Working While Studying in France: A Complete Guide for International Students
France offers international students the opportunity to work alongside their studies, helping them gain financial independence and professional experience. All students, regardless of nationality, have the right to work up to 964 hours per year (60% of full-time work), except Algerian students, who are limited to 50% under a special agreement. The minimum wage (SMIC) in 2024 is €11.65 per hour before deductions.
Students can also work at their universities, take on internships (mandatory ones don’t count toward the 964-hour limit), or apply for apprenticeships and professional training contracts. These options provide valuable work experience, but non-EU students working beyond the limit need a temporary work permit.
Understanding the rules surrounding student employment in France can help maximize earnings while maintaining academic success.
Can International Students Work While Studying in France?
Absolutely! Whether you are pursuing a bachelor's, master's, or PhD in France, you have the legal right to work while studying, regardless of your nationality. Working part-time can help cover living expenses, provide work experience, and enhance your resume. However, there are specific regulations to follow.
Rules for International Students Working in France
- Work Hour Limit: Non-EU international students can work up to 964 hours per year, which is around 60% of the legal full-time work hours in France.
- Algerian students can work only up to 50% of the legal full-time hours due to a bilateral agreement.
- No Additional Work Permit Required: Since the Autorisation Provisoire de Travail (APT) is no longer needed, students can work freely within the legal hour limits.
- Minimum Wage (SMIC): As of January 1, 2024, the gross minimum wage in France is €11.65 per hour.
- After deductions (approx. 20% social contributions), the net earnings are around €9.22 per hour.
- A student working 10 hours per week would earn approximately €92 per week after deductions.
Working at Your University
Many universities and institutions offer part-time jobs to students. These roles include:
- Assisting in student support (help desks, guidance, tutoring)
- Organizing cultural or sports events
- Assisting students with disabilities
Work at universities is regulated to fit within academic schedules:
- September to June: Maximum 670 hours.
- July to August: Maximum 300 hours
Internships in France for International Students
Internships are a crucial part of many academic programs.
Key Rules for Internships:
- Mandatory Agreement: Internships must be backed by a signed agreement between the university and the host organization.
- Paid Internships: If an internship exceeds two months, students are entitled to a minimum stipend of €650 per month (as of January 1, 2024).
- Internships Do Not Count: Hours spent in an internship do not count toward the 964-hour work limit.
Apprenticeships and Professional Training Contracts
An apprenticeship contract is a paid employment contract that allows students to gain work experience while continuing their studies. Until recently, these were only available to students after one year of study in France, but now they are open to first-year master’s students in certain recognized programs.
Key Regulations:
- If the number of hours in the apprenticeship contract exceeds 964 per year, the employer must apply for a temporary work permit for non-EU students.
- Algerian students require a provisional work permit (APT) regardless of work hours.
- Applications for apprenticeships in "Études en France" countries must be processed via the official Études en France platform before the visa application.
Benefits of Working While Studying in France
- Financial Independence: Supplement your living expenses.
- Professional Experience: Gain relevant experience in your field.
- French Work Culture Exposure: Learn about French workplace norms and improve language skills.
- Networking Opportunities: Build contacts for future job prospects.
Working while studying in France is not only possible but also beneficial for international students. Whether through part-time jobs, internships, or apprenticeships, students can earn while gaining valuable experience. However, it’s crucial to follow legal work-hour limits and ensure compliance with visa regulations.
For the latest updates and assistance with job searches, visa processes, and administrative support, visit Eduxskills.com!
