- 19 Sep, 2023
- tom
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Balancing Study and Part-Time Jobs in Japan
Tips to manage your part-time jobs while studying in Japan | Akira Management
Some students, including Malaysians studying abroad, may face financial difficulties while studying overseas, especially in Japan. The Japanese government allows international students to work part-time while studying, and there are plenty of job opportunities available with high pay. However, managing the dual responsibilities of studying and working part-time can be challenging, especially for students. Akira Management is willing to help and give our best guidance to Malaysians who pursue their study in Japan. In this article, we’ll explore on how students can balance their study and part time jobs as an international student studying abroad in Japan.
Working in Japan
If you’re from Malaysia, to work legally in Japan, there’re a few laws and regulations that require you to follow. If you fail to follow the rules, you may be punished or the worst scenario is, you may get forced to leave the country.
Here’s the rules to work part-time as an international student in Japan:
- Must get permission from immigration to work part-time if you’re on a student visa. If you just arrived in Japan with a student visa for more than three months, you can ask for this permission at the airport when you arrive.
- Must not let your job interfere with your studies.
- The purpose is to cover tuition fees and other necessary expenses while studying abroad, and not to save money or send money.
- Must make sure it is not an adult entertainment business. *Prohibited by law.
- Must be within 28 hours per week (within 8 hours per day during long-term holidays).
- The work must be done while enrolled at an educational institution.
Finding the Right Part-Time Job
One of the first steps in balancing your academic and work lives in Japan is to find a job that suits you the best. When looking for a part-time job, you should consider your interests, skills, class schedule, and the amount of pay that you will get. You should also look for a job that is related to your work experience or aligns with your field of study, especially if you are studying abroad so you could prepare and have an early experience on how your work life is going to be. In Akira Management, we provide a consultation service and pathways to study in Japan for Malaysians. Here’s a few of beneficial information regarding part-time job in Japan for international students,
Allowed working period of part-time job for international students:
- 28 hours a week
- 8 hours a day during long-term holidays
Amount of earning that international students can get from their part-time job:
- Per hour: between 1,000 to 1,500 yen
- Per month: up to 120,000 to 180,000 yen (equals to RM4,500)
Occupations where international students often work part-time:
- Restaurant Business
- Sales
- Factory Assembly
- Teaching Assistant/Research Assistant
- Language Teacher
- Delivery
- Cleaning
- General Secretary
- Translation Interpretation
Managing Your Time
Effective time management is the key to balance work and study. You must set priorities for your tasks and make sure your academic and part-time job objectives are both clear. Remember, you should prioritize your study first over your part-time job. If you want to stay organized, you can use tools like calendars and to-do lists to make sure you will not miss any important events and tasks. You should learn to say no when your schedule becomes too hectic and consider choosing part-time jobs that offer flexibility in hours to avoid overloading yourself with work, as it could adversely affect your grades. Most important thing is, you should never neglect your study as stated in the regulations. Every year, some international students have to return to their country without being able to extend their period of stay because their attendance for their classes are affected as they focus too much on their part-time work. If you are having trouble managing your time, don’t be afraid to ask your academic advisors or mentors for assistance and communicate with your employer about your academic commitments.
Creating a Weekly Schedule
For students to effectively manage their time, especially for those who work part-time while studying, a well-structured weekly schedule is essential. Make a detailed schedule that includes your class schedule, study sessions, and work shifts. Allocate sufficient time for each activity and be realistic about your capabilities. Remember that flexibility is key, so adjust your schedule as needed to accommodate unexpected events.
Taking Good Care of Yourself
Your physical and mental well-being should always be a top priority. Managing stress and avoiding burnout is very important. Don’t forget to join any activities that you enjoy, join clubs or communities, and make friends to create a support system. Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or medical help if needed. A healthy you is better equipped to excel in your studies and work.
Conclusion
Balancing both of your studies and your part-time job in Japan can be challenging, yet it’s fulfilling and worthwhile, especially when you need additional income to support your living costs while studying overseas. With careful planning, effective time management, and self-care, Malaysian students can make the most of their experience in Japan. Keep in mind that achieving success involves more than just getting good grades or getting a good career; it also includes your own development and valuable experiences. If you’re a Malaysian student dreaming of studying and working in Japan, Akira is here to assist you every step of the way. Reach out to us for personalized guidance and support on your journey to Japan.
