Work and Study in Canada: The International Student Guide
Want to work while you’re in Canada? Here’s how.
Canada has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students, and for good reason. With world-class universities, a welcoming multicultural environment, and a clear path to work opportunities, it offers more than just an education. For international students, the chance to combine study with part-time work makes Canada an even smarter choice. Let’s explore the benefits, opportunities and requirements for international students who want to study and work in Canada.
Benefits of Studying and Working in Canada
Quality Education: Home to top-ranked universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia, Canada offers globally recognised degrees.
Work While You Study: With a Canadian student visa, you can legally work part-time during your studies, reducing financial pressure while gaining hands-on experience.
Post-Graduation Pathways: Programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) open doors to full-time jobs and permanent residency.
Multicultural Environment: Canada is one of the most immigrant-friendly countries in the world, with strong African communities across cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.
Affordable Living Compared to Other Destinations: Tuition and living costs in Canada are often more manageable than in the UK, the USA, or Australia.
Path to Permanent Residency: With systems such as the Express Entry and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), your time as a student can become a stepping-stone toward long-term settlement.
Work Opportunities for International Students
One of the major benefits of studying in Canada is the chance to gain practical work experience while you study. A valid Canadian study permit allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. Work opportunities fall into two categories:
On-campus jobs: These are roles within your university or college, such as working at the library, cafeteria, or research labs. They are usually more flexible and student-friendly.
Off-campus jobs: These are roles with businesses outside your institution. They allow you to explore Canada’s broader job market, from retail to tech internships.
This flexibility helps students cover living costs, gain Canadian work experience, and build professional networks that can support career growth after graduation.
Eligibility Requirements to Study and Work in Canada
Not every international student is automatically allowed to work, so it’s important to meet the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements. To qualify:
You must hold a valid Canadian study permit.
Your school must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) approved by the government.
You should be enrolled full-time in a program that is at least six months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Before you can start working, you’ll need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
In some cases (e.g., very short courses or English language programs), students may not be eligible to work. Always check your study permit conditions before applying for jobs.
Popular Part-Time Jobs for International Students
Canadian employers often hire students for roles that accommodate academic schedules. Some of the most common part-time jobs include:
Retail assistant: Working in shops, supermarkets, or malls.
Hospitality staff: Serving in cafés, restaurants, or fast-food outlets.
Tutoring/teaching assistant: Supporting other students, especially in mathematics, sciences, or language courses.
Customer service representative: Call centres and front-desk roles.
Campus roles: IT support, library staff, and event assistance.
These jobs usually pay between CAD $15–$20 per hour, depending on the province. While they may not always align with your long-term career, they provide financial support and practical experience that employers value.
Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
Finishing your studies in Canada doesn’t mean your journey has to end. The country provides pathways for graduates to gain further work experience and even transition into permanent residency.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): The most popular option. If you studied at a DLI, you may qualify for a work permit that lasts as long as your program (up to 3 years). This allows you to work for any employer in Canada.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): After gaining Canadian work experience through the PGWP, you can apply for permanent residency under the Express Entry system.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Certain provinces invite skilled graduates to stay and work in sectors with high demand.
These opportunities make studying in Canada a strong first step toward building a long-term career and life there.
Cost of Studying and Living in Canada
Understanding the cost of studying and living in Canada is essential for planning your study abroad journey. Here's a quick overview:
Expense | Average Annual Cost (CAD) |
Tuition Fees | 7,000 – 36,000 |
Living Costs (housing, food, transport, etc.) | 48,132 |
Health Insurance | 650 |
Books & Supplies | 500 – 3000 |
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Studying abroad is a big investment, but Canada provides financial support options to help ease the burden. Scholarships are available from both the government and universities.
For African students, options include:
Entrance scholarships: Awarded automatically when you apply, based on academic performance. Schools such as Seneca College and George Brown College offer these.
Merit-based scholarships: Competitive awards for students who excel academically or show leadership potential.
Government support: programs such as the Student Direct Stream (SDS) speed up visa processing for eligible students, while the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) supports families who save towards education.
While scholarships may not cover all costs, they can significantly reduce tuition fees and ease financial pressure. It’s advisable to start researching early and apply before deadlines.
Top Cities and Institutions for Study and Work
Canada’s cities offer unique opportunities for students. Here’s a look at the top institutions, according to the QS World University Rankings, and what makes each city special.
City | Top Institutions | Why Study Here? |
Economic hub, diverse job market | ||
Tech and innovation hub, scenic lifestyle | ||
Affordable cost of living, bilingual advantage | ||
Strong oil & gas industry, growing student community |
Tips for Balancing Work and Study in Canada
Balancing part-time work with academics can be challenging; however, with the right approach, it’s very achievable:
Set priorities: Your primary reason for being in Canada is education. Make sure your work hours don’t interfere with your studies.
Plan your time: Use calendars or scheduling apps to manage assignments, lectures, and work shifts effectively.
Use campus resources: Career centres often help students find jobs that fit their schedules.
Practice smart budgeting: Even with part-time income, avoid overspending and make use of student discounts.
Look after yourself: Prioritise rest and self-care so you don’t burn out by trying to do too much at once.
Managing your time well ensures you succeed academically while still gaining the financial and professional benefits of part-time work.
Final Thoughts
Studying and working in Canada offers more than just a degree; it’s a fresh start for global exposure. Ready to take the next step? Speak to an IDP counsellor today and start your journey to study and work in Canada.
FAQs
Is it possible to work and study in Canada?
Yes, international students with valid study permits can work part-time during studies and full-time during breaks.
How much can a student earn in Canada while studying?
Students earn between CAD $14–$19 per hour on average, depending on location and job type. Source: The Official Website of the Government of Canada.
How to study in Canada as a Nigerian?
Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), secure your study permit, and explore scholarships or financial aid options. IDP Nigeria can guide you through every step.
How much is the Canadian work and study visa?
A Canadian student visa costs approximately CAD $150, excluding biometrics and other fees. For a Canadian work permit, the application fee is about CAD $155.