Important Tips on How to Work and Study in Canada
How to Work and Study in Canada
As an international student studying in Canada, you will be able to take full advantage of a variety of opportunities. One notable opportunity is the ability to gain important work experience while earning money during your time studying in Canada, which can be achievable through part-time student jobs.
While you must provide proof that you will be able to pay for your tuition and living costs before you arrive, there are a variety of ways in which foreign students may study and work in Canada at the same time.
Most international Canadian students are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week without a work visa. Working while studying helps you connect with new people and provides support for yourself, all while laying the groundwork for future success.
For a more in-depth guide and important tips on how to study and work in Canada, make sure to read until the end of this article.
Table of Contents
Applying for a Canadian Student Visa
You may apply for a Canadian study permit online or via paper application. This can be acquired through the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website or you can receive full support from any of our expert immigration consultants at CanadaCIS to fasten the process of your student visa application! Do take note that applications done on your own may usually take twice as long.
To get a Canadian student visa, you will need to complete the following steps:
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In order to apply for a student visa, you must have already decided on where you wish to study in Canada. An acceptance letter is needed when applying for a visa to study in Canada.
To find out whether you require a study visa or permission, you may check your eligibility with any one of our top-rated immigration experts.
The next step is to apply for a student visa, which is known locally as a study permit.
Canadian Student Visa Requirements:
- Admission letter from the university.
- Proof that you have no criminal record.
- Submit full medical exams if needed.
- Complete papers for your student visa application.
- Valid passport that also enables you to return to your native country.
- Two recently taken passport-size photos, together with your name and date of birth
- Proof of funds during your stay (tuition fees and living expenses). The need for proof of income in Canada is $10,000 to $11,000 CAD each year.
- Proof that you paid the study permit fee ($150 CAD)
- Proof of passing language test from any of the following Canadian language exams:
IELTS | TOEFL | PTE Academic | C1 Advanced
Visa Tip
Your Canadian study visa application may take 90 days to complete, but the process can be sped up through our services with the help of our immigration experts! Once accepted, your Canadian study permit may take 7 days to be delivered.
Top 5 Universities in Canada for Foreigners
1. University of Toronto, Toronto
International Students are attracted to the University of Toronto for the campus’s diversity, including more than 160 nationalities represented. If you wish to attend one of the largest and leading universities in Canada for international students, well known for its medicine, business, engineering, humanities, and education courses. Then your best option is U of T.
2. University of British Columbia, British Columbia
Ranked 2nd in the list of top 10 Canadian colleges and 34 worldwide, the institution achieved its ranking mainly due to its reputation in scholarship offers for foreign students.
The University of British Colombia has two campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna. International students choose UBC for its Students from overseas enjoy the refreshing environment in Greater Vancouver and closeness to the ocean and mountains.
3. McGill University, Montreal
McGill University placed third in Canada and 42nd worldwide, according to Times Higher Education. McGill offers 300 different courses to more than 31,000 students, from 150 countries. Overall, twenty-four percent of the student body is international. McGill is known for its exceptional English – Drama, and Theatre, International Development Studies, Political Science, Physics, Economics, Geography, Art, History, and communication courses.
4. McMaster University, Hamilton
This fourth-ranked Canadian university and 72nd internationally rated institution is situated In the city of Hamilton. Many foreign students choose McMaster because of its renowned medical school. Other popular courses for international students include engineering, business, humanities, social sciences, and science.
5. The University of Montreal, Montreal
The University of Montreal is ranked fifth among Canada’s best institutions and 85th globally. This school is located in the beautiful city of Montreal, with its main campus on the Mont Royal hills. Around 74% of students enroll in undergraduate study. At this institution, baseball, basketball, and hockey are popular (but not limited to). So if you’re interested in furthering your career in sports, this college is the best place for you.
How to Find Jobs in Canada for International Students
If you are eligible to work in Canada, you may be questioning how to find work. As a Canadian study permit holder, you may be permitted to work on or off-campus without obtaining a working visa. Although, there are some important criteria you will need to take note of before seeking employment. Which is why we’re here to provide you with 4 achievable steps to finding jobs in Canada as an international student:
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When applying for jobs, include a cover letter with your CV. A cover letter is usually an important addition to job applications. Your cover letter should be a chance to discuss your visa status and why you are the best qualified for the job.
Most wonderful part about searching for a job while you’re still in school is the networking possibilities that come with it. Attending all of the networking events in school is important. Everyone you meet outside of school should continue to network with you. Explain your objectives and background to individuals and they will have a better understanding of what kind of job you’re searching for.
The Internet offers many different career options across various industries, and it is the ideal location to begin your employment search. To explore employment opportunities in a specific city in Canada, people often use major employment sites, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, and SimplyHired.
