Study and work in Canada: Everything you need to know

Canada By Janaina Da Costa December 13, 2022

A lot of international students want to study and work in Canada. After all, Canada is the second largest country in the world by land area. It is a country that has a first-world infrastructure, beautiful landscapes, and a great quality of life. In addition, it is one of the safest in the world and has incredible cultural diversity.

There are several options of cities to make your interchange program such as the cosmopolitan Toronto and Vancouver, the European Montreal, and the interior and modern Calgary. Definitely, opportunities for all tastes!

But if you are wondering if it is possible to study and work in Canada simultaneously, we have the answer for you! Keep reading and learn everything you need to know for your exchange trip.

Is it possible to study and work in Canada?

Yes, it is possible to study and work in Canada! Canada is one of the countries that hire foreigners globally, with about 3% of its GDP coming from activities carried out by students from other countries.

In many Canadian provinces, more than half of the population is immigrants, creating an environment of multiculturalism and ethnic diversity.

There are two ways to study and work in Canada during an exchange:

  • Taking a program from which, the student will receive a permit to work. The program can be an undergraduate or academic extension (MBA, postgraduate, master’s, or doctorate);
  • Conducting a CO-OP exchange in which the student will undertake a technical course (also known as a vocational course) and, upon completion, will undertake a paid internship.

Both exchange models are excellent options to study in Canada, however, only with the CO-OP will the student arrive in the country with guaranteed work.

Requirements for study and work in Canada

In order for a student to be able to study and work in Canada, they must first meet some prerequisites. As institutions are self-regulated, it should be noted that requirements may vary slightly from institution to institution. The most common are the following:

  • English level: from intermediate to advanced, according to the requirements of the intended course. The proof is made through exams, such as the IELTS;
  • School level: proof of high school diploma. Some cases require a high school diploma and transcript;
  • Student visa: required for courses lasting more than six months;
  • Health insurance: before embarking on your dream of studying in Canada, don’t forget to take out health insurance. This is because in this country foreign students are not entitled to free medical care;
  • Study permit: in this case, the study or tourist visa to enter the country should not be confused with the study permit. In fact, it is a document issued by the Canadian authorities that allow foreigners to study at educational institutions in the country.

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