Washington: Indian students pursuing higher education in the United States face dwindling opportunities for part-time jobs, a recent study has revealed.

Many Indian students rely on part-time work, such as positions at gas stations and supermarkets, to cover living expenses.

However, current U.S. regulations limit international students to working only on-campus, creating significant challenges for those seeking additional income.

In response to these restrictions, many Indian students have turned to babysitting, which offers some flexibility.

A student from Hyderabad, studying in Ohio, shared their experience: “I take care of a 6-year-old for 8 hours a day and earn $13 an hour, along with meals. While it's a safe job, competition among students drives wages down.”

According to the Open Doors report, the U.S. hosts large numbers of Indian students, including 39,000 in Texas, 20,000 in Illinois, 13,500 in Ohio, and 7,000 in Connecticut.

Notably, in states like Texas, New York, and New Jersey, nearly 50% of these students are engaged in babysitting jobs, often earning below-average wages.

Students planning to study in the U.S. should carefully consider the limited part-time work options and prepare accordingly. The promise of easily available jobs may no longer align with current realities, emphasizing the importance of financial planning and awareness.