Can you work part-time to pay your international student fees in Canada? | Study in Canada

Summary

In this video, a Nigerian YouTuber studying in Canada shares insights for international students planning to study there. The speaker addresses the question of whether it's feasible to work and pay for international student fees while studying in Canada. Topics covered include work permits, on-campus employment, co-op programs, and alternative ways to fund education, such as loans and scholarships. They also discuss the challenges of balancing work with living expenses in Canada, offering practical advice to help students navigate financial struggles and plan effectively before moving to the country.

Takeaways

• 😀 International students in Canada can work while studying to help fund their education.
• 😀 Study permits usually allow international students to work up to 20 hours per week off-campus, depending on when they applied for their permit.
• 😀 On-campus jobs offer the flexibility to work unlimited hours, helping students quickly earn money for their fees.
• 😀 Co-op programs, which alternate study and work periods, allow students to gain work experience and earn money while studying.
• 😀 Internships can also be a valuable way to gain experience and financial support during studies.
• 😀 Government scholarships and merit-based scholarships are available for international students and can help reduce the financial burden of tuition fees.
• 😀 Minimum wage in British Columbia (BC) is around $16-$17 per hour, but the high cost of living can make it challenging to fully cover tuition and living expenses.
• 😀 It's important for international students to research job opportunities, financial aid, and living costs before arriving in Canada.
• 😀 Relying solely on part-time work may not be enough to cover tuition and living expenses; additional funding sources like loans or scholarships may be necessary.
• 😀 Living with family or friends can help save money, particularly on rent, which is one of the largest monthly expenses for students.
• 😀 It's important to budget for all living costs (rent, utilities, phone bills, transportation, insurance) as they can add up quickly, even if a student is working part-time.

Q & A

Can international students work while studying in Canada?

Yes, international students in Canada can work while studying. Their study permit typically allows them to work up to 20 hours per week during the school term and full-time during breaks, depending on the conditions of their permit.

What is the minimum wage for international students in British Columbia?

The minimum wage in British Columbia (BC) is around $16.65 to $16.75 per hour, which is one of the highest minimum wages in Canada, though it is important to note that the cost of living is also high.

Can international students work more than 20 hours per week in Canada?

Yes, students who applied before October 2022 are allowed to work more than 20 hours per week, potentially even full-time hours. However, for those who applied after that, the limit is typically 20 hours during the term.

What are the benefits of working on-campus as an international student?

Working on-campus allows international students to work unlimited hours, making it easier to earn money to cover expenses. This is a great option, especially if they don’t have external sponsors for their studies.

What is a co-op program and how does it help international students?

A co-op program is an opportunity to alternate between study periods and work in the field of study. This allows students to gain work experience while earning money to help fund their education.

Can international students apply for government scholarships in Canada?

Yes, international students can apply for government scholarships, although availability depends on the province and the student’s academic performance. It's important to research available scholarships specific to the student’s area.

Are there loan opportunities available for international students in Canada?

Yes, international students can apply for loans, though they typically require a guarantor. It’s essential for students to explore loan opportunities available in the province where they will be studying.

What financial challenges do international students face in Canada?

International students in Canada often face financial challenges, such as high living costs, tuition fees, and other expenses like rent, insurance, and utilities. Even with part-time work, it can be difficult to cover all these costs.

How can living with family help international students financially?

Living with family members can significantly reduce expenses for international students, particularly rent. If they do not have to pay rent or pay a reduced amount, it helps free up more money for other expenses.

Is working 20 hours per week enough for international students to pay their tuition fees?

In most cases, working 20 hours per week is not enough to fully cover tuition fees. Depending on the wage and the student’s tuition costs, additional funding through loans, scholarships, or family support may be necessary.