People often begin their career by working on projects within their area of interest. It’s a good idea to check out a business whose internship and volunteer opportunities you can take advantage of. Employers are attracted to job candidates who have volunteer and internship experience.
Well-Paid Part-Time Jobs in Canada for Students
Canadians with study permits may work up to 20 hours per week. Let’s take note of the good news, there are many part-time jobs in the nation that can accommodate students with flexible schedules. The top 5 five best part-time jobs for international students in Canada include:
👩🏼💻 Freelancer
This job may be perfect for you if you like working from home and on your own schedule. As a freelance writer, web designer, copywriter, graphic designer, or translator, students in Canada have a wide range of opportunities available to them.
💰 Average Salary: $25 per hour
🍹 Bartender/Server
This job is for anybody who is interested in the service sector or who is seeking a career to do at night. When people need serving or bartending tasks done, it’s almost always done during weeknights or on the weekend.
💰 Average Salary: $11 per hour (tip not included)
🚗 Ride-Hailing Drivers
In Canada, part-time jobs for foreign students who are fond of driving and would want to see the country are becoming drivers. Because this work is so accessible and flexible, it’s perfect for students. With a driver’s license, a vehicle, and a phone, you have full control over your time. The amount you are paid as a ride-hailing driver depends on how frequently you drive.
💰 Average Salary: $14 to $25 per hour
📚 Tutor
This is the ideal part-time employment for someone with plenty of knowledge and expertise in a certain field and the patience to help others learn. You may focus on a certain specialty or market while working as a tutor. Teaching subjects, from grade school all the way up to university or college, is completely up to you.
💰 Average Salary: $15 to $20 per hour
👨🏫 Teaching Assistants
Many professors and instructors in Canada employ teaching assistants to help them with tutoring students, planning lessons, conducting class, and checking homework.
Luckily, this job does not need much experience. For some, expertise in the area is more important, while for others, the ability to work well in groups and to communicate clearly are key.
💰 Average Salary: $15 to $16 per hour
On-Campus Job Requirements
Foreign students may be allowed to work on campus without acquiring a work permit while finishing their studies provided they meet the following requirements:
- You have a valid study permit
- You are a full-time student at a post-secondary public school (college or university)
- You have a Social Insurance Number
Off-Campus Job Requirements
Foreign Students are able to work off-campus without acquiring a work permit while finishing their studies provided they meet the following requirements:
- You have a valid study permit
- You are a full-time student at a post-secondary public school (college or university)
- Your course is academic, vocational, or professional, lasts at least six months, and results in a degree, diploma, or certificate upon successful completion.
- Your workload should not exceed 20 hours per week while you are not in class, and it should be increased to only 40 hours per week during class breaks (for example, winter and summer holidays or spring break).
- Co-op and internship requirements may be a part of certain study programs. In this case, you will need a work permit to be able to work and study in Canada.
Commonly Asked Questions
Studying in Canada is one of the more inexpensive ways to learn abroad. Tuition may cost you between $20,000 and $30,000 CAD each year. An average range is used and will vary depending on your program and school.
You may be able to work in Canada while studying if the conditions of your study permit allow you to work on or off campus. Additionally, you must fulfill other requirements. Keep in mind that you are only allowed to work in Canada once you start your study program and not before you begin.
International students may work up to 20 hours per week while in school and 40 hours per week on vacation. The average salary students can make can range from $ 8 to $10 CAD per hour.
According to Statistics Canada, an average undergraduate degree currently costs $29,714 CAD per year, while a postgraduate program may cost up to$17,744 CAD per year. Each year, an MBA will cost about $27,397 CAD. Undergraduate programs like dentistry, medicine, and law will need you to pay a larger tuition price, while programs in social sciences, humanities, and education will be less expensive.
Additionally, you should factor in university application costs, which usually begin at $100 CAD and may reach $500 CAD. Although keep in mind that not all institutions charge them.
Canada has a well-established position among the world’s leading study destinations. The most popular Canadian provinces for international students are Ontario, British Columbia and Quebec, which between them are home to many of the top universities in Canada.
The Best Cities in Canada to Study and Work in Canada
1. Ottawa
A tiny city located in the province of Ontario in Canada is called Ottawa. The top choice for students is almost always a city due to its vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere, the cost of living, and the benefits that education provides. The majority of foreign students in Canada came up with the idea of Ottawa as the greatest city to study in Canada. This shows that the city provides a wide variety of options for international students.
Ottawa has a low crime rate. Over the last several years, there has been a little increase in crime.
When it comes to employment in Ottawa, the city often seeks foreigners. Due to this, more individuals choose to settle in Ottawa each year. As the population grows in the city, it is difficult to find employment for all of those individuals arriving each year. Although despite rising population levels, Ottawa’s employment rate has remained steady.
