How many hours can I work part-time in Singapore during term time, and what's the typical hourly wage for a retail assistant?
Yes, international students in Singapore can work up to 16 hours a week during term time without a separate work pass, provided their institution is approved. Retail assistant roles typically pay around SGD 10 to 14 an hour, roughly SGD 693 to 970 a month at 16 hours a week.
Yes, if your institution is on Singapore's approved list and you hold a valid Student's Pass, you can work part time without needing a separate work pass. The limit changes depending on whether you are in term time or on an official break.
Work hour limits and retail wages
| Period or role | Limit or typical pay |
|---|---|
| During term time | Up to 16 hours a week |
| During official vacations | Full time work allowed, subject to conditions |
| Retail assistant hourly wage | Roughly SGD 10 to 14 an hour |
| Monthly income at 16 hours a week | Roughly SGD 693 to 970 |
What determines whether you can work at all
- Approved institution: Your school must be on Singapore's Ministry of Manpower approved list, which includes NUS, NTU, SMU, SUTD, SIT, SUSS and several polytechnics.
- Full-time enrollment: You must be enrolled full time to use this work pass exemption.
- Exchange students excluded: If you are on an exchange program rather than a full degree, this exemption does not apply to you.
- Other common jobs: F&B staff typically earn SGD 9 to 12 an hour, private tutors SGD 20 to 40 an hour, and research assistants SGD 12 to 18 an hour.
My Advice
Confirm your specific university's approved status and your exact visa conditions before you accept any part-time offer, since working beyond the limit can affect your Student's Pass. If you can secure tutoring or research assistant work instead of retail, the hourly pay is usually noticeably higher for the same 16 hour weekly cap.
How much can you actually earn part-time in Singapore?
See how part-time work fits into your total budget and visa funds.
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