Of course, a world-class education cannot be offered with just what we learn in the classrooms. It’s also about how ready we are for the real world. Canada, with an excellent system called “Co-Op”, offers us opportunities where you can work in an industry, related to your field of study. Co-op is an integral part of many programs at most universities and colleges in Canada. This system prepares students for the real world by introducing them to the working environment early and enables them to gain a business discipline.
The “Co-Op” system allows approximately 4 months of working per year or is structured in an alternating pattern, precisely, one semester or term of schooling is alternated with one semester or term of work in related sector. It gives you real-world, program-related work experience while pursuing your education. It also helps you decide what kind of job you might want, helps you pay for your education and increases chances of acquiring a good job (with a higher salary) as a graduate. So, if a student is enrolled in a 4-year Co-op program, they can gain 16 months of work experience in Canada during study. When they start looking for a permanent job after graduation, these students start life 1-0 ahead of other students. It’s an amazing way to explore careers, gain relevant experience, and make money while still earning your bachelors’ degree. In Canada, almost all post-secondary institutions offer a co-op option with their academic programs. In fact, you’ll have a co-op teacher who will facilitate your entry into a workplace, which is not usually available to most other students.
In addition to this program, students are allowed to work part-time for approximately 20 hours per week on or off campus during their semesters and full-time during the summer and winter breaks.. Depending on the duration of the program, they can also apply for a work permit up to 3 years after graduation. To work on-campus you would not require any additional work permit as your study permit is enough to help you find a job. However, to work off-campus you need to have a work permit.