International Students: Earning Money Strategies And Tips

International students often face financial challenges when studying abroad, especially those with an F-1 visa. However, there are numerous ways for them to earn money and support themselves while studying. On-campus employment is one of the most convenient options, with many universities offering part-time positions that help students cover living expenses and gain valuable skills. International students can also work as freelancers, participate in online surveys, or sell items online. Other options include investing in stocks, buying and selling items, or even starting a business. With perseverance and dedication, international students can maximize their earning potential and achieve financial independence while studying abroad.

On-campus employment

International students must follow the rules and procedures for employment established by their university, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and their sponsoring agencies. Before starting any job, it is important to seek approval from the Designated School Official (DSO) or the International Students Office to ensure compliance with visa regulations. Additionally, international students need a Social Security Number (SSN) for tax purposes and may be subject to both federal and state income taxes.

There are various on-campus job options available for international students. These include:

• Research and teaching assistant positions: Assist professors with research projects, classroom activities, or teaching efforts.
• Library or administrative assistant roles: Help manage the university library, perform administrative tasks, or work at the front desk.
• Tutoring services: Offer peer tutoring to fellow students in your field of expertise or native language.
• Campus event staffing: Work during university events such as orientation programs, sports events, or campus fairs.

The pay for on-campus jobs can vary depending on the location, type of job, and minimum wage in that area. Typically, international students can expect to earn somewhere between $7 and $15 per hour for on-campus jobs, working up to 20 hours per week during the semester.

Freelancing

There are many freelancing options available for international students, including tutoring or language instruction, graphic design, web development, writing, editing, and coding. If your freelancing specialty is connected to your degree, it can be a great way to build a portfolio and gain experience in your field.

To get started, you can sign up for websites like Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer, which offer numerous freelance projects. You can also connect with students seeking tutoring help through websites like Tutor.com, Chegg Tutors, and VIPKid.

Additionally, consider starting a blog or vlog to share your experiences and useful tips about studying abroad. You can become a travel influencer on Instagram, create fun TikTok videos, or write about topics you care about. These online platforms can be excellent side hustles and can pay well if done right.

It is important to note that international students on F-1 visas have certain restrictions on the types of jobs they can do and the hours they can work. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations to ensure compliance.

Fixing and reselling items

Once you have found some items to fix and resell, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you set a price that is higher than what you paid for the item but still competitive. You can research similar items online or in stores to get an idea of a fair price. Second, take good pictures of the items and write detailed descriptions when listing them for sale. This will help you attract buyers and get the most money for your items.

You can sell your refurbished items online through platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist. These platforms will allow you to reach a wide audience of potential buyers. You can also try selling your items to pawnshops or at a physical store, such as a consignment shop. When selling online, be sure to consider any fees associated with the platform, as well as shipping costs if you are not selling locally.

Passive income

• Online surveys and market research: F1 international students can participate in online surveys and market research, which is considered passive income. While this won't replace a full-time income, it is a convenient way to earn money in your free time.
• Sell unwanted items: You can declutter and sell items you no longer need on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or local buy-and-sell groups. This is a great way to generate passive income.
• Real estate: Buying, renting, or selling property in the US is another way to earn passive income. However, this option may require a more significant initial investment.
• Investments: International students can also consider investing in stocks or other financial instruments to generate passive income. However, it is important to note that there may be tax implications and reporting requirements associated with investment income in the US. For example, F1 visa holders are typically subject to a 30% withholding tax on their US-source passive income.
• Freelancing: While freelancing is often considered active income, certain types of freelancing work can become passive income. For example, creating digital products like online courses, e-books, or graphic design templates that can be sold multiple times without requiring your constant involvement.

It is important to consult an immigration lawyer or international student advisor to understand the legal and tax implications of earning passive income as an international student.

Tutoring

If you're an international student looking to make some extra money, tutoring can be a great option. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Getting Started as a Tutor

First, you'll need to decide what subject(s) you want to tutor. Consider your strengths and passions. You can choose to tutor core subjects like mathematics, English, or the sciences, or you can teach a subject that you're particularly interested in. If you're tutoring in a language other than your native tongue, make sure you feel confident enough to teach it effectively.

Next, you'll need to find clients. Spread the word among your friends and classmates, and let them know you're offering tutoring services. You can also reach out to students directly through online tutoring platforms or websites like Tutor.com, Chegg Tutors, and VIPKid. These platforms can connect you with students seeking help in the subjects you teach.

The Perks of Tutoring

Legal and Financial Considerations

As an international student, it's important to be mindful of any restrictions on the number of hours you can work, especially if you're on an F-1 visa. Make sure you understand the rules and regulations around working while studying, and be aware of any tax implications that may arise from your tutoring income. Consult an immigration lawyer or your university's international student advisors if you're unsure about anything.

Additional Tips

If you're just starting, consider offering a free or discounted trial session to attract potential clients. This can help build trust and showcase your tutoring skills. Also, don't be afraid to be creative with your teaching methods to make your sessions fun and engaging. Use a variety of teaching tools, such as visual aids, practice questions, and real-life examples, to cater to different learning styles.

Remember, tutoring is not just about imparting knowledge; it's also about building rapport and creating a safe and encouraging learning environment for your students.

Frequently asked questions