Can I do a part time job while studying MBBS in China 2025

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Part-time Jobs for MBBS Students in China

Many Pakistani students planning to study MBBS in China often wonder if they can take part-time jobs alongside their studies. Part-time work can provide financial relief, valuable work experience, and help students improve their communication skills while living in a foreign country. With MBBS tuition fees in China already affordable compared to private medical colleges in Pakistan, many students consider part-time jobs as a way to ease their financial journey further.

However, China has strict rules for international students regarding employment. The government allows part-time work only with university approval and proper permits, and working illegally can result in fines, visa cancellation, or deportation.

Soft Consultants can guide Pakistani students in balancing their MBBS studies with part-time opportunities in China, ensuring they comply with all rules while gaining valuable experience. Students joining the September 2025 or March 2026 intake can explore part-time work options once they settle in.

Are Part-time jobs for MBBS students in China allowed?

Yes, MBBS students in China are allowed to work part-time, but strict rules apply. International students on an X1 or X2 visa must obtain approval from their university or the Public Security Bureau (PSB) before starting any employment. Directly working in unapproved jobs is illegal and can jeopardize your student visa.

On-campus positions, internships in hospitals or research institutions, and certain freelance opportunities are usually permitted. For example, a Pakistani student, Ali, studying MBBS in Shanghai, started with a library assistant job and later joined a clinical research internship after getting approval from his university. These experiences not only provided financial support but also enhanced his CV and local networking skills.

Students can also work full-time during long university vacations but must always follow the allowed working hours during semesters.

Rules for doing Part-time jobs for MBBS students in China

Age Requirement: Must be 18 or above. (Most FSc graduates are 18–22.)
Working Hours: Max 20–25 hours/week during semesters; full-time allowed only in vacations. (Working 30 hours/week without permit is illegal.)
Visa Requirement: X1/X2 student visas need university or PSB approval. (Students must submit documents via Soft Consultants for legal permits.)
Permitted Jobs: On-campus, internships, freelancing, tutoring. Not allowed to practice as a doctor. (Ali worked as a library assistant and clinical research intern.)
Illegal Work: Working without a permit, exceeding hours, or unapproved medical practice can lead to fines, deportation, or visa cancellation.

Notes:

X1 visa: Long-term study visa; requires PSB approval for part-time work.
X2 visa: Short-term study visa; limited work options, mostly on-campus.

Soft Consultants helps students complete documentation and avoid risks.

🌏 Popular Part-Time Jobs for MBBS Students in China

Job Type	Description	Avg. Pay (RMB/Month)	Approx. PKR
Tutoring	English or Science tutoring for Chinese students	2,500–5,000	84,000–168,000
On-Campus Jobs	Library assistant, lab assistant, cafeteria staff	1,500–3,000	50,400–100,800
Medical Internships	Clinical training, research assistance	2,000–4,000	67,200–134,400
Freelancing	Online tutoring, content writing, graphic design	2,500–6,000	84,000–201,600
Customer Service / Retail	Call centers, sales reps, store assistant	1,800–3,500	60,480–117,600

Examples for Pakistani Students:

📘 Home tutoring is in demand in major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou.
💻 Online freelancing on Fiverr or Upwork allows flexibility outside university hours.
🏥 Internships in hospitals or research labs provide both experience and a stipend.
🌐 These jobs help cover expenses, improve language skills, and build professional networks.

💡 Benefits of Part-Time Jobs for MBBS Students in China

Financial Support: Part-time jobs help cover rent, groceries, transportation, and bills. A library assistant or tutor can earn RMB 2,500–5,000 (~PKR 84,000–168,000).
Cultural Integration: Working with locals improves Mandarin, builds friendships, and eases cultural adjustment.
Career Benefits: Medical internships offer hands-on training, while non-medical jobs develop soft skills and boost CVs.
Time Management & Discipline: Balancing MBBS studies with part-time work prepares students for high-pressure medical environments.
Confidence & Networking: Jobs enhance communication, confidence, and professional networking, opening doors for future opportunities.

⚠️ Challenges & Limitations of Part-Time Jobs

Strict Rules & Regulations: Unauthorized work or exceeding hours can cause fines, visa cancellation, or deportation. Always get university or PSB approval first.
Language Barrier: Many jobs require Mandarin. English tutoring and freelancing are easier options, but learning basic Chinese increases opportunities.
Study Pressure: MBBS is tough. Too many job hours may affect grades or clinical practice. Balance is key.
Limited Medical-Related Work: Only internships or research are allowed. Practicing as a doctor/nurse without a license is illegal.
Need for Guidance: Navigating permits and jobs is tricky. Soft Consultants provides expert guidance to keep students safe and compliant.

🙋 FAQs

Q1: Can MBBS students work without learning Chinese?

Yes, but English tutoring, freelancing, or on-campus roles are easier. High-paying jobs usually require basic Mandarin.

Q2: How much can Pakistani students earn per month?

Between RMB 1,500–6,000 (~PKR 50,000–200,000), depending on the job type.

Q3: What jobs are suitable for medical students?

Internships, research, pharmacy roles, and tutoring medical subjects.

Q4: Can students send money home?

Yes, via approved banking channels, while following visa and tax rules.

Q5: Do part-time jobs affect MBBS performance?

If students exceed 20–25 hrs/week or mismanage time, grades can drop. Proper planning avoids this.

Q6: Are part-time jobs enough to cover tuition?

No. They cover living expenses, not tuition. Scholarships or funding are needed for fees.

Q7: Can students switch from X visa to a work visa after MBBS?

Yes. After graduation, students can apply for work visas in China or abroad.

📌 Conclusion

Part-time jobs in China offer financial relief, experience, and cultural exposure, but students must follow rules strictly. MBBS in China is already affordable, and combining studies with approved jobs makes life easier.

Pakistani students joining the September 2025 or March 2026 intake can explore part-time work after settling in. Soft Consultants assists with admissions, visas, and legal part-time job guidance to ensure a safe and smooth MBBS journey.