A work-study program allows college students to earn money and gain experience through part-time, often on-campus jobs. Many of these programs are government-funded and needs-based. International students may be eligible depending on their study/work permit, financial situation, and college requirements.
To get the best careers in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, experience matters just as much as your degree. Part-time, school-approved work helps international students in college or university gain professional experience, understand the workplace culture, and strengthen their English skills.
One option international high school students often consider is a work study program offered through a college or university. In this article, we’ll explain what a work-study program is, who may be eligible, and how students can prepare for these opportunities while still in high school.
Can I Work and Study at the Same Time in Canada?
If you’re an international student attending high school in Canada, you can’t work until you are in college or university. Many post-secondary international students in Toronto and Vancouver take on part-time jobs to gain experience, improve their English skills, and get used to Canadian workplace culture.
While you’re in high school, taking University Pathway Programs or university prep courses can help you prepare for work in college. These programs:
- Focus on building the skills you need to ace your college experience
- Enhance your English and academic skills,
- Prepare you for work-study, co-op, or internship opportunities.
Already graduated high school but not university-ready? Students who’ve already completed secondary school in their home countries can still build the skills required with ILAC’s University Preparation Year. Our courses prepare you for university-level coursework and earn Canadian credits, so you’re ready for every aspect of university, including work-study programs. |
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How Work Study Programs Work
Work study programs offer employment opportunities for students with financial needs. These jobs are often part-time, on-campus work positions arranged through the college or university.
Duties typically support the school community, including assisting in offices, libraries, laboratories, and academic departments. For example, at the University of Ottawa, work-study positions include:
- Student ambassador
- Student mentor
- Research assistant
- Assistant editor
- Assistant fundraising officer
- Theatre costume assistant
Work Study vs Co-Op Program
A co-op (cooperative education) program integrates paid full-time work with your classroom learning, often in alternating semesters. Unlike work-study programs, co-op placements are directly related to your field of study and count toward your degree.
Both programs can be used to build your resume, but in vastly different ways.
| Feature | Work Study Program | Co-Op Program |
| Purpose | Help students with financial needs earn money | Give students real-world work experience |
| Who manages it | College or university | College or university, with employers |
| Work location | Usually on campus (job may or may not be relevant to the field of study) | Often off campus with a company/role relevant to the field of study |
| Schedule | Part-time during the academic term | Full-time during a co-op work term |
| Length | Ongoing during semesters | Fixed work terms (several months) |
| Job Requirements | Varies by position and school | Often requires a related academic background or program enrollment |
| Pay | Hourly wage | Hourly wage or salary |
| Academic credit | Usually no credit | Often counts toward the degree |
| Best for | Students with financial needs who want flexible work during classes | Students who want deeper career experience |
Note: Each institution has its own unique application process, deadline, and eligibility requirements. If you’re applying for a work-study program in college, consult your Personal Pathway Program advisor or guidance counsellor to discuss your options.
Are International Students Eligible for Work-Study Programs?
Yes! International students can be eligible for work-study programs, but rules vary. Eligibility requirements depend on the school or program.
Some programs, such as the one at Western University, are specifically designed for international students. Most are needs-based financial aid, though, so if you’ve already shown you can cover your study costs (required for your study permit), you might not qualify right away.
However, you can gain experience through off-campus part-time jobs, co-op placements, or internships in college or university, even if you’re not eligible for work-study. These job duties help you build skills and gain firsthand experience in Canadian workplace culture while improving your English.
Eligibility is one thing, qualification is another. You can only access work-study programs once you get into your dream college or university. ILAC International High School offers students career guidance and university application support. Our counsellors guide you in choosing programs, preparing applications, and understanding admission requirements. We help you get ready for your dream school and the opportunities that come with it. |
What Do I Need to Do to Get a Work Study?
As an international high school student, you can’t apply for work-study just yet, but you can start preparing early to be ready for college (and your future career!). Here’s how to get a head start:
- Take university preparatory courses in high school to build your academic skills. Work study programs often require students to have and maintain good grades, so start building your study skills early.
- Strengthen reading, writing, and communication skills. As a work-study student, you’ll be expected to interact with peers and professors, so clear communication is a must.
- Check application deadlines for colleges you’re interested in. Not only do colleges have deadlines for enrollment, but they often have strict deadlines for scholarship and work-study programs, too. Keep track to stay on track!
- Develop good study habits and time management. As a work-study student, you’ll need to balance work and classes; practice now, and it’ll get easier faster. Not sure how to start? Ask your high school advisor for tips!
- Get involved in school projects, student activities, or volunteering. International high schools like ILAC offer experiences and activities that help you adapt to Canadian culture and develop responsibility, workplace skills more effectively.
- Research colleges and their work-study programs. Each school may have different resources and requirements depending on students’ backgrounds or where they come from.
In Summary
- Work study programs provide post-secondary students registered in Canadian colleges and universities with part-time work opportunities. These are often government-funded and needs-based.
- International high school students are not allowed to work. However, colleges and universities in Canada offer plenty of opportunities to gain experience and earn money while studying.
- Work-study jobs often support the school community, while co-op programs provide off-campus, career-focused experience.
- International high school students can prepare by taking University Pathway Programs or university preparatory courses, which strengthen English, academic skills, and study habits.
- Planning early, with guidance from ILAC International High School advisors, helps students prepare for work-study, co-op, and internship opportunities in college.
Are You Work-Study Ready?
Your dream college work study program rewards students who show up prepared. Don’t leave it to chance!
At ILAC International High School, we help students build the skills and confidence they need to get into their dream college, university, and career. We offer personalized study plans, dedicated university and career guidance, and direct pathways to the top institutions in Canada and the USA.
All the support, guidance, and pathways you need are right here. Apply today!