International Students Welcome in Canada's Workforce

Studying in Canada opens the door to employment opportunities

In Canada, you can work on or off campus while you study, and even stay for up to three years after graduation to gain work experience in your field.

Sign up for cooperative education - Signing up for a co-operative education program is ideal if you wish to mix work and study. This program allows you to pursue a diploma or degree that includes paid work experience. You receive help to find placements in your field after you complete two semesters of study.

“My co-op placements gave me the chance to find out what type of work suits me best,” says Helen Hughes, an international student who earned a business diploma at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV). “It took longer to finish my diploma, but it worked really well. I found a career I enjoy, where I get to organize and host events.”

Work on campus - Getting a part-time job on-campus is a great introduction to the Canadian job market. On-campus jobs are flexible around your schedule and enable you to gain work experience, contacts, and references for future employment or graduate school.

Work off campus - After you’ve studied full-time for six months, you can search for an off-campus job, which can help you develop new skills and make connections.

Volunteer to work - UFV Volunteer to Work is perfect if you wish to build up your résumé, meet people, and develop your language skills. Volunteer opportunities are available with more than 50 organizations in a variety of fields.

Working after you graduate - After you graduate, you can apply for a post-graduation work permit to work in Canada for up to three years to gain marketable skills.

About UFV - UFV is an accredited public university that offers 15 bachelor’s degrees, two master’s degrees, and more than 100 certificate, diploma and post-degree programs.