Internships and Jobs During Study in Canada

One of the many perks of studying in Canada is that you can earn while you learn. Canada provides several excellent jobs opportunities for international students, both on and off-campus. The pay is on par with the best in the world, and what's more, you can enjoy a healthy work/life balance, with enough time for work, study as well as proverbial playtime.

Job Prospects for Students in Canada

If you are planning to work while you study in Canada, then you need to be aware of the difference between a full-time job, which you obtain after completion of your course and working on a part-time basis to cover your expenses while you are studying.

If you want to work after completing your graduation, then you will need to apply for a work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, however, if you are planning to work while still studying for your course then you can do so on your study permit
There are various kinds of jobs available for students ranging from local restaurant helper to teaching assistant jobs. Some of the different job types, that can be taken up by students are detailed below.

Part-Time Jobs for Students Studying in Canada

As outlined above, students who are studying at universities in Canada have the option of supporting their day-to-day expenses by taking up a part-time job, while pursuing their courses, subject to certain conditions.

On-Campus Jobs

As a student on a study permit in Canada, You are permitted to work for various jobs on-campus at your university.
You will be able to work based on the eligibility conditions outlined for your university and course.
You will be able to work for up to 20 hours each week, when class is in session, and for full time during the vacation time.
For more clarity, a job is called "On-campus", only if it is taken upon any facility that is leased, owned, or rented by the university where you are studying.

Off-Campus Jobs

As a student in Canada you will need to have a valid off-campus work permit to be able to work off-campus.
You will need to be a full-time student at a publicly-funded or private university that is authorized to confer degrees by provincial statute.
Many opportunities for off-campus jobs can be found around your university location.
These jobs can be either related to your field of study and future career interests or something different. A case in the point is being taking up a job as a nurse assistant by a medical student vs. same student taking a job at a local restaurant.

Internships for Students Studying in Canada

One of the most important steps towards realizing your career goals is to take up an internship in a profession that is closely related to your course.

An internship can help you to experience the industry, in which you are pursuing your course, and gain much-required exposure to help you gain an insight into your future career prospects.
Some courses have internships embedded as a part of the course. For these courses internships are mandatory and students are awarded their degree, only after they have completed their internship course.
Internships are also subject to conditions and students should adhere to these conditions, while taking up internships.

Top FAQs Asked by Students Travelling to Canada

Yes, you can start your job as soon as your course commences. However, we recommend that you set aside at least three months, to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings and get comfortable before taking on the additional responsibility of a job.

Once you complete your degree course in Canada, you can apply for a post-graduate job, by obtaining an official letter from your educational institution, detailing your academic records, and providing confirmation of the completion of your course