Working as a student: How to balance university and a part-time job

Written by: Christina Pichler, 18.09.2025

You want to gain your first work experience as a student, top up your bank account, or simply make productive use of your free time? Then you are not alone, because many students look for jobs alongside their studies to finance their education or give themselves a bit more financial freedom. No matter why you decide to work, a part-time job can be an extremely valuable experience.

To successfully balance university and work, you’ll need good time management skills and realistic expectations above all. In this article, we’ll show you what really matters when working as a student.

Table of Contents:

Why work while studying? Benefits & challenges

A part-time job during your studies can come with a lot of benefits. A regular income means more independence and helps cover rent, groceries, or study materials. On top of that, working as a student gives you the chance to gain your first professional experience, even if the job isn’t directly related to your field of study.

If you’re still unsure which career path to take, different jobs can help you discover what suits you best. At the same time, working part-time allows you to build valuable soft skills such as teamwork and stress management, needed in any profession. You’ll also have the opportunity to network, which could later lead to internships or even job offers. And who knows, maybe you’ll even meet your next work bestie through your student job.

Despite all the advantages, it’s important not to underestimate the challenges. The biggest difficulty is often finding the right balance between your studies and your job. Exam periods in particular can quickly become stressful and overwhelming. If you work too many hours, you’ll not only have less time for university but also less free time. In some cases, having a part-time job can lead to a longer duration of your studies. On top of that, you’ll need to keep an eye on the legal framework, because if you’re receiving a study grant, for example, certain income limits may apply.

Which student job suits me?

Do you mainly want to gain your first work experience and prepare for your future career path, or are you simply looking for a flexible job that fits well alongside your studies? Both are possible, but the choice depends entirely on your personal goals and current situation.

Before applying for a job, it’s important to realistically consider how much time you can invest without neglecting your studies. Do you want to work just a few hours or up to 20 per week? Are you open to working weekends or taking on half-day shifts during the week? The clearer you are about your own capacity, the easier it will be to find the right job.

Also think about what you personally expect to gain from working as a student. Is it just a short-term solution to make ends meet, or do you want to start building a career perspective already? Of course, money is an important factor, but a part-time job that brings you some joy or gives you the feeling of doing something meaningful can also help you grow on a personal level.

So think about what you enjoy, where your strengths lie, and how you can put them to good use. Honest self-assessment is the key to finding a job that not only fits into your life but also helps you move forward in the long run.

Student jobs in Austria: These part-time jobs are available

A classic student job often has little to do with your field of study and is mainly about earning money. Basically everything is possible, from waiting tables to working as a swimming instructor. These jobs are usually quite flexible and easy to get. Typical student jobs include:

  • Waiting tables
  • Tutoring
  • Retail
  • Reception work
  • Writing for websites
  • Social media management for companies

Check out platforms like studentjob.at or willhaben.at for current part-time job offers for students.

If you’d prefer something more relevant to your field, there are also other options. As a student assistant, for example, you can work directly at your university doing research, organising courses, or as a tutor. Internships or part-time jobs in your field of study are also smart if you want to actively work on your career path. Even though they’re often not as well-paid, they provide valuable insights, practical experience, and helpful contacts for the future.

Many students work in a marginal employment arrangement, where you can earn up to €551.10 per month (as of 2025) without paying social security contributions or income tax. But be careful: this doesn’t automatically include health insurance. For that, you’ll need to be covered either through your parents’ insurance or through a student health insurance plan.

Tip: If you earn above the marginal employment limit, you can get part of your contributions back through the annual tax adjustment.

The important thing is that you keep looking and stay persistent – you will eventually find something that works for you! ©Adobe Stock
The important thing is that you keep looking and stay persistent – you will eventually find something that works for you! ©Adobe Stock

Applying for a student job: Our tips & common mistakes

Once you’ve found a suitable job advertisement, the first impression counts, and that starts with a convincing application. Choose a professional layout and make sure to avoid spelling mistakes. If you’re sending your application by post or handing it in directly, don’t print it on scrap paper, and make sure it isn’t wrinkled before submitting it. Ideally, you should put all your documents neatly in an application folder.

