Skip to content Skip to footer

Study and work in Canada

Study and work in Canada

Canadian colleges and universities offer a plethora of programs for international students. Educational institutions offer courses in multiple disciplines such as Arts, Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Health Sciences and Medicine, Law, Natural Sciences, and Mathematics. These courses are internationally recognized and have been designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful career. Canada is known to be the best place for students not only for educational criteria but also for work opportunities. Unlike other countries in the world, international students in Canada are allowed to work on-campus or off-campus during their studies in Canada. 

Work on-campus/off-campus while study

The current Canadian legislation allows international students in Canada to work up to 20 hours per week when school is in session both on-campus and off-campus while they are studying. On-campus work is usually easier to find, as students are often given the opportunity to work in the library, student union, or other campus facilities. It is important to note that the work hours must not interfere with a student’s studies.

Work in summer break

Students are permitted to work more than 20 hours during the summer holidays. In general, Canadian universities and colleges require studying in fall and winter terms, while summer term is usually a break. Therefore, students are allowed to work up to 40 hours per week during the summer break.

Work through Co-op placement and Internships

International students do internships and participate in co-op placements. Both internships and co-op placements are usually a part of their program of study. Students enrolled in the programs which require completing a co-op or an internship to graduate are allowed to work on or off-campus and even out of Canada. Internships and co-op placements are very crucial since students gain valuable Canadian and International experience, which help them get a job once they graduate. In addition, international students can work part-time in the private sector or for the Canadian Government.

A part-time position on campus of the college is allowed to international students in addition to their 20 hours per week off-campus jobs. Thus, students can combine their studies and jobs. In the other words, international students can work more to support themselves, however, no more than 20 hours weekly off-campus to comply with the immigration laws.

Work after graduation

Foreign students who study for eight months or more in Canada are eligible to apply for a Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) of up to three years. To be eligible for the PGWP, it is a must for international students to study at a designated learning institution (DLI). In turn, PGWP allows gaining Canadian work experience before applying for a permanent residence.

Canadian work environment

Since Canada is well-known for the quality of education, Canadian degrees, diplomas, and certificates are recognized worldwide. After getting a post-secondary education in Canada, students possess such a high level of education and skills that they succeed almost in all fields.

In Canada, workers are protected both at the provincial and federal levels. The Government of Canada created the best work environment for workers, providing minimum wage levels for all provinces, health and safety standards, hours of work limitations, annual paid vacation, maternity and paternity leave, etc. In addition, Canadian legislation supports people from all ages, genders, races, religions, nationalities, and sexual orientations, prohibiting all forms of discrimination.

To find a good job after graduation, international students can look for a job on the Government of Canada’s Job Bank platform, start their own businesses, or use the services of recruitment companies. Canada not only provides opportunities to students to develop their career skills but also gives them employment prospects to make a good living. 

Canada is the best choice for you

Canada is the best country to study and work in at the same time. Students who are looking for a career change or want to gain valuable skills can easily do so while studying in Canada. Canada offers a range of programs that students can choose from, and this makes it easier for them to find the right course that meets their needs. 

If you need more info on how you can work and study in Canada, do not hesitate to book a call with us.

Leave a comment