TLDR
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Working part-time during your studies in Canada provides international students with income, Canadian work experience, cultural integration as well as long-term career benefits.
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Ensure you know and meet the eligibility criteria for working in Canada before starting work.
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Build your resume, craft strong cover letters, and use job boards, campus resources, and networking for your job search.
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Make the most of your part-time work experience: include it on your resume for your post-graduation job search for future career success.
This article will help you understand work eligibility, how to find student job opportunities, and how to leverage your experiences effectively.
Benefits of working as a student in Canada
There are many advantages to working while studying in Canada. Part-time roles and co-op placements provide valuable soft skills like teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving, all while earning income to support your education. These experiences can be crucial for building long-term careers in Canada or elsewhere.
Income
Part-time jobs can help cover living expenses like rent, food, transportation, and academic materials, reducing financial pressure and reliance on family support.
Work experience
Adding Canadian work experience to your resume sets you apart in the job market and demonstrates your ability to adapt to local work culture. For those who plan to return home or move elsewhere, it showcases your ability to succeed in diverse settings.
Cultural integration
Working in Canada helps international students immerse themselves in the local professional environment, enhance cross-cultural communication, and gain confidence. This experience enriches your resume and provides insight into Canadian business norms.
Networking opportunities
Did you know that an estimated 75% of job opportunities in Canada are filled through recruiters’ networks? Connections you make during your student work experience whether they are with your manager, clients, or coworkers, all help build your network. It’s a good idea to stay on good terms with these people because when you are ready to graduate, they may be able to connect you to opportunities, or provide you with references during your job search.
Eligibility criteria
Before you start looking for a student job, make sure that you are legally allowed to work in Canada, and that you fully understand the rules you must follow. To work as an international student, you must have a valid study permit that indicates your eligibility for on- or off-campus work. You must also be enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution for at least six months in a post-secondary, academic, vocational, or professional program. In Quebec, certain secondary-level vocational programs also qualify.
On-campus work
Eligible students can work on-campus for their school, faculty members, student organizations, or on-campus contractors, with no hourly restrictions. This might involve positions as library assistants, research assistants, or staff in campus facilities. Note that you can only start working once your academic term begins and must stop when you are no longer studying full-time or when your study permit expires.
Off-campus work
As of November 2024, international students can work off-campus up to 24 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks. Choose jobs close to your campus or residence to make transitioning easier as you adjust to local transportation and work culture.
Internships and co-ops
Some programs require work placements. To qualify for a co-op or intern permit, you need:
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A valid study permit.
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A program-mandated work placement.
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A confirmation letter from your school.
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Work placements that are less than 50% of your program.
Job search strategies for student jobs in Canada
Build your resume and craft a winning cover letter
To stand out, tailor your resume and cover letter for each application. Highlight relevant skills and experiences to show why you’re the ideal candidate. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart, even if it’s not required. Keep it concise but informative, and seek assistance from your school’s career services to proofread and fine-tune your documents.
Tip: Be cautious of employment scams targeting newcomers. Legitimate employers will never ask for payment to secure a job or request personal banking information during the application process.
Leverage campus resources
Use your school’s career services and job portals for on-campus jobs, internships, and co-op opportunities. These resources are designed to support your career development. Career counsellors can review resumes, conduct mock interviews, and connect you with alumni in your field. Schools often host job fairs and networking events, providing direct access to employers seeking student talent.
Explore job boards
Platforms like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, CharityVillage, and the Canada Job Bank help filter job opportunities by location, role, and employer. LinkedIn is particularly useful for networking and finding jobs through your connections, while Glassdoor provides company insights and salary details. CharityVillage focuses on non-profit jobs, and the Canada Job Bank lists positions across various sectors. Set up job alerts to stay informed when new positions become available.
Network on campus
Your campus is a valuable place to meet potential mentors and peers who can aid your career. Attend job fairs, join clubs, and connect with professors. Many students overlook these opportunities, but they are key to building relationships that can lead to job recommendations and internships.
Use personal and professional networks
Many jobs come from referrals. Build relationships with classmates, friends, faculty, and community members for potential leads.
Leveraging student work for post-graduation success
Part-time roles can lead to full-time opportunities later on, as you’ve had a chance to demonstrate your skills in action, and you will likely be top of mind when a role becomes available. Maximize your student job by building strong relationships at work and requesting LinkedIn referrals to showcase your skills. Show initiative by volunteering for projects related to your career goals and document your achievements to create a solid portfolio.
Seek mentorship and guidance from colleagues and supervisors for growth opportunities. Participate in training to stay current with industry practices and maintain flexibility to demonstrate commitment and reliability.
Important advice for working students
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Obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN): This free nine-digit number is required for employment and can be obtained from Service Canada with your study permit and passport. Most applications are processed on the same day.
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Set up a bank account: You’ll need a Canadian bank account while studying and working in Canada. In addition to helping you manage your personal finances, having a local bank account allows for direct payroll deposits, giving you quicker access to your earnings. Explore RBC’s tailored banking option for international students to support your financial needs.
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File your taxes: As a working student, you need to file taxes with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Your employer will provide T4 slips, showing your income and tax contributions. Many schools offer free tax clinics to help international students during tax season (February to April).
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Stay current with immigration policies: Stay informed about changes to student work policies through official channels. Your international student office will share crucial updates with you if there are any policy changes.
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Remember, you are a student first: Balance your work schedule with academics, especially in your first year, to ensure success in both areas.
Ready to start your journey as an international student worker in Canada? Check out RBC’s international students’ offers for jobs or managing your finances and begin building your future today.
