Why Networking Is So Important

Scene: Two people are vying for the same job. One applies using a browser-based portal to submit their resume. The other is referred to it by someone who already works there. Who would you believe gets the interview? You got it — whoever has the connection wins almost all of the time.

In Canada 70% of all jobs are never posted. This “hidden job market” only becomes available to you when you know the right people. Networking allows you to gain access to these opportunities long before anyone else has an idea that they even exist.

But networking isn’t just to find jobs. It is about connecting with people who can:

• Share insider info about companies with you
• Educate you on alternate careers
• Share advice when you struggle
• Introduce you to other nice people
• Nourish your career for years to come

Begin by Laying a Foundation: Have Something in Place First

There are basics to get in order before you reach out. Consider this as gearing up for a big game — you wouldn’t arrive to play without the necessary equipment.

Polish Your Online Presence

Your LinkedIn profile is your digital business card. Here’s what it needs:

Profile Photo: A strong, smiling headshot. No vacation snaps or group shots. Simply dress as you would for a job interview.

Headline: Don’t just write your job title. Make it interesting. Instead of “Student,” perhaps, “Marketing Student | Passionate About Digital Strategy | Seeking Summer Internship Opportunities”?

About section: Describe your 3-4 paragraphs brief history. Who are you? What do you care about? What type of work are you most excited about? Write as if you are talking to a friend, not in an essay for school.

Work experience: Include your jobs, volunteer work and school projects. For each one, tell us what you did in reality, and what you achieved. Numbers help! You can say “Managed social media accounts” which is fine, but you should instead boast about the fact that you: Grew Instagram following by 300% in 6 months.

Create Your Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a 30-second introduction in which you tell people your name and what it is that you are looking for. You’ll be using it all the time when you’re networking.

Here’s a simple formula:

• Your name and current situation
• Your background or skills
• What you’re looking for
• Why you’re interested

Example: “Hi, I’m Sarah. I’ve just recently graduated from UBC with a computer science degree. I’m really interested in cybersecurity, and I want to find entry-level roles where I can help companies shore up data. I am a person who likes to solve puzzles, and so security work is attractive to me.”

Practice your pitch until it comes out naturally, not recited.

Where to Network in Canada

Now that you’re ready, it’s time to get out there and meet some people. Canada has a lot to offer in the way of networking—you just need to know where to look.

Professional Associations and Industry Groups

You will find an association for almost every profession in Canada. These organizations run events, mentorship programs and share job listings with their members.

And lots offer student memberships, often at a reduced cost. Join ones in your field and attend, don’t simply pay the fee and ignore them.

Networking Events and Meetups

Give the following three places a try to uncover networking events in your city:

Eventbrite: Look for “networking” or your industry and the name of your city. You’ll find everything from informal coffee chats to formal conferences.

Meetup.com: Good source for discovering regular monthly groups. Find professional groups — not just social ones.

LinkedIn Events: Organizations and groups list their events here. You can also check who else is going and make contact before the event.

Industry Conferences: These can be pricey, but a lot of them offer volunteer options. You work during the event (checking people in, assisting with set up) and receive free admission to all of the networking sessions.

Coffee Chats: The Canadian Way

In Canada, it’s the “coffee chat” that reigns supreme. This is where you ask someone to give you 20-30 minutes of their time to get to know about their path and advice. It’s less official than an interview and less uncomfortable than asking someone for a job.

Here’s how to set one up:

Find people to connect with: You can find folks who work in your target field or at a company of interest using LinkedIn. School alums are GOLD—alumni tend to go out of their way to support students who have walked the same campus.

Send a courtesy note: Brief and concise is the way to go. Bad example: “Can you help me get a job?” Good example: “Hello, Mark – I’m a recent grad who is intrigued by the idea of project management. I noticed you’ve been a PM at Shopify for 3 years. Could you spare 20 minutes for a coffee chat? I would be very interested to hear about your transition into tech project management.”

Make it easy for them: Offer a couple of times you’re free, or inquire when suits them. Propose a meeting at or near their office, if possible, or do a video call.

Be prepared: Research the individual in advance. Prepare 5-7 questions. Concentrate on the learning, not in asking for a job straight-up.

Follow up correctly: Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. If they said anything particular (a book suggestion or someone else to talk to for example) refer back to it.

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Online Networking That Works

Not all networking happens face-to-face. Indeed, some of the strongest relationships do begin online in Canada’s far-spread cities and remote places.

