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What hourly wage can I expect from a part-time job as an international student in the USA?

07 Oct 2026 · Answered by Gangadhara N S · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

Students working part-time in the USA typically earn an estimated USD 12 to USD 20 per hour. At about 20 hours weekly where permitted, that is roughly USD 960 to USD 1,600 per month. Actual earnings vary with hours, state minimum wage (federal USD 7.25), employer and role.

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Students working part-time in the USA typically earn an estimated USD 12 to 20 (approx INR 1,157 to 1,928) per hour. At about 20 hours a week where permitted, that comes to roughly USD 960 to 1,600 (approx INR 92,525 to 1.54 L) per month.

Approximate wages in the USA

MeasureApproximate amount (USD)
Hourly wage12 to 20 (approx INR 1,157 to 1,928)
Monthly earnings960 to 1,600 (approx INR 92,525 to 1.54 L)

What affects what you earn

  • The monthly estimate assumes an average of 20 working hours per week where permitted.
  • Actual earnings change with working hours, state minimum wage rules (the federal minimum is USD 7.25 (approx INR 699) an hour but varies by state), employer policies and job role.
  • Part-time earnings can help cover a portion of your monthly living expenses.

My Advice

Use these figures to offset part of your living costs, not to fund your tuition. Check your visa's permitted hours before you plan your income, and compare the wage against the local cost of living in your university city.

How much can you actually earn part-time in the USA?

See how part-time work fits into your total budget and visa funds.

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