For Pakistani students at Study at Boston University, managing expenses is challenging. Tuition, housing, and living costs add up to nearly $100,000 per year in 2026. Many students explore part-time jobs near campus to supplement their budget and gain experience.
Quick Overview
- Work on F-1 Visa: Students can work up to 20 hours/week during semester and full-time during breaks
- Types of jobs: On-campus, off-campus, internships
- Focus: Budget management, skill-building, and networking
Tip: Part-time jobs help cover personal expenses but will not cover tuition.
1. On-Campus Jobs
Advantages:
- Flexible hours around classes
- No travel required
- Employers understand student schedules
Common Positions:
| Job Type | Average Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Library assistant | $15–$18/hr | Organizing books, helping students |
| Campus dining staff | $14–$16/hr | Cafeteria, coffee shops |
| Research assistant | $18–$22/hr | Academic departments; enhances resume |
| Student ambassador | $15–$20/hr | Tours, events, marketing |
| IT support assistant | $17–$20/hr | Tech help for students and faculty |
Tip: On-campus jobs are competitive, so apply early after arrival.
2. Off-Campus Jobs
F-1 students can work off-campus only with proper authorization:
- CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Internships related to your major, can be paid or unpaid
- OPT (Optional Practical Training): Work for up to 12 months after graduation (STEM can extend 24 months)
Popular Nearby Jobs:
- Cafes and restaurants in Allston, Fenway, Brookline
- Tutoring local high school or university students
- Retail stores in Boston city centers
Tip: Ensure you have legal work authorization; unauthorized off-campus work can jeopardize your visa.
3. Paid Internships
- Many majors (Business, Engineering, Computer Science) require internships
- Pay: $18–$30/hr depending on company
- Locations: Boston tech hubs, financial firms, startups, healthcare institutions
Advantages:
- Real-world experience
- Resume-building
- Networking opportunities
Tip: Start looking 3–6 months in advance for competitive internships.
4. Freelancing and Online Work
- Remote work is an option for students with F-1 Visa Process restrictions (on-campus or CPT/OPT rules apply)
- Examples: Web design, coding, content writing, tutoring online
- Platforms: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer
Tip: Make sure you comply with visa rules; F-1 visa limits off-campus online work without authorization.
5. Typical Earnings and Budget Impact
| Job Type | Hours/Week | Monthly Earnings (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| On-campus library | 10–15 | $600–$1,000 |
| Dining / retail | 15–20 | $700–$1,200 |
| Internship | 20 | $1,500–$2,500 |
Reality check: Part-time work covers personal expenses, transport, food, but tuition must be pre-planned.
6. Tips to Maximize Part-Time Job Success
- Start early: Apply immediately after arrival
- Maintain GPA: Academic performance is priority
- Use BU career services: They post on-campus and local jobs
- Network: Ask seniors, faculty, and peers about opportunities
- Plan schedule: Avoid conflicts with classes and exams
7. Pakistani Student Experience
- Many students work in cafes, libraries, and research labs
- Sharing experiences in student forums helps find opportunities faster
- Some students combine part-time work with CPT internships for experience and income
8. Bottom Line
Part-time jobs near Boston University are available and legal, but:
- On-campus work is simpler and safer
- Off-campus work requires CPT/OPT authorization
- Earnings help cover living costs, not tuition
- Planning, early applications, and networking are key
For Pakistani students, part-time work also provides cultural exposure, networking, and resume enhancement, making it an integral part of the Boston University experience.
