Canada is a popular study destination for international students wanting high-quality education and diverse cultural experiences. Studying in Canada is undeniably thrilling, but managing your finances is not just important; it's a responsibility. With a recent update, international students in Canada can work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week when classes are in session.
If you have been wondering, “How many hours can I work as a student in Canada?” - read on to understand how you can work and study simultaneously in Canada.
Why Work While Studying in Canada?
Working while studying in Canada offers many benefits of which some are listed below:
1. Financial support:
Working part-time in Canada while studying can help you cover your living expenses, such as accommodation, food, transportation, and buying educational resources such as books.
2. Skill Development:
Working part-time can help enhance your soft skills, communication, and time-management abilities.
3. Networking:
Working part-time will help you grow your professional connections and gain Canadian working experience.
4. Post-Graduation Opportunities:
After your graduation, you may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation Canadian work permit.
Understanding Working Hours in Canada for Students
As an international student in Canada, you have options for working while you study. Here's a breakdown of the regulations and opportunities:
1. Working Off-Campus:
Off-campus jobs offer a wider range of opportunities to explore different fields and potentially discover new areas of your city. Popular options include tutoring, waiting tables, or working as an attendant.
Important Regulations:
Valid Study Permit: You'll need a study permit that allows off-campus work.
Full-Time Enrollment: You must be a full-time student.
Work Hours: During regular semesters, you can work a maximum of 24 hours per week. However, you can work full-time during scheduled breaks.
Program Duration: Your off-campus work authorization is tied to your study program. You'll need to stop working if your program ends or your study permit expires.
Leave and Breaks: Off-campus work isn't permitted while on leave from studies or transitioning between programs.
Social Insurance Number (SIN): While not mandatory, a SIN simplifies the application process for some jobs.
Co-op Programs: Earn While You Learn
Many Canadian universities and colleges offer co-op programs. These programs integrate work experience directly into your academic studies, allowing you to gain practical skills in your field.
Benefits of Co-op Programs:
Industry Experience: Gain valuable experience relevant to your area of study.
Enhanced Employability: Improve your resume and stand out to future employers.
Career Exploration: Discover your career interests and test them in real-world settings.
Exposure to Different Industries: Explore new industries with each co-op term (semester).
Canada's booming job market offers ample opportunities for international students. The government's online tool, Explore Careers, can help you find suitable jobs based on your skills, education, and desired career path.
Off-campus jobs and co-op programs provide income to manage your expenses, but they also offer cultural immersion, a chance to build new relationships and a valuable way to experience Canada beyond the classroom. Working and studying in Canada can be a rewarding experience, boosting your career prospects and broadening your global perspective.
2. Working On-Campus:
Working on campus offers a convenient and flexible way to balance your studies with part-time employment in Canada. Since your workplace is right there at school, you'll save time on commuting and can easily manage your schedule.
Benefits of On-Campus Jobs:
Flexibility: Balance your workload with your studies. Many on-campus jobs offer flexible hours that work around your class schedule.
Variety of Opportunities: Explore different fields! On-campus positions range from working in the cafeteria or library to assisting professors with research or teaching.
Building Your Resume: Gain valuable experience that can enhance your resume and prepare you for future careers.
Eligibility and Regulations:
Start Date: You can only start working on campus once your study program begins.
Valid Study Permit: You'll need a valid study permit that allows you to work on campus.
Work Duration: Your on-campus employment is tied to your study program. You'll need to stop working if your program ends or your study permit expires.
Leave and Breaks: On-campus work isn't permitted while on leave from studies or between programs.
Social Insurance Number (SIN): While not mandatory, having a SIN simplifies the application process for some on-campus jobs.
Employers: You might be employed by the university itself, a specific department, a professor, a student organization, or even a private contractor working on campus.
Work Hours: The IRCC does not set a limit on on-campus work hours. However, individual employers may have their own limitations.
Earnings:
The average pay for on-campus jobs is approximately CA$42,565 per year or CA$22 per hour* while working on campus. Ensure responsible budgeting to manage your expenses effectively.
3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
Once you graduate, a PGWP allows you to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
The length of the PGWP depends on your study program duration.
Completing your program at a designated learning institution in Canada makes you eligible for this bridge between student life and a professional career in Canada.
English Proficiency Tests for Studying and Working in Canada
Since Canada is an English-speaking country, you must demonstrate your proficiency in English by taking English proficiency tests such as IELTS. IELTS is the most recognised English language proficiency test by over 3.5 million institutions and organisations worldwide, and over 400 universities in Canada accept it.
Read more: Study, work or migrate to Canada with IELTS
Summary
International students in Canada can enhance their educational experience by understanding work permit regulations. Balancing part-time work with studies offers a multitude of benefits. Earning income helps cover living expenses and tuition fees, while the work itself provides valuable skill development that strengthens your resume. Building professional connections during these part-time jobs can open doors to future career opportunities.