Master the juggle: Here is how international students can thrive while studying and working part-time

Studying abroad isn’t just an educational experience — it’s a life-changing adventure filled with new cultures, fresh friendships, and eye-opening experiences. But beyond the excitement, many find themselves navigating the tricky balancing act of managing part-time work alongside demanding coursework. Whether you’re working to ease financial pressure, gain real-world experience, or build your resume, the challenge is real.

The truth is, juggling work and studies can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving you stretched thin and risking burnout. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right approach, you can not only survive but thrive — keeping your energy up, your goals on track, and your journey abroad as fulfilling as you imagined. Ready to master the art of balance? Let’s dive into how you can work, study, and live well without losing your sanity.

Start with a realistic, flexible scheduleThe first step to balancing work and studies is knowing your limits. Take a close look at your class timetable, assignment deadlines, exam dates, and work shifts. Plot them out in a weekly planner or digital calendar.

The following tips will help you curate a flexible schedule:

• Schedule study blocks when you’re most alert — maybe morning or late evening.
  
• Don’t forget to block off time for meals, exercise, social activities, and rest. These aren’t “extras”; they’re essential.
  
• Leave buffer time for unexpected events like a group project meeting or a sick day.

Being realistic about how much you can handle helps avoid overloading yourself. Remember, quality beats quantity — it’s better to study effectively for 2 hours than stress over 6 unfocused ones.

Open communication is your superpowerWhether it’s your employer or your professors, keep the lines of communication open. They’ll respect your honesty and often work with you to accommodate your needs.

With your employer:
Explain your academic schedule clearly and ask for flexible shifts during peak study times like exams or assignment deadlines. Many employers value responsible students and will try to support your goals.

With your professors:
If work obligations clash with class or deadlines, don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed. Let them know ahead of time and request extensions or alternative arrangements if necessary. Professors appreciate proactive students.

Choose jobs that add value to your experienceA part-time job doesn’t have to be just about the money (although that’s important too). Look for opportunities that align with your interests, career goals, or help develop transferable skills like communication, teamwork, or problem-solving. Do not forget that while you are picking up a job, you are still a student. Some such job prospects that will align with your academics include:

• Working in a university department related to your major
  
• Internships or assistant roles in your field of study
  
• Tutoring or language exchange if you want to improve your skills

When your job feels purposeful, it energises you instead of draining you.

Master the art of saying noIt’s tempting to say yes to every shift, every extra task, or every social invitation to make the most of your time. But overcommitting is the fastest route to burnout. Learn to set boundaries firmly but kindly. Remember: your top priority is your education and well-being. Protect your study time and rest like a precious investment.

Saying no now means more energy and focus later. Studying in a different country than your own already adds up to extra work such as managing food, household chores, studies, and other daily activities. Do not say yes to anything that doesn't fit into your schedule.

Tap into campus resources and communitiesDon’t try to do it all alone. Universities usually offer a wealth of resources designed to support international students balancing multiple demands.

• Academic counselling and tutoring services
  
• Mental health and wellness programs
  
• Workshops on time management and stress relief
  
• Student clubs and support groups

Connecting with fellow international students can also provide invaluable emotional support and practical tips. Sharing your challenges and successes helps you feel less isolated and more empowered.

Prioritise your physical and mental well-beingYour body and mind are your most important assets. Without good health, neither work nor study will go well. To keep yourself physically and mentally fit enough to work and study at the same time,

• Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep every night; it’s non-negotiable for memory and focus.
  
• Incorporate regular physical activity — even a 20-minute walk or stretching can boost energy and reduce stress.
  
• Eat balanced meals and stay hydrated to keep your brain sharp.
  
• Practice mindfulness, meditation, or journaling to manage anxiety and maintain emotional balance.

Take regular breaks to avoid burnoutTaking regular breaks isn’t just about stepping away — it’s about recharging your focus and energy. Try to pause every 45 to 60 minutes to stretch, take a few deep breaths, or enjoy a quick snack. These small moments of downtime help clear your mind, prevent fatigue, and keep your productivity flowing smoothly.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget to celebrate your wins — big or small. Whether it’s finishing a tough assignment, landing a new shift, or simply making it through a challenging week, give yourself a little reward. It might be a cozy movie night, a catch-up chat with friends, or indulging in your favourite treat. These moments of positive reinforcement fuel your motivation and make the journey not just manageable, but genuinely enjoyable.