Want to work while you study in Canada?

If you’re considering studying in Canada and want to explore the opportunities to work while you learn, you’ve come to the right place. In this section, we’ll provide you with valuable information on study permit work permissions and how they can enhance your Canadian education experience.

On-Campus Work

As an international student with a valid study permit that lists a condition allowing on-campus work, you’re eligible to work on your campus. Whether you are a full-time or part-time student, as long as your study permit allows on-campus work, you can work there. You must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work in Canada.

• Full-Time Enrollment: While studying part-time in your final semester to complete required coursework, you can still work an unlimited number of hours on campus.

• Unlimited Hours: How many hours you can work on campus depends on your study permit conditions. If you’re a full-time student and your study permit allows on-campus work, you can work as many hours as you want on campus.

Off-Campus Work

With a valid study permit, you can also work off-campus while studying in Canada. During regular school terms/semesters, you can work up to 20 hours per week. You can even work more than one job to make up these hours as long as you continue to meet the conditions of your study permit. If you’re on a scheduled break, such as winter and summer holidays, or a fall or spring reading week, you’re free to work full-time or work overtime. You can also work two part-time jobs that add up to a higher-than-usual number of hours.

• Full-Time During Breaks: If you were a full-time student both before and after the break, you can work full-time during scheduled breaks.

• Violations and Consequences: It’s essential to follow your study permit conditions. Working more than 20 hours per week during regular school terms is a violation of your study permit conditions. Such violations can result in losing your student status, potential disapproval of future study or work permits, and possibly having to leave the country.

Co-op work: Many Canadian programs include co-op work terms, which are paid work experiences related to your studies. These terms are typically included in your study permit.

How Co-op Work Terms Work

• Integration into Your Program: Co-op work terms are typically integrated into your academic program, with specific courses or requirements designed to prepare you for your work experience.
• Placement Assistance: Your university or college may provide assistance in finding co-op placements, matching you with suitable employers based on your academic background and interests.
• Supervision: While on a co-op work term, you will be supervised by a designated employer representative who will guide you and provide feedback on your performance.