Choosing to study nursing in Australia is a life-changing decision for many international students. With world-class universities, a multicultural environment, and excellent career opportunities, Australia is one of the most popular destinations for nursing education.
However, nursing students must juggle demanding coursework, long clinical placements, and part-time work—all while adjusting to life in a new country. Striking the right balance between studies, work, and wellbeing is essential for success. This guide explores student visa work rights, job opportunities, challenges, and practical strategies for maintaining balance as an international nursing student.
Student Visa Work Rights & Regulations
International nursing students typically study on a Subclass 500 Student Visa, which grants limited work rights:
Work During Study: Up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters.
Semester Breaks: Full-time work allowed during official breaks.
Postgraduate Students: Masters by Research/PhD students often have no work limits.
Clinical Placements: Count as study requirements, not work hours (but confirm with your provider).
Tracking your hours is vital when you study nursing in Australia—visa breaches can risk your stay.
Can Nursing Students Work in Healthcare?
Yes! Many international students find healthcare-related part-time work, such as:
Aged Care Worker
Disability Support Worker
Personal Care Assistant (PCA)
Medical Receptionist
Enrolled Nurse (EN) – if qualified and registered
These roles provide income, real-world skills, and networks—helping you succeed while you study nursing in Australia.
Other Part-Time Jobs Popular with Nursing Students
Many students balance schedules with flexible non-healthcare jobs like:
Retail (supermarkets, stores)
Hospitality (cafés, restaurants)
Tutoring or peer mentoring
Administration roles
Cleaning and casual labour
The Challenge of Balancing Studies and Work
Nursing programs in Australia are intense, requiring:
Unpredictable placements (weekdays, weekends, evenings)
Academic workload (assignments, labs, exams)
Physical/mental fatigue from long shifts
Financial stress due to tuition and living costs
Strategies to Maintain Work-Life Balance
Prioritise your studies and clinical placements.
Choose flexible jobs that suit student schedules.
Manage time with planners or apps.
Care for your health with sleep, exercise, and nutrition.
Track work hours to stay within visa rules.
Build a support network with classmates and student groups.
Financial Planning for Nursing Students
Part-Time Pay: $22–$30/hour
Weekly Earnings: $500–$650 for ~20–24 hours work
Budget Tip: Use wages for living costs, not tuition
Proper planning helps international students who study nursing in Australia avoid overwork and burnout.
Case Study: Indian and Filipino Students in Nursing
Strengths: Prior science/health backgrounds aid adaptation.
Challenges: Fierce competition for part-time jobs.
Success: Prioritising placements, healthcare jobs, and community networking.
Example of a Balanced Week
3 days: Classes, labs, tutorials
1–2 days: Clinical placements
20 hrs: Part-time work (evenings/weekends)
Exam week: Reduce work to 8–12 hrs
Semester break: Full-time work opportunities
Risks of Poor Balance
Delayed graduation
Academic failure
Visa breaches
Burnout and stress
Poor clinical performance
Conclusion
Balancing studies, placements, and part-time work is one of the biggest challenges for international students who study nursing in Australia. Careful planning, flexible jobs, and prioritising wellbeing are key to success.
Take the Next Step
Considering a nursing degree in Australia? The right support makes all the difference.
Apply now or book a free consultation to find the best nursing program, plan your study-work-life balance, and prepare for success as an international nursing student.