What belongs in an application letter for a student or part-time job?

An application letter is structured in the form of a letter and consists of an introduction, body, and closing.

Layout and letter format

  • Left side: your own address, followed by the company’s address
  • Right side: place and date
  • Subject line: job title + reference number (if applicable)
  • Salutation: ideally address a specific person rather than using “Dear Sir or Madam”

Content:

  • Introduction: Start with something creative, spark interest, and avoid clichés. Highlight specific strengths or achievements.
  • Body: Show why you are the right fit for this job. Emphasize relevant skills, soft skills, and the value you bring to the company.
  • Closing: End confidently, invite them to an interview, and finish with a proper closing formula and signature, without slipping into overly tentative wording.
Avoid careless mistakes and read through your application very carefully multiple times! ©Adobe Stock

CV for Students: How to Present Yourself Convincingly

The CV is often the first thing being read and is just as important as the application letter. Tailor it specifically to the position, and leave out unnecessary jobs or irrelevant experiences.

Structure:

  • Ideally 1 page, maximum 2 pages
  • Reverse chronological order – most recent experiences first
  • Layout suited to the job – creative design for creative industries, simple and clean for formal jobs
  • Application photo (usually in the top right corner)
  • Include personal details, education, relevant work experience, and any additional qualifications

There are plenty of free templates and examples online to help you get started. Tools like Canva make it easy to quickly design a good-looking CV.

Avoid careless mistakes and read through your application very carefully multiple times! ©Adobe Stock

Job Interview: How to Impress in a Student Job Interview

If your application is convincing, the next step is usually an interview. Research the company beforehand, think about why you want to work there, and what you can bring to the job. To build confidence and prepare your answers, you can also do a trial interview with friends.

It is important to stay calm and show yourself from your best side without pretending to be someone you’re not. Speak openly about your strengths, but don’t be afraid to admit where you could still use a bit of practice. Be prepared for the classic weaknesses question as well. Here are some tips on how to talk about strengths and weaknesses in an interview!

A confident appearance, clear answers, and genuine interest always leave the best impression. Here you’ll find even more tips for a successful job interview.

Study funding & alternatives to a part-time job

A part-time job is a popular way to earn money, but it’s not the only option. Many students rely on study grants (you can find the exact requirements here!), family allowance, scholarships, housing benefits, or student subsidies from local or regional authorities to cover their living expenses.

If you do decide to work as a student, make sure to keep an eye on income limits so you don’t risk losing financial support. Some types of aid are income-dependent and may be reduced if you earn too much.

Here you can find more information and details about all the different ways to finance your studies.

Study and work: How to manage your time effectively

Whether it’s waiting tables, tutoring, or working a small part-time job in your own field, having a student job provides valuable experience and helps finance your student life. To make both work and studies manageable, structured time management is key. Plan your week in advance, use a calendar, and block out fixed time slots for university, work, and free time.

Efficient methods like the Pomodoro technique can help you stay focused. Be realistic with your planning, since deadlines or last-minute shifts can always come up. And don’t forget to take care of yourself, because your health is the top priority, and regular self-care will keep you motivated in the long run.

This way, you’ll master the balance between studies, work, and free time without neglecting any part of your life.

FAQs: Your questions about student part-time jobs answered

Yes, students in Austria are allowed to work part-time alongside their studies

No. Students with a student Visa are usually only allowed to work part-time (so up to 20 hours a week).

Yes. Many students use part-time jobs to finance their studies or gain work experience.

It depends on your situation. Keep an eye on income limits if you receive financial aid, and make sure to plan enough time for your studies

Full-time work can put a lot of strain on your studies. Additionally, family allowance, study grants, or other financial support may be lost.

For family and study allowances, the current income limit is €15,000 gross per year (as of 2025). Generally, there is no limit to how much you can earn if you do not receive other financial aid.

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