In China, international students have many side job options to choose from. The threshold is low, and it’s easy to get started. Although there are many options, a lot of jobs are actually quite simple and easy, like data collection, analysis, and some basic operations. Let’s discuss these suitable side jobs for international students.
Table of Contents
English Tutoring
The most common part-time jobs for international students, especially for the students who are native English speakers. Since China’s market is so demanding and that parents are willing to pay much money to help their children learn English well, the salary for this job is also relatively high. Generally speaking, the salary for English tutors in Beijing or Shanghai is between 100- 200 yuan per hour, but it also depends on the connections and reputation.
Some really excellent tutors can even set higher charges. Since many parents of students in council-run international schools or private schools in big cities are desperate to hire international students who are proficient in the courses to tutor their children English, even though not only part-time makes you earn money, but also helps you improve your language and communication skills.
Fitness and Health
One of the easiest work is to become a personal trainer if one is interested in fitness and have the relevant certifications. The current gyms now focus on foreign trainers, and their hourly rates are between 200-500 yuan per hour. The market demand for group classes such as yoga and Pilates is also very high. The payment for each lesson may reach over 150 yuan, and the timetable is flexible. It is important to develop a schedule based on when the course is in session.
Furthermore, another opportunity is to sell massage guns in the fitness community. As the “treasured product” in the gym, the market demand is also very high. One could demonstrate the product in a place like malls, exhibitions, or near gym and to be sold to people who are aware about the functions of it. Massage the muscles into sore muscles. In doing so, the selling skills could be learned and good commission could be gotten. Some people make an extra 3,000+ per month selling abeget brand massage guns.
Design and Copywriting
A lot of companies in China are in need of English content, which may be articles for websites, product descriptions, catchy marketing text, etc. The payment can be agreed on per word, with about 500 yuan per thousand, for example.
Students who are able to deal with special design software to create a company’s logo or some bright image for social media are at the most demand now. The pay for a single work can vary from a few hundreds of yuan to even a few thousands depending on your skills of design.
Furthermore, for international students with a good command of any specific language, a job of a translator can be a good option, especially from Chinese to English. In spheres of legal and business documents, the pay can also be over 1,000 yuan per thousand words. If you already have some experience in this work, you can also look for some long-term translation.
Arts and Entertainment
If you are capable of music or dance, you can take part in the performances. International cities such as Shanghai city hold many art festivals and concerts. There is a high demand for performers. You can show off your talent and get pay.
One part time job of international students is event photography or wedding photography. Photographers are paid a sum of over 2,000 yuan per event. When your skill is strong, the pay would be much more. There are great opportunities because many companies and individuals in China require photographers for their events.
Considerations and Suggestions
Visa Regulations: Please note that international students should know relevant visa restrictions, and legal work permit is required to be qualified for the jobs. Most universities offer available information and help to you in preparing for part-time opportunities legally.
Respect for Cultural Difference: In workplace, it is important to understand and respect Chinese culture, which you can learn a lot of useful things through your intercourse at work or with customers.
Taking advantage of Resources: I suggest you to participate in social activities to establish social connections, which is very effective for your future development. You will find that many opportunities are brought to you by your personal or social network. Thus, you should know how to take good advantage of resources around you.