The fact that you can receive a good salary in Ottawa is one of the greatest things about living here. Among the cities in Canada, it has the highest income rate. Since you’re moving to the city, you can be certain to have the money to cover your living expenses after you find a job in Ottawa.
2. Quebec
Quebec is among the places where the French language is frequently spoken in Canada. Therefore, it will be difficult for only English-speaking students to adapt to life in Quebec. Only 1.5% of the population in Quebec speak English.
It is not an undesired city in Canada, but that doesn’t mean it’s the most desired one either. Travelers from across the globe choose Quebec City their favorite place to visit.
The city’s numerous festivals and festivities make it a popular destination for people. In the city, winter is celebrated with its ice castle and sculptures, particularly during the holiday season. Students may also enjoy skiing competitions.
According to records, Quebec is one of the safest cities in Canada. There is no political or racial violence in the city, therefore it is a safe place to live.
Quebec City is known for their low unemployment rates. From time to time, new possibilities are presented to the city. Students will be able to find employment and get the most value from Quebec.
Quebec’s unemployment was 4.9 percent in 2017. It has lately fallen to 3.9%, and continues to do so. So, you have no need to worry about finding employment in Quebec.
Great value education, at the lowest feasible price, is available in Quebec. Compared to other places, life in Quebec City is both cheap and comfortable. Quebec is much less expensive than any other city in Canada when it comes to living expenses, education prices, and in comparison to other Canadian cities.
3. Vancouver
The most expensive place in Canada is Vancouver, making international students believe it is unfriendly. However, surprisingly Vancouver has been ranked among the best cities for students in the world. The city includes plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and more. Many students in other countries look forward to these adventures while they are abroad, making the number of students who’ve applied to study in Vancouver on the rise.
Vancouver is a fairly safe city for students. The vast majority of those who reside in the city still stay alert. Despite the rarity of severe crime, students should still remain cautious of their surroundings. To be independent, one must take care of their own things and assume responsibilities.
It’s possible to find lots of employment opportunities for the Vancouver university students. Many workers who live in Vancouver think that working and having a personal life should be balanced. You won’t have to go to much trouble to study and work comfortably in Vancouver. You may even discover creative career alternatives that will enable you to further your career.
Vancouver is one of Canada’s most expensive cities. Despite that, its nature, possibilities, and excellent education outweigh its one shortcoming.
4. Montreal
Montreal is highly multicultural. This is mostly due to the huge number of excellent universities in the city. The education level is excellent and there are a number of well-known universities that make foreign students want to come. There are two distinct languages spoken in the city of Montreal. The main language is mostly used among residents of the city.
Don’t sweat, if you’re searching for a nice place to reside, Montreal should definitely be on your list. Among the 20 safest nations in the world, the city ranks number two. If safety is your top priority When it comes to safety, Montreal should be perfect for you.
Due to being the home of two different kinds of speakers in Montreal, it splits up job opportunities. It’s common for French speakers to have greater employment possibilities in Montreal. As for English speakers, there are available employment opportunities. However, the choices are few.
The City of Montreal is an excellent location for French-speaking international students, since it is one of the most affordable cities in Canada. In terms of overall value, this location boasts the lowest rentals in Canada.
5. Toronto
Another one of the expensive countries in Toronto. It is the capital of the city and contains 17 percent of foreign students. It is the 34th best city in the QS ratings. The city offers foreign students a good education and job opportunities.
The city is rated safe. There are no reports of crimes, only frauds and thievery.
In recent years, there has been a decrease in the rate of employment. Students who have graduated, on the other hand, are in high demand for employment.
Toronto is one of the most populated cities in Canada, with a population of over one million people. As a result, the cost of living and housing prices continue to rise. However, the average salary is high, which makes housing affordable for residents.
Advice for Students Interested in Working in Canada
As an international student, you might be interested in working while you study. If you wish to do so, we’ve provided you with great advice on what you should and should not do when it comes to working in Canada as a student. Read this list to help you with your job search and application.
Do's & Don'ts When Applying for Work in Canada
Do:
- Use strong words and action verbs in your application letter and resume.
- Be extremely precise when describing events or characteristics in Canada.
- Include references on your CV; this is particularly critical for foreigners.
- Always ask if you are unsure about the question.
- Provide examples to prove your accomplishments.
- Engage and ask questions in an interview.
Don't:
- Stand until you are invited to a Canadian application interview.
- State anything other than the truth on your resume, your future employer will always discover the truth.
- Make negative remarks about previous employers.
- Go over the top. Always maintain your composure and focus on the facts.
With that being said, we hope to have answered all your questions about studying and working in Canada!
Bear in mind that you are not alone; as Canadian educational immigration experts, we are prepared to assist you in resolving all your questions and guiding you through each stage of your immigration procedure for a faster and more convenient journey to Canada!
