Career support for international students

Visit our career planning page to find out how you can research industries, organisations and opportunities. It's also a good idea to engage with the Careers Centre to learn more about what employers expect and value. We run a comprehensive Career Development Program for international students which will help you understand the recruitment process and enable you to present yourself effectively in your job applications and interviews.

Do you know how much you should get paid per hour or whether an unpaid job is legal? Read about pay rates and your rights and responsibilities at work to inform your job search and work choices. Some other useful resources include:  

• Scamwatch contains up to date information on employment scams. You can also contact us if you have doubts about the legitimacy of a job offer or employer. 
• The Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association (SUPRA) (for postgraduates) or the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) (for undergraduates) offer legal assistance on employment issues such as discrimination, pay problems and unfair working conditions.

Consider the employability skills you have to offer an employer and think about any attributes that may make you stand out from other job applicants. You may find that you have some interesting ‘selling points’ as an international student, eg, language skills, international experience, cultural sensitivity, knowledge of foreign markets/businesses or the ability to rapidly adapt to different environments. Seek opportunities that will utilise your unique skills.

Australian employers expect you to graduate with solid employability skills as well as a degree. Alongside studying, you should engage in campus life activities that build your skill set and enhance your resume. Casual work and volunteering are also highly regarded by employers.

Most Australian employers will value your casual work experience, even if it is not relevant to your studies or industry. Taking on casual work will show your understanding of the Australian workplace, time management, and other transferable skills. Look for casual jobs on Sydney CareerHub.

Your resume may need to be adapted for an Australian audience. You may also need to write a cover letter or statement addressing selection criteria. Start practising your interview skills to gain confidence in answering questions. You can find out more about job applications and interviews in our International Student Career Development Program.

Even though some graduate roles are only open to Australian citizens or permanent residents, formal graduate programs are not the only place to begin your career. Consider the following strategies:

• Review our job search strategies for ideas on tapping into the hidden job market.
• Apply to small/medium organisations or startups. Some of these employers may be more open to hiring employees on student visas or other visas with work rights.
• Temporary, contract or project roles may be less likely to require a permanent residence visa.
• Network within expatriate communities to find opportunities that will make the most of your language skills or cultural understanding.
• Consider applying for overseas jobs within global organisations in your home country. You may be able to apply for a transfer to an Australian office in future.