France lets international students work alongside studies, which helps cover living costs. The rules are generous but specific. Here is what you can actually do.
The one-line version: a French student residence permit lets you work up to 964 hours per year, roughly 20 hours a week on average across the year. Pay is at least the French minimum wage (SMIC), and campus jobs, hospitality, retail, tutoring and internships are the common routes. French helps a lot.
The 964-hour rule
- Your student status permits about 964 hours/year of paid work (around 60% of full-time).
- That averages near 20 hours/week, with flexibility to work more in holidays and less in exam terms.
- You are paid at least the SMIC (French minimum wage); many student jobs pay around it.
Where students actually work
- On-campus jobs and university roles (often flexible around classes).
- Hospitality and retail (cafés, restaurants, shops), where some French is usually needed.
- Tutoring (English, maths, your subject), babysitting, delivery.
- Internships (stages) in your field, often paid and a strong bridge to a job, see post-study work.
Do not rely on a job to fund your degree. Part-time work helps with living costs, not tuition and proof-of-funds, which you must show upfront, see costs. And French opens far more and better-paid student jobs, see the language reality.
FAQ
How many hours can a student work in France?
About 964 hours per year, roughly 20 hours a week on average, with more possible in holidays.
Do I need French for a student job?
For most customer-facing jobs, yes. Campus jobs, tutoring and some internships can be more English-friendly.
Want tips on landing a student job in your French city? Ask a mentor for ₹500 →
