How to Find a Rewarding Job as an International Student in Canada?

How to Find a Rewarding Job as an International Student in Canada?

Canada is a tempting study destination for many international students who wish to enrol in a university Bachelor’s or Master’s programme. 

If you are one of them and consider the option of studying abroad in Canada, you may also look for employment options during your degree programme.

This way, you will manage to support yourself financially and focus on your studies and also add a bonus to your CV. Working in Canada during your study will be an experience that will help you adapt to a new country faster while you receive a decent salary.

Still haven’t made up your mind what to study in Canada? Here are a few good options:

  • Master programmes in Environmental Sciences in Canada;
  • Master programmes in Psychology in Canada;
  • Master programmes in Computer Science in Canada;
  • Master programmes in Architecture in Canada;
  • Master programmes in Accounting in Canada;
  • Master programmes in Tourism in Canada.

As an international student, you will need to know the regulations and where to look in order to easily find a student job. 

Below, you will find information about the types of student jobs you can have in Canada throughout the year or during holidays, and where to look for them.

Student work options in Canada

After you begin your degree programme, you can work both on and off-campus. As an international student, you are allowed to work under the following conditions:

  • part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during semesters
  • full-time (40 hours/week) during holidays

You can also apply for an internship or you can add a special light to your CV by volunteering. 

These options can be easy to reach even for an international student, thanks to a large number of support programmes that the state of Canada has. The most widespread of them is the Youth Employment Strategy, which focuses on three streams: Skills Link, Career Focus and Canada Summer Jobs.

Who can get a summer or part-time job during their studies in Canada

In order to qualify for a job off-campus, you have to meet the following criteria:

  • You must be a full-time student with a valid study permit.
  • Hold a social insurance number (SIN)
  • You must be enrolled at a designated learning institution (DLI) at the post-secondary level or, if you are in Quebec, you must study in a vocational programme.
  • You must study an academic, vocational or professional training programme that finishes in a degree, a diploma or a certificate.
  • If you plan to work on-campus, you won’t be required a work permit or a social insurance number (SIN), and you can also exceed the 20 hours/week limit during semesters.
The steps for an efficient job hunt in Canada

Before you start searching for jobs, you should get a Social Insurance Number which will be required for work and to have access to the national programmes and other benefits. Also, there are certain jobs that require a minimum age which differs according to the provinces of Canada. Here are some useful links for some of them:

Besides writing your CV, cover letter and preparing for the interviews, you can check out the websites for career opportunities. There also is a “hidden job market”, based on recommendations so you are advised to develop your network and make connections with people that might help you. 

A few ways to expand your network are:

  • Joining a professional/student association or committee
  • Do volunteer work
  • Participate in information sessions, business meetings

You can also find lists with websites that include summer job offers for students in Canada.

Some of the most promising part-time jobs for students in Canada

Below you will find some of the jobs you can find as an international student and the salaries. There may be chances you will not find a job in your field of study, but maybe you will benefit from a well-paid opportunity.

  • Bookkeeper: 25 CAD/hour
  • Educational interpreter: 13 CAD/hour
  • Customer service assistant: 11 CAD/hour
  • Aquarium interpreter: 13 CAD/hour
  • Sales assistant: 12 CAD/hour
  • Cook: 13 CAD/hour
  • Office assistant: 13 – 15 CAD/hour
  • Human resources assistant: 13 CAD/hour
  • Life guard: 12 CAD/hour
Summer jobs for students in Canada
  • Painter: 13 CAD/hour
  • Festival coordinator: 10 CAD/hour
  • Camp counsellor: 12 CAD/hour
  • Programme facilitator: 13 CAD/hour
  • Recreation facilitator: 15 CAD/hour
  • Reading programme leader: 14 CAD/hour
  • Entertainment activities coordinator: 15 CAD/hour
  • Baker: 11 – 22 CAD/month
Top Canadian cities where to study and find work

Find out about main cities where you can study and find work and Canada. Decide if these destinations are worth by reading about places to visit, study options, living costs and more.

  • Study in Toronto;
  • Study in Vancouver;
  • Study in Montreal;
  • Study in Burnaby;
  • Study in Quebec;
  • Study in Ottawa.
Useful tips for students who wish to work in Canada

1. Be extremely specific when it comes to your experience, qualities, knowledge and skills in the job application form. Also, it is important to add references to your CV.

2. Choose your summer job very carefully, since it may determine the job you will have next year. Try to find jobs as close to your field of study as possible. 

3. During your employment, pay attention, make a good impression, and, if it’s the case, show interest for a future collaboration with your employer.

4. After graduation, you are eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit that allows you to work in Canada for up to three years. At the time of the application, you should have a valid study permit and apply within 90 days of the release of your final grades. 

Now that you know the details about employment in Canada for international students, you can enjoy your degree course without worries about the financial aspect!

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