Top Schools Offering Work Study Programs In Canada 2023

Schools Offering Work Study Programs In Canada: Are you looking for work study opportunities in Canada?

International students who want to study and work in Canada must first have a work visa, have a good command of English, and enroll in Canadian schools in the best province.

Work study programs are a great way for students who are in need of financial assistance to go through school without debts and yet gain knowledge and experience about their profession.

In Canada, some schools allow their students to work and study.

However, this educational advantage comes with a lot of rules and regulations, especially for international students.

It’s no longer news that Canada provides the best study abroad experience for international students which makes it one of the most applied study abroad destinations with over 

Most people refer to Canada as the “life of the party” when it comes to education.

There are more than 125 public and private universities, and over 3.000 Bachelor’s programs and an endless list of master’s and doctoral degree programs.

Currently there are 370,900 international students in Canada who not only study in Canada but also work in the city as a student employee.

Most international students leverage the work study program option to pay the high cost tuition of Canadian schools.

So in this guide, we show you how international students can study and work in Canada.

Also, we have highlighted the appropriate work visa that will allow you to work as a student.

Furthermore we have explained what the requirements are to work in Canada which includes having a good command of English.

And to help you make a better choice of school that will allow to work and study in Canada, we have also highlighted the best province and the schools within the region that you can apply to.

Ready?

Welcome Aboard Scholar!!!

What Is Work Study?

Work study is a program that allows students to get part-time jobs, work, and earn while studying.

Usually, it’s a federal government scheme although some states have adopted it whichever way, both parties aim at helping college students earn while studying.

With this approach, college and university students can gain experience in their desired field of work or study as well as earn to sponsor their educational ambition.

Usually, students who can work and study are paid hourly in a paycheck just like a normal job. 

Such programs exist in Canada. 

All you need to do is find out schools in Canada that allow their international students with a work visa to work and study.

See more about what the work-study program is in our article WHAT IS WORK-STUDY PROGRAM.

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Why Do Students Need A Work-Study Program?

As we have highlighted above, work-study programs are open to students who have financial constraints going through college.

Anyone is eligible to apply as long as you have a Canada student study work visa.

This option comes in handy when you have applied for scholarships, grants, or other forms of financial aid with no success.

With the work-study program, students in need of financial assistance can apply for work and earn and pay for their expenses without breaking the bank. 

What Is The Cost Of Living And Tuition in Canada?

Without mincing words, studying in Canada is expensive.

From tuition to living costs, nothing is really that cheap in Canada.

However, depending on factors such as the school, degree program, course of study, and location of your school, the cost can be more or less.

But on average, undergraduate degree tuition can range from $5,500 to $29,000 per year in Canada. 

And the average living cost in Canada sums up to about 13,800 and 46,000 CAD/year. 

This average covers expenses such as housing, public transport, food costs, books, and study needs.

Now you see why most international students in Canada seek scholarships, grants, or work and study programs.

How Can I Work And Study in Canada?

First things first you have to apply to low tuition universities in the state.

Then proceed to secure a part-time job that will allow you to study while you work in Canada. 

Another way to study almost at no expense in Canada is to secure a scholarship. 

There are different organizations and institutes that offer different types of scholarships to international students.

Source for them and apply.

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Do Schools In Canada Allow International Students To Work And Study? 

Yes, Canadian schools allow students to work and study.

The Canadian Government set up the best study infrastructure as well as employment opportunities for students.

International students in any Canadian public university, community college, or technical school are allowed to study for a degree and also work on the institution campus without any work permit.

What this means is that whether you have a study visa or not you can work in Canada as an international student.

However, without a work study visa, the jobs you get to do in Canada are limited. It must be located on the campus.

To work outside the campus you have to have an Off-Campus Work Permit.

In Canada, international students can work part-time during regular academic sessions for 20 hours a week and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as winter and summer holidays, and spring break.

However, there are work regulations that guide the possibility of work study programs for International Students in Canada.

What Are The Canadian Work Regulations for International Students Who Want to Work And Study in Canada?

First off, not everyone qualifies for work study programs.

And those who qualify must work within a set of rules if they are to enjoy the benefits work-study programs bring.

In Canada, there are special working rules for international students wishing to work during or after their studies. 

Here we have debunked what those rules are and the instances for which they apply.

Work Study Regulations in Canada For Working On-Campus

International students can only work on campus after the start of their studies.

Also, they can only work on campus if their study permit says they can work on-campus or off-campus. 

If your work study visa does not say so you can apply for a change free of charge.

If you don’t want to change that, it’s not a problem because literally you don’t need a work permit to work on campus but you have to meet the following requirements;

• Have a valid study permit
• Be a full-time secondary student
• Have a social security number (SIN)

Work Study Regulations in Canada For Working Off-Campus

Working off-campus is only possible for international students who have started their studies

And to work off-campus you must have a work permit and your employer ensures this before accepting the position. 

