Studying in Canada has its perks. In as much as studying in Canada will put you on the globe academically, you have a chance of doing that with ease as studying in Canada comes with flexibility in their schools.
They have a flexible timetable which can guarantee up to 20 working hours in a week. Also, students without a work permit can work inside their campus.
The number of international students in Canada continues to grow every year. Many of them are able to stay in Canada after finishing their studies. Approval of a Canadian study permit is always at the discretion of the visa officer.
Last year, Canada admitted more than 400,000 international students. The majority of those students came from France, Nigeria, China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, Brazil, Iran, India, and Vietnam.
The diversity of international students is a priority for the Canadian government. In 2019, it launched Building on Success, a new International Education Strategy (IES). The government has budgeted $147.9 million dollars towards this goal over the next five years.
Working while studying can help you support yourself and meet new people, all while building the connections and experience that could make you stand out in your job hunt later on.
What is a Work Permit?
A work permit is a document given to you to make you eligible to work in Canada without being harassed. Unfortunately, if you do not possess this document, you will not be allowed to work outside the school campus which will make it difficult for you as the chances of getting higher pay are when you work outside the school environment.
Eligibility
To be able to work at all whether off-campus or on campus, you have to be studying in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), also you have to be on a full-time course there.
How To Apply to DLIs
The basic steps in the application are as follows;
- Select a course
Your course of choice is one of the most important factors of your study permit application. You must present a strong case for studying in Canada in this particular course.
- Apply to the school
There are several ways to do so, either online or through an agent. This part will require you to fill in forms, write a letter convincing the school why the course is important to you and how it will help you in the future.
- Acceptance Letter
A letter sent by the school confirming your acceptance into your course of study.
- Proof of Financial Support
Proof that you have money to support yourself and any family members coming with you. You must show that you can cover your tuition fees as well as your cost of living (accommodation, food, etc.) for your first year in Canada.
- Identity documents
Birth certificate, marriage certificate, and passport.
It is important to note that even if you plan to work while studying in Canada, you will still need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources when you apply for a study permit. This means you have to show you have enough money to support yourself during your studies without working.
Anticipated future earnings will not suffice when demonstrating sufficient financial resources, so the fact that you may plan to be working while studying in Canada will not satisfy the condition to prove financial capacity before arrival.
Your study permit will state whether you are permitted to work in Canada and the conditions of employment. This statement enables you to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada; obtaining a SIN is a key requirement before you can begin working while studying in Canada.
You cannot work in Canada unless otherwise authorized to do so if your study program is less than six months in duration, or if you are enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) program. Additionally, visiting or exchange students at a DLI are not permitted to work while studying in Canada.
Getting A Job
Getting a job should not be all that hard as employers are always keen to employ students in various fields and pay them well. However, before seeking that desired job you are required to work on your CV and cover letter and get the best out of it to have a higher chance of securing a job for yourself.
Make sure your resume is up to date and formatted for the expectations of Canadian employers. Your cover letter is your chance to reveal your personality and achievements.
Write a tailored cover letter for each position, highlighting how you fit the precise criteria they’re looking for. If you’re applying online the cover letter can form your introductory email, to which you attach your resume as a PDF.
Locations To Search for a Job
There are several places you can start looking for jobs. Websites such as Indeed, Monster, and Craigslist have hundreds of postings for part-time employment. Your city or town may have its own portal for jobs, such as at recreation centers, libraries, or in administration.
You could also walk around your neighborhood and see if shops or restaurants are advertising in the window for employees. If you try this method, take paper copies of your resume with you, and wear smart clothes appropriate to business (for example a collared shirt, and avoid blue jeans), and know your availability.
If somewhere looks promising, feel free to ask to speak to someone about the position. This is a great opportunity to make a good first impression face-to-face and could turn into an on-the-spot job interview.
Many employers in Canada pay employees by direct debit, straight into your bank account. Consequently, it is important to have a bank account set up and have the details of your account available so that your employer can pay you.
Working while studying in Canada can be rewarding beyond the wage you earn. Graduating from a university or college in Canada with additional work experience could make you stand out from the crowd during your job hunt. Whether you’re aiming to stay in Canada or work elsewhere after graduation, Canadian work experience can be a valuable asset to your future goals.