Master LinkedIn Like a Pro

LinkedIn is the #1 professional networking site in Canada. Here’s how it can be used to useful effect:

Interact with content every day: Take 15 minutes a day to like, comment on and share posts from those within your industry. The idea is, that when you comment on posts (for real, not just “Great post!”), you get noticed.

Share your own content: Write once or twice a week about what you’re learning, articles that were interesting to you or projects you’re working on. You don’t need to be an expert — you only have to demonstrate that you are engaged and learning.

Become Member of LinkedIn Groups: Look for groups that belong to your industry or in your location. There are groups called “Toronto Young Professionals” and “Vancouver Tech Community.” Join discussions and reply to questions when you can.

Be careful with the “Open to Work” feature: This alerts recruiters you’re on the job hunt. But if you have a job and don’t want your employer to see that you’re seeking something new, you can make it visible only to recruiters — not everyone.

Strategically connect: Every time you send a connection request, include a personal note. “I’d like to add you to my professional network” is just lazy. Instead: “Hi Jennifer, great piece you wrote on sustainable architecture in Canadian cities. I’m a Ryerson architecture student and would love to connect.”

Virtual Networking Events

COVID-19 has brought virtual networking to the mainstream in Canada. And don’t miss these (just because they’re online).

Benefits of virtual events:

• You can attend events anywhere in Canada and not incur any travel costs
• It’s not as daunting as stepping into a roomful of strangers
• You can leave notes open on your screen
• Helps avoid those “what do I do with my hands” moments

How to succeed at virtual events:

• Turn your camera on
• Use a clean, well-lit background
• Make sure your LinkedIn profile is prepared to share in the chat
• Breakout rooms are where it’s at
• Follow up—It’s really easy to put all of these people in the back of your mind but for those people that it was meant to be, you’ll definitely want to reach out! Follow everyone you met and talked with on LinkedIn within 2 days.

Twitter and Other Platforms

But as important as LinkedIn is, so are other social networks:

Twitter: Lots of Canadian professionals and companies are hanging out here. Connect with others in your industry, respond to their tweets and share great content. Use hashtags such as #CdnJobs, #TorontoTech or those specific to your industry.

Reddit: Many Canadian city subreddits (such as r/Toronto or r/Vancouver) feature career advice threads and job postings. Subreddits for particular industries may also be useful.

Instagram: Instagram is big in some industries (fashion, design, food and entertainment). Create a professional account and showcase your work.

Finding a Job: Where to Look for Openings

Now that you’re constructing your network, what about actually finding job openings?

Online Job Boards

Begin with these Canadian job sites:

Pro tip: Create email alerts for your search terms. Apply for a job within 24-48 hours of it posting — after that, there are too many applications for employers to get through.

Government Job Resources

The Canadian Government offers free tools for job searching. The following are some of the free tools offered by the Canadian government:

Job Bank (jobbank.gc.ca): Canada’s official job board. It is totally free and has posts from jobs all over the country. You can also find labor market information related to various careers.

Youth Employment Services: If you’re under 30, see if your province has youth employment programs. They frequently provide job databases, employment counseling and wage subsidies for employers who hire you.

Newcomer Services: If you’re an immigrant, agencies like ACCES Employment or MOSAIC in Vancouver provide job search help tailored for newcomers. For more information about settlement services across Canada, visit the official government resources.

Company Websites Directly

Don’t overlook this strategy. Get a list of 20–30 companies you’d love to work at. Check their career pages weekly. A lot of companies post to their own sites before anywhere else.

Bonus strategy: Follow these companies on LinkedIn and enable notifications. You’ll know when they post jobs, share a piece of content or when members of your network work there.

Recruitment Agencies

Recruiters can be a valuable resource, particularly in some industries such as IT, healthcare, engineering and finance. They work for the employer, not you, but a good agent wants to place you because that is how they make money.

Tips for working with recruiters:

• Be polite and professional — they’re assessing you from day one
• Be realistic about your abilities and experience
• You will want to inquire about company and position in advance of the interview
• Develop relations with not one but many recruiters, just ensure that they know of each other to avoid confusion
• Check in regularly, but not annoyingly (once a week is good)

Using Informational Interviews to Their Full Potential

We’ve brought up coffee chats earlier but they’re so crucial let’s give them a section of their own. Informational interviews are one of the most effective networking techniques.

Questions to Ask

Write questions that indicate real interest:

About their career path:

• How did you end up in this field?
• What is a typical day in your life like?
• What do you find most rewarding about your job?
• What do people find harder than they think?

About skills and qualifications:

• Which of your skills have been most helpful in your career?
• If you started out today, what would be the first thing that you’d want to learn?
• Are there any certificates or courses of which you are a fan?

