After completing +2, many Nepali students face an important decision: should the focus be only on studies, or is it better to study and work at the same time?
With rising education costs, increasing competition, and early career pressure, studying and working together after +2 has become a popular option in Nepal. But is this path suitable for everyone?
This blog explains what studying and working side by side really means, its benefits, challenges, legal aspects in Nepal, and how to decide whether it is the right choice.
What Does Studying and Working Together After +2 Mean?
Studying and working together after +2 usually refers to:
- Enrolling in a college or university program
- Doing part-time jobs, internships, or flexible work alongside studies
- Managing both academic responsibilities and work schedules simultaneously
In Nepal, this commonly includes:
- Working in hospitality, retail, offices, IT support, or internships
- Choosing courses with flexible class timings
- Gaining real-world experience while continuing formal education
This approach is different from full-time employment and is mostly focused on earning experience and supporting expenses, not replacing education.
Why Many Nepali Students Choose to Work While Studying
Many students in Nepal choose to work after +2 for practical and personal reasons:
- To support education expenses
- To reduce financial pressure on family
- To gain early work experience
- To become independent and confident
- To understand career interests before long-term commitment
For students from middle-income families, studying and working together often feels like a necessary and responsible decision, not just a choice.
Advantages of Studying and Working Side by Side After +2
When managed well, this path offers several benefits:
- Earn while studying to manage personal and academic expenses
- Gain practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge
- Improve communication, teamwork, and time management
- Build confidence and professional discipline early
- Get clarity about career goals before graduation
Employers increasingly value experience, and students who work early often develop better workplace readiness.
Challenges Students Should Know Before Choosing This Path
Studying and working together is not easy. Students should be aware of the challenges:
- Time management pressure between classes, assignments, and work
- Risk of academic performance dropping
- Physical and mental fatigue
- Limited social or personal time
- Poor job choices that do not add learning value
Ignoring these challenges can lead to burnout or incomplete education, which is why careful planning is essential.
Is It Legal to Work While Studying After +2 in Nepal?
Yes, working while studying after +2 is legal in Nepal.
There are:
- No strict laws preventing students from part-time work
- No specific student work-hour limits like foreign countries
However, students should:
- Avoid unsafe or exploitative jobs
- Choose ethical and skill-based work
- Ensure work does not interfere with academic commitments
Parental guidance and institutional support play an important role here.
Best Courses After +2 for Students Who Want to Work
Not all courses are suitable for working students. Some programs naturally offer more flexibility and practical exposure.
Courses that work well with part-time jobs:
- IT and Computer Science – flexible schedules, internships, freelance options
- Business and Management – office jobs, internships, practical projects
- Hospitality Management – industry exposure, shift-based work
- International degree programs with structured academic planning
These courses focus on skill development, making work experience a valuable extension of classroom learning.
A Realistic Note: This Is Not for Every Student in Nepal
It is important to be clear about one thing.
This blog is NOT talking about students who must spend their entire day on studies, such as:
- Students preparing for highly competitive entrance exams
- Students in programs with heavy daily classes and lab hours
- Students who already struggle academically and need full focus
- Students with health, mental pressure, or family constraints
In Nepal, many students already have:
- Long commuting hours
- Packed class schedules
- Academic pressure from family expectations
For such students, trying to work alongside studies can do more harm than good.
Who Should Choose Study and Work Together After +2?
This path is suitable for students who:
- Are disciplined and self-motivated
- Can manage time effectively
- Have clear academic priorities
- Want early career exposure
- Are financially responsible
For such students, working while studying can be a smart long-term investment.
Conclusion: Is Studying and Working Together After +2 Right for You?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Studying and working together after +2 in Nepal can be a great opportunity if:
- The course is flexible
- The work is meaningful
- The student maintains academic focus
However, without proper planning and discipline, it can also become overwhelming. The right decision depends on personal goals, financial situation, course structure, and mindset.
Taking guidance from academic counselors and choosing the right institution and program can make this journey smoother and more rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work while studying after +2 in Nepal?
Yes – many students in Nepal do part-time work or internships while studying after +2. This can include jobs in cafes, retail stores, hospitality, or internships related to your field of study. However, not all students have enough free time to do so, especially those with heavy class schedules or long commute times.
2. What kinds of jobs can +2 students do while studying?
After +2, common part-time jobs in Nepal include:
- Retail sales assistant
- Waiter / barista
- Customer service representative
- Office support roles
- Internships (field-specific)
Some students also try online work such as freelance projects.
3. Do part-time jobs help my studies?
Yes, if the work is related to what you study, it can reinforce learning and improve understanding. Students working in jobs related to their field often find they can apply classroom theory to real situations, which improves both academic performance and practical skills.
4. How much can a student earn while working in Nepal?
Earnings vary widely depending on the job. Some students reported working long days in hospitality or retail and earning modest monthly income, though this may not be enough to cover all expenses.
5. Will working affect my academic performance?
It can. Managing both work and studies is a challenge. If you take on too many hours or choose a demanding job, academic performance may drop, and fatigue can build up. Planning and time management are very important.
6. Is there a good environment for students to earn while studying in Nepal?
The environment for studying and earning in Nepal is still developing. Many students mention that steady, well-paid student jobs are not easy to find and that work opportunities are limited compared to some other countries.
7. Can I find work related to my future career while studying?
Yes – internships or field-related work help you build a resume. Internships in IT, business, or marketing fields are sometimes offered by companies and can give both income and experience.
8. Should every student try to study and work together?
No. Students with heavy academic schedules, competitive exam preparation, or health and family responsibilities may find it stressful and harmful to their studies. It works best for those who can manage their time, have flexible classes, and prioritize their goals.