Studying in Canada as an international student is a rewarding academic and cultural experience — but it can also be expensive. The good news? Canada allows most international students to work part-time while they study, helping to offset living costs and gain valuable experience.

Here’s a complete guide to understanding part-time work in Canada for international students — from eligibility to job search tips and money management.

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1. Understand the Work Requirements for International Students

Check Your Study Permit

Most full-time international students in Canada are allowed to work up to 24 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks.

📌 Before you start applying, check your study permit to confirm your work eligibility. Learn more from the IRCC official site.

Apply for a SIN (Social Insurance Number)

To work legally in Canada and get paid, you must apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN). This can be done online or in person at a Service Canada office.

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2. On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Jobs

On-Campus Jobs

• Work for your university: admin roles, library, campus store, research assistant, etc.
• No commute and easier scheduling with class hours
• Great for students in their first year or new to Canada

Off-Campus Jobs

• Work for local businesses: cafes, retail stores, tutoring centers, etc.
• Offers broader experience and may align with future career goals

Note: On-campus and off-campus work may have different eligibility rules, so always verify with your permit and your Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

Check if your school is a DLI

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3. How to Find a Part-Time Job in Canada

📄 Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

• Highlight any work, leadership, or volunteer experience from your home country
• Tailor your documents to Canadian resume standards
  Resume and job prep tips

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Use Your School’s Job Board

• Start with your university or college’s career portal or student job board
• Many schools list on-campus and vetted off-campus employers there
• Visit your school’s career center for personalized support

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🌐 Browse Online Job Portals

Some popular job sites for international students in Canada:

• Indeed.ca
• Job Bank (Government of Canada)
• TalentEgg – focused on students and recent grads
• LinkedIn Jobs

💡 Tip: Look for postings that say “open to international students” or don’t list citizenship/permanent residency as a requirement.

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4. Prepare for the Job Application Process

Getting hired is about more than just applying:

• Prepare for interviews — practice common questions
• Be ready to explain your class schedule and availability
• Follow up professionally after submitting applications

For in-depth advice, check your school’s career resources portal or attend job prep workshops.

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5. Balancing Work and Study

Getting a job is great, but managing both work and classes takes effort.

Manage Your Time

• Use planners or digital calendars to track shifts and classes
• Communicate your availability early with employers
• Prioritize academics — most employers are flexible with students

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6. Managing Your Finances

Open a Canadian Bank Account

This is essential for:

• Getting paid via direct deposit
• Avoiding international fees
• Tracking expenses in CAD

👉 TD Bank offers an International Student Banking Package with:

• No monthly fees
• Unlimited transactions
• 1,000+ branches and 4,000+ ATMs across Canada
• Multilingual advisors

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Create a Budget

Use tools like:

• Mint Canada
• Spendee
• A simple spreadsheet!

Budgeting helps you:

• Track monthly expenses
• Plan savings
• Avoid overspending on non-essentials

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Final Thoughts

Part-time work in Canada is a great way to grow personally and professionally while easing your financial burden. Start with your school’s job board, build a standout resume, and prepare for a balanced routine that supports both your career and academic goals.

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Helpful Resources

• StudySphere.io – Platform for international student services.