International Students in Canada

Welcome to Canada! At Brock during the 2010-2011 school year, we had 1,265 international students on campus. That’s a lot! Can you imagine traveling to another country to go to school? Thousands of hungry young minds take the trip every year and many decide that Canada is the place to be.

Living and studying abroad can be very costly, which is why many international students decide to work during the school year. If you are considering working in Canada, there are a few things you need to remember depending on where you would like to work.

Campus jobs are the easiest to apply to as you do not need a work permit. Not only do you get to make some money, but working where you study can help in the transition to your new school, assisting in finding your way around and meeting new people.

If you are looking for work off campus, you must first receive an off campus work permit. To be eligible to apply, you must already have been in Canada for 6 months, be a full time student and in good academic standing. An off campus work permit allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during each semester and up to 40 hours during scheduled holidays such as Christmas and spring break. To apply for an off campus work permit, you can go to www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/work.asp and download the application, or apply online at the same address. If for any reason you discontinue your studies or are no longer in good academic standing, you MUST return your work permit. You don’t want to mess with Immigration Canada!

Finally, once all that is complete, make sure to stop into the Career Resource Centre to Canadian-ize your resume. This will give you a better chance of getting that all important first interview and showcase all of your wonderful international experience. Career Services is open to you for all of your work related questions! If you have any specific questions, ask the international experts over in International Services!

Rachel Mills