17 ways to make money studying in Germany in 2025
With a minimum wage of €12.82 per hour and more than 2 million vacancies available in the market, the country offers excellent opportunities for those seeking to balance studies and work. Discovering how to make money in Germany as a student can make all the difference in your international experience.
The German market is known for valuing international students. Recent research shows that Brazilians are among the highest-paid professionals in the country, surpassing even the average wage of native Germans. For students participating in the program Study and Work in Germany, the possibilities are even greater.
Regulations for student work in Germany
Before exploring opportunities, it's important to understand the rules. International students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and 40 hours during holidays. This flexibility allows you to stay focused on your studies while gaining practical experience.
With the New German minimum wage, even basic jobs offer decent compensation. For those looking for more specific opportunities, it is worth consulting our guide on How to find part-time jobs in Germany.
17 proven ways to make money
1. Jobs in technology and startups
Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg are true technological hubs. IT, design, and digital marketing students find opportunities in:
- Freelance web development
- Technical support in startups
- Graphic design for small businesses
- Social network management
Average compensation: €15-25 per hour
2. Academic Research Assistant
German universities hire students to assist teachers in:
- Data collection and analysis
- Library organization
- Laboratory support
- Correction of evidence
Advantage: Direct experience in your field of study
3. Private teacher and tutoring
The demand for private tuition is high, especially in:
- English and Portuguese for Germans
- Mathematics and exact sciences
- Preparing for university exams
- Languages for other foreigners
Hint: Platforms such as Superprof and Studienkreis facilitate contact with students.
4. Jobs in gastronomy
Restaurants, cafes, and bars are always looking for employees. Opportunities include:
- Waiter/Waitress
- Kitchen assistant
- Barista
- Food deliveryman
Extra benefit: Gratuities can significantly increase income.
5. Child caregiver (Babysitter)
German families value responsible caregivers. This work offers:
- Flexible hours
- Good compensation (€12-18/hour)
- Opportunity to practice German
- Cozy family atmosphere
6. Translation and interpretation
Your fluency in Portuguese is a competitive advantage for:
- Document translation
- Interpretation at events
- Localization of digital content
- Support for Brazilian companies
7. Digital Content Freelancer
The German digital market is looking for professionals to:
- Blog writing
- Creation of content for social networks
- Copywriting for e-commerce
- Revision of texts
8. Jobs in logistics and delivery
With the growth of e-commerce, there is demand for:
- Bike or car delivery people
- Separation of orders in stock
- Product packaging
- Support at distribution centers
9. Sales and customer service
Especially valuable in cities with a strong international presence:
- Salesman in stores
- Telephone service
- Multilingual online support
- Event Promoter
10. Seasonal jobs
Take advantage of the seasons for temporary opportunities:
- Summer: Festivals, outdoor events, tourism
- Winter: Christmas markets, ski resorts
- Spring/Fall: Harvesting, gardening
11. Paid research and studies
Universities and companies pay for participation in:
- Market research
- Psychological studies
- Product testing
- Focus groups
Compensation: €20-50 per session
12. Freelance photography and design
For creative students:
- Event photography
- Graphic design for small businesses
- Video editing
- Creation of websites
13. Sports instructor
If you have sports skills:
- Personal trainer
- Soccer instructor
- Dance teacher
- Swimming technician
14. Work at events
Germany hosts thousands of annual events:
- Hostess/developer
- Assembly and disassembly
- Access control
- Technical support
15. Cleaning services
Cleaning companies offer:
- Flexible hours
- Independent work
- Good compensation
- Possibility for growth
16. App driver
In some German cities it is possible to work as:
- Uber driver (where allowed)
- Bicycle deliveryman
- Driver for the elderly
- Transportation of changes
17. Online course creation
Monetize your knowledge by creating:
- Online Portuguese courses
- Classes on Brazilian culture
- Tutorials for your skills
- Specialized workshops
Where to find these opportunities
Main digital platforms:
Local networks:
- University murals
- Facebook groups for Brazilians in Germany
- Networking at student events
- Recommendations from teachers
Benefits other than income
Working while studying in Germany offers advantages that go far beyond money:
Professional development:
- International experience in the curriculum
- Global networking
- Intercultural Skills
- Fluency in German
Personal growth:
- Financial independence
- Time management
- Problem solving
- trusts
Future opportunities:
- Contacts for postgraduate studies
- Professional references
- Possibility of effective hiring
- Basis for an international career
Strategies to Maximize Your Income
Combine multiple sources
Don't rely on just one job. Combine:
- A fixed part-time job
- Freelances on weekends
- Seasonal work during the holidays
- Specific projects
Invest in valued skills
The German market values professionals in areas of high demand. Consider developing competencies in:
- Programming and development
- Digital marketing
- Data analysis
- Sustainability and renewable energy
Negotiate salaries
Do not accept the first amount offered. Research average salaries and negotiate based on:
- Your previous experience
- Language skills
- Availability of schedules
- Academic references
Important care
Legal issues:
- Respect the 20-hour weekly limit
- Declare income properly
- Keep documentation organized
- Inform the university when necessary
Studies-work balance:
- Always prioritize studies
- Organize realistic schedules
- Communicate with employers about evidence
- Use work to complement learning
Be Easy
Transforming your academic experience in Germany into a financially sustainable journey is entirely possible with proper planning. A Be Easy offers full support for students who want to work while they study, from visa guidance to connections with local employers. Our expert team helps you navigate the German labor market safely and efficiently. Contact us and discover how we can facilitate your study and work journey in Germany!
