Working during an Erasmus: student job ideas abroad
Good news! You have been accepted into an Erasmus programme for the next academic year 🎉
A unique experience that combines studies, cultural discovery and personal development.
But let’s be honest: living abroad comes at a cost.
Accommodation, transport, outings, travel… and even if the Erasmus grant helps, it does not always cover all expenses.
That’s why many students choose to work part-time during their Erasmus to earn some extra money, gain independence and fully enjoy the experience.
The good news?
👉 There are many student jobs abroad, even if you don’t speak the local language yet.
In this article, we share accessible job ideas, practical advice and common mistakes to avoid when looking for a student job during your Erasmus.
🤝 Can you work during an Erasmus?
Yes, absolutely.
In most European countries, Erasmus students are allowed to work, provided they comply with local legislation.
👉 working during an Erasmus legally.
Working during your Erasmus allows you to:
- supplement your income
- improve your language skills
- meet locals and other international students
- gain professional experience
- step out of your comfort zone
However, it’s important to maintain a healthy balance.
Your main goal should remain succeeding in your studies and fully enjoying your experience abroad, without burning out.
💃 Waiter or bartender: the classic choice
Working as a waiter or bartender is one of the most popular options among Erasmus students.
Why?
- little or no experience required
- many opportunities in tourist cities
- flexible hours
- ideal for improving a foreign language
In bars, restaurants or cafés, what matters most is:
- motivation
- energy
- willingness to learn
- people skills
If you don’t speak the language very well at first, don’t worry.
Many establishments offer positions:
- in the kitchen
- as an assistant
- at the bar without direct contact with customers
Over time, you’ll gain confidence and be able to interact more with locals.
👉 Practical tip:
Print your CV and hand it in directly at bars and restaurants. Human contact remains one of the most effective ways to find a job.
📞 Customer service advisor in a call center
Your native language is a real asset abroad.
Many international companies are looking for native-speaking students to work in call centers, especially in major European cities.
As a customer service advisor, you may:
- answer calls
- handle chats or emails
- support customers from your home country
Advantages:
- you work in your own language
- no high level of the local language required
- often international environment
- opportunity to meet other Erasmus students
This type of job is ideal if:
- you want to feel comfortable quickly
- you’re looking for hours compatible with your studies
- you want structured professional experience
To apply:
- check job boards
- apply directly to the company
- prepare a clear CV
- language tests may be required
📚 Private tutoring or teaching
If you have strong skills in your language or a specific subject, private tutoring is an excellent option.
Many students and professionals want to:
- learn French
- improve their level
- practice conversation
You can register on tutoring platforms and offer:
- in-person lessons
- online classes
- academic support
The benefits are numerous:
- flexible schedule
- excellent hourly pay
- non-physical work
- rewarding experience
On average, you can earn between €18 and €20 per hour.
Just a few hours per week are often enough to cover a large part of your expenses.
Teaching your language is also a great way to create meaningful intercultural exchanges.
💼 Other student job ideas for Erasmus students
Depending on the country and city, you may also find:
- jobs in hotels or hostels
- front desk positions
- event-related jobs
- brand promotion roles
- paid internships
- freelance online jobs
It all depends on:
- your availability
- your language level
- your motivation
🌐 Tips for finding a job abroad
Before you start, remember to:
- adapt your CV to the country
- research the minimum wage
- check local legislation
- organise your schedule well
- avoid undeclared work
- protect your health and balance
A job during your Erasmus should be a complement, not a burden.
🌍 Erasmus: much more than a job
Working during an Erasmus is not just about earning money.
It’s also about:
- learning to adapt
- gaining independence
- discovering another culture
- personal growth
It’s an experience that enhances your CV, but above all, your life.
After Erasmus?
If you are considering continuing your international experience with an internship abroad, Stud&Globe supports you at every stage of your project!
