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Student Jobs in Rotterdam — Complete Guide (2025)

By Student Jobs Rotterdam • Updated 2 October 2025

International students looking for English-speaking jobs near Rotterdam's Erasmus Bridge

Quick-start checklist

Work permits & hours

Rules differ by nationality and enrollment. As a general orientation (confirm specifics with your employer):

  • EU/EEA: usually free to work; standard Dutch employment rules apply.
  • Non-EU: many students are limited to ~16 h/week during the academic year (and more in summer) with the correct permission. Always verify your personal situation before accepting hours.

Contracts, pay & allowances

  • Types: part-time, on-call (0-uren), min-max, or temp/agency. Ask about guaranteed hours.
  • Pay: many student roles pay €13–€17/h. Tutoring can reach €15–€18+/h.
  • Allowances: evening/night/weekend premiums, travel reimbursements, and 8% holiday pay.
  • Payslip: check gross vs net, hours, and allowances each month.

Neighborhoods & commute tips

Rotterdam is spread out; quick commutes help you keep grades and income balanced:

  • Centrum/Markthal: hospitality/retail density and festivals.
  • Kralingen: near campus; café and tutoring gigs.
  • Waalhaven/Port: logistics & warehouse evening shifts.
  • Zuid/Zuidplein: retail and events; good metro links.

Best categories for students

  • Hospitality & Events: fast onboarding and flexible shifts.
  • Delivery & Logistics: reliable pay; evening schedules fit studies.
  • Tutoring: high hourly pay; great for strong English/specific subjects.
  • Sales / Support: international teams value language skills.

Where to find jobs (fast)

CV & message templates

Paste this into your notes/cover field for quick applications:

Hi! I’m a student in Rotterdam with availability on weekdays after 16:00 and weekends. I have customer-facing experience and can start immediately. CV attached. Thanks for your time!

Add a one-line skills bar on your CV: English C1 • Dutch A2 • Barista • Excel • Driver’s license B. List neighborhoods you can reach (Kralingen, Centrum, Zuidplein).

Weekly schedule that works with classes

  • Mon–Thu: 1–2 evening shifts (logistics, retail, hospitality).
  • Fri–Sun: 1–2 day/evening shifts (events, café).
  • Keep a stable weekly pattern; managers love predictability.

BSN, bank, taxes & payslips

  • BSN: required for payroll; keep the confirmation from your appointment if still pending.
  • Bank/IBAN: Dutch account speeds up payment.
  • Taxes: students often get refunds; keep payslips and annual statements.
Ready to apply?

Start here: see all jobs, English-friendly only or browse categories. Hiring? Feature your job.

FAQ

Is Dutch required?

Not always. Hospitality, logistics, delivery, events, and many tutoring roles are English-friendly. Basic Dutch helps for retail.

How many hours should I target?

Many students do 8–20 h/week. Confirm any restrictions tied to your residence/permit.

What’s a good starting wage?

Often €13–€17/h for hospitality/logistics and €15–€18+/h for tutoring, plus allowances where applicable.