As a master's student in Canada or Germany, how many hours can I work and what can I earn?
As an international master's student, you can work part-time in both countries. Canada allows up to 24 hours per week in academic sessions, with hourly pay varying by province (federal minimum CAD 18.15). Germany allows up to 20 hours per week at a minimum wage of EUR 13.90 per hour.
Yes, you can work part-time as an international master's student in both countries. Canada allows up to 24 hours a week during academic sessions and Germany allows up to 20 hours a week during semesters, with full-time work during breaks in both.
Work limits and earnings
| Item | Canada | Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Term-time hours | Up to 24 per week | Up to 20 per week (140 full days or 280 half days per year) |
| During breaks | Full-time | Full-time |
| Hourly pay | Varies by province; federal minimum is 18.15 (approx INR 1,234) | 13.90 (approx INR 1,507) minimum wage |
| Estimated monthly earnings before taxes | About 1,500 (approx INR 1.02 L) (at 24 hours a week, CAD 16 an hour) | 1,100 to 1,200 (approx INR 1.19 to 1.30 L) (at 20 hours a week) |
Keep in mind
- Part-time work can help with living expenses but usually will not cover full tuition.
- Make sure your job follows your visa rules and does not affect your studies.
My Advice
Plan your finances so that work income is a bonus and not the core of your budget. Check the current work rules on the official immigration page of each country before you start a job.
Will you actually get a job after your Canadian master's?
Talk to a counsellor about real outcomes, salaries and which courses employers hire from.
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