Many international students choose to study in Canada because they get the privilege of working while studying.
Working as you study can help you sustain yourself and meet new people. You also get to develop connections and experience that will help you stand out in the job market later on.
The Canadian government has made it easier, as most international students in Canada can work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week and even 24 hours per week beginning in the fall of 2024.
They can also work full-time during specified breaks without a work visa. If you want to study and work in Canada, you’ll find this guide very helpful.
Stages to Begin Studying in Canada
Stage 1: Find the Right School or Program
Begin by researching to find the schools or programs that are the best fit for you. Think about where you want to live in Canada’s provinces and territories.
Across the country, you can select between smaller, inviting rural communities and major, lively metropolises.
Admission criteria in Canada vary by province, territory, and school. For further information about programs and admission criteria, you can contact the school directly.
If you have already earned credits at another institution and want to transfer them, contact the institution you are interested in directly to find out whether transfer credits, if any, can be transferred to your desired program of study.
Stage 2: Make a Budget
Studying in Canada is an affordable choice. College and university costs are generally lower than those in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (QS Top Universities).
You may look up and compare tuition and living expenses for various college and university programs across Canada.
To plan your budget, search to get cost estimates for:
- Food
- Housing
- Transportation
- Health insurance
There are several options to help finance your study, including: scholarships, fellowships, and grants; work while studying; and support from parents or family.
Stage 3: Apply to a School
When applying to your preferred institution, make sure to provide accurate information and all required documentation.
Your school will inform you of the documentation you need and the next steps to take. Keep in mind that the application fee will vary by institution. Make sure you apply well in advance.
Your school or a recognized third party may verify your credentials and qualifications. The documents may include:
- Report card
- Transcripts
- Academic credentials
Stage 4: Apply to Study in Canada
Once your institution sends you a letter of acceptance:
- Ensure to get a study permit from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Use the Student Direct Stream for a speedier study permit process.
- Learn how to prepare your documentation and apply online with the IRCC.
Step 5: Prepare to Travel to Canada
You can now plan your journey. Some of the things to do include the following:
- Plan your housing and accommodations.
- Identify your travel and health insurance needs.
- Book your flight(s) and understand baggage limitations and customs rules.
- Bring some Canadian currency.
- Prepare all the required documents, such as:
- The letter of acceptance from your school
- Keep medical and immunization records.
- Bring all the necessary documentation requested by your school.
Working while studying in Canada
When you get to Canada to study, you can search for jobs to help relieve your financial burdens.
But before you begin looking for your ideal student employment, here are some things you should know about working in Canada as an international student.
Eligibility
International students in Canada with a study permit who are enrolled full-time in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) may work off campus without a work permit.
This implies you can work for any employer in any occupation across Canada. International students may also work on campus if they desire.
On-Campus versus Off-Campus Work for International Students
Working off-campus means working for any employer other than the university or institution.
Working on campus entails working for any employer on the university or college’s campus, such as the university or college itself or a faculty member (as a research assistant, for example).
It could be for yourself (self-employed and working on campus), a student organization, or a private contractor providing services on campus, such as a gym or restaurant.
A student’s number of hours worked on campus is not limited as long as they are still eligible to work there.
Sufficient Financial Resources Requirement
It is crucial to note that, even if you intend to work while studying in Canada, you must still demonstrate adequate financial resources when applying for a study permit.
This implies that you must demonstrate that you have enough money to maintain yourself during your studies without working.
Anticipated future earnings will not suffice when demonstrating sufficient financial resources; therefore, the fact that you intend to work while studying in Canada will not meet the requirement to demonstrate financial capability before arrival.
Working with a Study Permit in Canada
Your study permit will state whether you are permitted to work in Canada, as well as the terms and conditions of employment.
Getting a Social Insurance Number Before Starting Work
This declaration allows you to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada; acquiring a SIN is a necessary step before you start working while studying in Canada.
If your study permit does not include the statement required to apply for SIN, you can get it modified for free.
While this can be done after you arrive, it is much easier to complete when you land and receive your study permit. If you have any questions concerning your work permission or your study permit, you can ask the officer at Immigration.
Restrictions: exchange programs, programs lasting less than six months, or language school programs.
If your study program lasts less than six months or you are enrolled in an English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) program, you are not permitted to work in Canada unless specifically allowed.
Furthermore, visiting or exchange students at a DLI are not allowed to work while studying in Canada.
Finding a job
Being eligible to work in Canada may seem like the easy part; the next step is to find work. Employers in Canada are typically eager to hire students for part-time positions, and there are a wide range of opportunities available.
Before you begin looking for employment or applying, you should prepare your résumé (CV) and cover letter.
Your resume and cover letter are your best opportunity to capture a potential employer’s attention and distinguish yourself as the best applicant for the job.
Your cover letter is an opportunity to highlight your personality and achievements. Create a personalized cover letter for each position, emphasizing how you meet the specific requirements they are searching for.
If you’re applying online, the cover letter can serve as your introductory email, with your resume attached as a PDF.
There are other job search options, like Indeed, Monster, and Craigslist, which offer several part-time job advertisements.
- Review local companies’ careers pages after shortlisting potential employers.
- Your city or town may offer a career portal for leisure centers, libraries, and administration.
- You may also take a trip around your neighborhood to see if any stores or restaurants are advertising for employees in their windows.
If you try this strategy, bring paper copies of your résumé, dress professionally (e.g., a collared shirt; avoid blue jeans), and be aware of your availability.
If it looks promising, feel free to ask to talk with someone about the opportunity. This is an excellent opportunity to make a solid first impression in person, which may lead to an on-the-spot employment interview.
Note: It is essential not to hide your status as a student while working or looking for jobs in Canada. Remember that your studies come first, and don’t be afraid to request the time off you require during exam periods or in preparation for a major deadline.
Students who work while studying have the same labor rights as all other workers in Canada, and you should be aware of your labor rights and the minimum wage in your jurisdiction. Make sure you get pay stubs and a good record of work so you can prepare your tax return.
Payment as You Study and Work in Canada
Many Canadian firms pay their employees via direct debit, which goes directly into their bank accounts. So, it is critical to have a bank account set up and the account information readily available so that your employer can pay you.
Cooperative Work Permit
While most international students do not require a separate work visa to work while studying in Canada, there is one major exception.
Some study programs require students to complete a co-op or internship work placement before graduating. In this case, international students must get co-op work permission in addition to their study permit.
To obtain a co-op work visa, you will need a valid study permit as well as a letter from your university or college verifying that all students in your program are required to complete work placements to graduate.
Conclusion
Working as an international student provides useful work experience and helps you augment your spending. Many work visa programs allow international students to study and work in Canada. Working in Canada might help you create business relationships and possibly immigrate after graduation.
