How International Students Can Study and Work in Canada for Career Success?

EduXperience Associates Canada
Aug 29
3 min read

Updated: Sep 8

Studying and working in Canada is an incredible chance for international students, offering top-notch education and the potential to gain important work experience.

In this blog post, we will discuss how international students can study and work in Canada, boosting their career prospects and setting the groundwork for future achievements.

Gain Work Experience While Studying

One of the best aspects of studying in Canada is the possibility for international students to work while studying. With a valid Canadian Study Permit, students can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions. This flexibility allows students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study, which is a significant benefit when looking for jobs after graduation.

For example, a student studying business might find part-time work at a local marketing firm. Here, they could apply what they learn in class to real-world scenarios, such as managing social media campaigns or conducting market research. This not only helps cover living costs but also allows students to develop critical skills that many employers seek.

Furthermore, students can work full-time during scheduled breaks, like winter holidays or summer vacation. For instance, a student could work a full-time retail job during the summer months, potentially earning $2,500 to $4,000 depending on their hours and wage. This additional income can ease financial burdens and enhance their resumes.

Gain Work Experience After Graduation

Once students complete their studies in Canada, they can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows graduates to work in Canada for a duration of up to three years, depending on the length of their academic program. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to gain Canadian work experience, which many employers highly value.

For example, a graduate of a two-year diploma program could be eligible for the full three years of work under the PGWP. This time spent working can improve their chances of obtaining permanent residency in Canada.

In fact, nearly 60% of PGWP holders find work in their field during the validity of the permit, making them strong candidates for future positions.

The PGWP is also an open work permit, which means graduates can work for any employer and are free to change jobs or locations. This flexibility enables graduates to explore various industries and positions that align with their skills and career aspirations.

The Path to Canadian Permanent Residence

Studying and working in Canada can significantly benefit international students aiming for Canadian Permanent Residence. The experience they gain during their studies and the time spent working afterward can contribute to eligibility for several immigration programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).

Accruing work experience in Canada allows students to earn valuable points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), a points-based system used for immigration assessment. For instance, each year of skilled work experience can earn candidates up to 40 points, greatly enhancing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

Moreover, many provinces in Canada have immigration programs that specifically favor international graduates.

For example, British Columbia’s International Graduate category allows recent graduates from eligible institutions to apply for permanent residency more easily. This aspect of the immigration process can make it smoother for students from Canada to transition from temporary to permanent residency.

Need More Information?

If you are thinking about studying and working in Canada as an international student, gathering information is crucial for making informed choices. Understanding requirements for study permits, work permits, and immigration pathways will help you navigate the process better.

For tailored guidance and assistance, it might be beneficial to connect with experts in international education and immigration.

The EduXperience Associates Canada Team is available to guide you through your journey, providing insights and support to help you succeed.