If you skip this rule you may be asked to leave the country!

It’s that serious.

If you don’t have a work permit that says you can work off-campus, here are some conditions you have to meet to override such rules;

• Have a valid study permit.
• Have a social security number.
• Be a full-time student at a recognized educational institution (DLI); If your university is not a DLI, you cannot work.
• Must be enrolled in a post-secondary university/specialist course or vocational training.

Keep in mind that you have more freedom during breaks – e.g. Winter or Summer Vacation .

You can choose to work full time, work overtime, or have 2 part-time jobs.

Work Study Regulations in Canada For Working After Graduation

For after graduation, you either apply for a work permit before your study permit expires or you apply for Postgraduate Work Permit (PTPD).

Here are the requirements for applying for a postgraduate work permit (PTPD):

• Must be a DLI graduate 
• Pay the registration fee of CAD 255.
• Must apply for the PGWP within 180 days (approx. 6 months) after completing your studies / receiving your grades or final grades
• Completed degree must last at least 8 months
• You can only apply for a PTPD once.

It takes approximately 53 days to issue the PGWP. 

Depending on the length of your academic program, the PGWP can be valid from 9 months to 3 years.

What Are The Requirements For International Students in Canada To Work And Study?

The requirements you will need to work in Canada as a student will depend on the type of job you get.

Here we have specified the requirements you need according to the jobs you are able to get;

Requirements For On-campus Jobs In Canada

You don’t need a work permit as an international student to work on campus.

But you must;

• Have a valid study permit.
• Have a Social Insurance Number.
• Be a full-time student at a post-secondary public school or a private college-level.

And as such, you can

• work in a library
• work in a hospital
• work in a research center
• Enroll as a teaching assistant

Requirements For Off-campus Jobs In Canada

You don’t need a work permit as an international student to work on campus.

But you must;

• Have a valid study permit;
• Be a full-time student in a designated learning institution.
• Be enrolled in a study program that is academic, vocational or professional.
• Be working up to a maximum of 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions, and full time during scheduled breaks.

Keep in mind that some study programs include work requirements such as co-op or internships

Such programs will require you to have a work permit if you’re a foreign student.

How to apply for a Canadian student visa

Canada has an online visa application process, which makes it one of the most convenient countries you can apply to.

A general overview of the Canadian student visa is that:

• You can apply either online or in-person;
• The general fee for international students is around 150 CAD;
• You may be required to submit your biometrics, which can amount to 83 CAD.

Also, the Holy Trinity of documents you will have to submit, in order to be accepted, is:

• An acceptance letter from a Canadian institution;
• Proof of identity (an ID card or your passport);
• Proof of financial support.

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Schools Offering Work-Study Programs In Canada 2023

Without further ado, here are some of the top-rated schools in Canada that allow their international students to work while studying their program of choice;

#1. University of Toronto

• Acceptance rate: 43%
• Total enrollment: 61,690 (2019)
• Location: 27 King’s College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
• Average Tuition Cost: Undergraduate tuition and fees: 6,590 CAD, International tuition 45,690 CAD.

The University of Toronto is a globally top-ranked public research university in Toronto, Ontario, Canada 

3,500 students in the University of Toronto leverages on the University’s work-study program each year.

The work study program in the University of Toronto is divided into two: Autumn and summer work study programs. 

With the University of Toronto work study permit students interested can only work within the campus.

The university has openings for paid on-campus positions.

Also, there opportunities for students to discover and develop their skills and how to begin a job search in Canada.

#2. McGill University

• Acceptance rate: 46.3% 
• Total enrollment: 39,736 
• Location: 845 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
• Average Tuition Cost:  Undergraduate tuition and fees: Local tuition 2,391 CAD, Domestic tuition 7,402 CAD, International tuition 29,200 CAD.

McGill University is an English-language public research university and one of Canada’s best-known institutions of higher learning.

Beyond Canada, McGill is also one of the leading universities in the world.

Its work-study program is top rated.

McGill international students who want to earn extra cash while developing their skills for their careers can leverage on the work study program.

Students can work in engineering, office, research, campus library work, and also jobs at McGill Hospital and related organizations.

However, before McGill offers you a work study permit, you must show that you’re receiving maximum government support.

You must also be a full time student, have a satisfactory academic degree and must be in financial need.

#3. University of British Columbia

• Acceptance rate: 52.4% 
• Total enrollment: 66,747 
• Location: Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
• Average Tuition Cost: Undergraduate tuition and fees: Domestic tuition 5,646.4 CAD, International tuition 38,946.2 CAD 

The University of British Columbia is a public research university with campuses near Vancouver and in Kelowna.

It is one of the Schools That Don’t Require MCAT Score in Canada for medical students.

Currently it ranks among the top three universities in Canada and it’s a global centre for research and teaching.

The University of British Columbia offers a great dual study program for students who want to work, gain experience and earn.

