opportunities
Part-time jobs can lead to future internships, mentorship, or full-time job opportunities—especially if you’re working in a related field.
Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students
In Malaysia:
- Barista or cashier at cafes
- Retail assistant
- Delivery rider (Grab, foodpanda)
- Tuition teacher or tutor
- Freelance design, writing, or social media work
In Singapore:
- Admin assistant or receptionist
- Promoter or brand ambassador
- Library or campus job
- E-commerce packer or handler
- Content creator or online gig work (with proper permits)
Note: International students in Singapore must hold a Student Pass and can work up to 16 hours per week during the school term (with approval). In Malaysia, student visa holders must apply through EMGS and are limited to 20 hours per week during semester breaks.
How to Balance Work and Study
✅ Choose the Right Hours
Look for jobs that offer flexible schedules. Weekend, evening, or on-campus jobs are ideal.
✅ Limit Your Hours
Stick to 15–20 hours per week or less to avoid academic burnout.
✅ Prioritise Academics
Work should not compromise your grades. Make sure job responsibilities don’t clash with exams or assignment deadlines.
✅ Communicate With Employers
Be transparent about your student status. Responsible employers will respect your commitments and help you plan a manageable schedule.
✅ Stay Organised
Use digital calendars or apps to track your classes, work shifts, and study time. Planning ahead prevents last-minute stress.
Legal & Safety Considerations
- Always check if you need approval or a permit (especially if you’re an international student).
- Avoid jobs that involve unsafe working conditions or violate labor laws.
- Keep a written record of your working hours and payment terms to avoid disputes.
The Downsides to Watch For
- Fatigue:Â Long hours may leave you too tired to focus on studies.
- Reduced Social Life:Â You may have to skip social events or extracurriculars.
- Risk of Overcommitment: It’s tempting to take on more hours to earn more, but this can hurt your academic performance.
Tips to Maximise Your Part-Time Job
- Pick a job related to your field of study (e.g., IT student doing tech support).
- Look for campus-based roles which are usually more flexible and understanding.
- Use the income to build emergency savings or start investing.
- Track your earnings and set simple financial goals to stay motivated.
Part-time work while in school is more than just a way to make money—it’s a stepping stone to independence, responsibility, and professional growth. With the right mindset and balance, it can enhance your student life without compromising your academic goals.
Start small, stay organised, and work smart—your future self will thank you.