Within the University of British Columbia campus, students can find jobs such as administrative and professional activities. 

To qualify to study and work in the University of British Columbia Canada school, you must be enrolled full-time in the school.

And the rules at UBC says you are just to work one job and you must be living in Canada for the duration of your program.

#4. University of Alberta

• Acceptance Rate: 58%
• Total enrollment: 37,830 
• Location: 116 St & 85 Ave, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
• Average Tuition Cost: Undergraduate tuition and fees: 5,320.8 CAD, International tuition 20,395.2 CAD.

The University of Alberta is a public research university among the top 5 Canadian universities in Edmonton with approximately 40000 students.

Over the years, the University of Alberta is known to help international and local students find employment in Canada after graduation.

By doing so, they first approve international students to work and study in Canada.

There are also opportunities for international students to access a variety of internships in reputable companies.

#5. McMaster University

• Acceptance Rate: 58.7%
• Total Enrollment: 29,800
• Average Tuition Cost: Domestic Students 5,966.4 CAD, International tuition 22,471.2 CAD.

McMaster University is one of the well-known tier 1 universities of Canada. 

The University offers over 3000 courses across a range of disciplines.

Good thing that the high profile McMaster University supports work-study programs.

At McMaster University, students are able to work up to 10 hours per week in autumn/winter and up to 35 hours in summer.

However, know that freshmen and graduate students are not included in the work study program in McMaster. 

To qualify to enjoy this McMaster work study permit, you have to present a work permit with the application.

#6. University of Waterloo

• Acceptance Rate: 53%
• Total enrollment: 42,000 
• Location: 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
• Average Tuition Cost: Undergraduate tuition and fees: 11,061 CAD

The University of Waterloo is a public research university with three satellite campuses and four affiliated university colleges. 

At the University of Waterloo students have the opportunity to work and study part-time on campus. 

The work Study program at the University of Waterloo funds 75% of student salaries, up to a maximum of $2,000 per semester.

There is a restriction as to who is eligible for the University 9f Waterloo’s work study program.

Only Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, or Protected Individuals are eligible for the University of Waterloo work study program.

Also, they must be enrolled in a study load of at least 60% in the current study period and entitled to the state study assistance program while studying.

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Frequently Asked Questions About How To Work And Study in Canada

Which Course Allows You To Study And Work In Canada?

Studying and working is difficult.

Academic work is enough to weigh down. We do not recommend freshmen to work while studying.

And courses such as medicine have a lot of work load and as such it’s not ideal for medical students to work and study.

Here are some courses that will allow you to study and work in Canadian universities;

• MBA.
• Business & Finance.
• Media & Journalism.
• Computer Science & IT.
• Agricultural Science & Forestry.
• Biosciences, Medicine & Healthcare.
• Core Engineering & Engineering Management.
• Physical & Earth Sciences and Renewable Energy.

Do International Students Get Paid For Work Study Programs?

Yes, it’s called work because your services are paid for.

International students get paid for work study programs.

Bachelor students are paid per hour at least once a month. 

It’s your choice whether your employer pays you via a paycheck or have your payment deducted from your college bill. 

How Much Do Work Study Programs Pay Students?

The average hourly wage for jobs in Canada for students ranges from $15 to $25.

However this varies according to the type of job you do and the organisation where you work.

How Do I Increase My Chances Of Landing a Job in Canada?

Canada is tough when it comes to landing a job.

But these steps will help you increase your chances;

• Stay open-minded
• Network with like-minded people
• Involve in student associations and organisations
• Participate in volunteering programs and activities
• Join internships, seminars, competitions or workshops related to your interests.

Can I Get A Study And Work Visa in Canada?

Yes, you can get a work study visa in Canada as a student.

But literally you don’t need it because your study permit is enough to allow you work while you study.

To study in Canada, you will need to obtain a Canadian study permit, which serves as your student visa for the duration of your stay. 

A study permit costs CA$150 in Canada.

You will be eligible to work if your study permit includes a condition that says you can work on or off campus.

What Are The Best Provinces To Study And Work In Canada?

Canada is a good place to to work and study but not all provinces in Canada support that motion.

Here are the top provinces in Canada for work study programs;

• Ontario. 
• Quebec.
• Alberta. 
• British Columbia. 

How To Study English And Work In Canada?

Generally, the international ESL students who take standalone ESL courses are not allowed to work in Canada. 

So if your plan is to study English and work in Canada it’s not possible.

That can only work if you’re applying for a work permit

We hope we have been able to explain what your options are when applying to study and work in Canada.

Like we have stated, your student study visa permits it enough to let you work in Canada.

As a rule you must have a good command of English to work in Canada.

Lastly, to get the best out of your work time, ensure you apply to the best provinces we have listed that are ideal for work-study in Canada.

We wish you good luck!!!

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References

• Canadian universities with Great Work-Study Programs 2022
• Work and Study In Canada 2020-2021

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