About the industry:

• How is the field evolving in Canada?
• What are some trends that new entrants to this field should know about?
• What companies are doing interesting work in this space in Canada?

About opportunities:

• How do people enter this field for the most part?
• Are there any alternative routes into this job?
• Who else do you think I should talk to?

That last one is key — it also leads to more connections.

What Not to Do

Don’t:

• Ask directly for a job (they will offer to help if they can)
• Exceed the time by more than agreed without inquiring if you are still needed
• Neglect to pick up even a basic amount of background information about them
• Fail to send a thank-you note
• Ghost them after they assist you

Networking for Newcomers to Canada

If you’ve recently moved to Canada, networking may seem especially intimidating. The good news? Canadians are nice people and a lot of official places help newcomers.

Settlement and Newcomer Services

In every province there are free services for immigrants and newcomers. These organizations offer:

• Job search workshops
• Resume help (examples of Canadian resumes also included!)
• Networking events for newcomers
• Mentoring you with established professionals
• Language support if you don’t speak English or French as a first language

Look into ACCES Employment, Skills for Change or TRIEC in Ontario. In BC, research MOSAIC, ISSofBC or DIVERSEcity. Every province has similar organizations.

Credential Recognition and Bridging Programs

You may need to have your credentials recognized in Canada if they come from abroad. This can be facilitated by professional bodies.

Bridging programs open the doors to Canadian workplaces for internationally educated professionals. They often include:

• Canadian workplace culture training
• Technical skills updating
• Internships or practicum placements
• Networking opportunities

Leverage Your Cultural Background

Your time abroad is an asset, not a handicap. Indeed, many Canadian companies are global and require talent who understand other cultures and markets. Emphasize this in your networking dialogue.

Networking as an Introvert

Feel like networking is only for the super gregarious? Think again. Some of the best networkers are actually introverts who utilize their strengths.

Introvert-Friendly Strategies

Direct conversations: Forget big networking events, and concentrate on having coffee chats. You’re likely stronger in meaningful conversation than chitchat, anyway.

Online networking: Make thoughtful comments and send LinkedIn messages to connect with others. You can pause before you speak up.

Quality, not quantity: Rather than trying to connect with 100 people, work on fostering 10 real relationships.

Preparation: Study up on the people you meet. Come with specific questions. Having a plan reduces anxiety.

Follow up in writing: Email good follow-up notes (which are more about recognizing an insight or idea than just an acknowledgment of a meeting). This is often where introverts excel.

Be a volunteer at events: This way you have an excuse to talk to everyone without feeling self conscious for the sake of small talk.

Bring a buddy: Attend events with a colleague or classmate. You can meet each other’s new friends.

Student and Recent Graduate Strategies

If you’re in school or recently graduated, you have special networking powers.

Campus Resources

These are the great things about your school:

Career Services: Students generally don’t take enough advantage of these. Career centers provide networking events, employer information sessions and access to alumni databases.

Professor Office Hours: Your professors know people in industry. Ask them about their research, career trajectory and who they know in industry.

Alumni Networks: Schools have lists of grads who want to help current students. Use them! Alums tend to be loyal to their school and desire to assist.

Student Organizations: Participate in business clubs related to your major. They frequently invite speakers and host company visits.

Co-op and Internship Programs: They aren’t just about the experience of working itself — they’re networking gold. Each supervisor or co-worker could be a future reference or resource.

Student Discounts and Programs

Take advantage of:

• Free or reduced price student membership in professional organizations
• Student registration rates for conferences and workshops
• LinkedIn Premium for Students, free for one year
• Professional clubs for students to join

Follow-Up: The Most Crucial Step

This is where most people fail at networking. They run into someone, have a great conversation — and then never follow up. Don’t be that person.

The 24-Hour Rule

Twenty-four hours after you meet someone, or have a coffee chat with them, send them a follow-up email.

What to include:

• Thank them for their time
• Reference part of your conversation
• If they said they’d help with something, thank them
• If they mentioned a resource or connection, make a note to follow up: “I’m definitely going to take your suggestion and look into it!”
• Keep it brief—3-4 sentences maximum

Example:

“Hi David,

Thank you very much for speaking with me yesterday about your career in environmental consulting. Your suggestion to get certified as a GIS professional was really helpful, I will look into the classes at BCIT that you mentioned.

I will for sure contact Maria Santos as you suggested. Thanks again for your generosity!

Best, Jamie”

Stay in Touch

A good network is not about meeting as many people as you can and collecting business cards, but rather, staying connected with some of those people over time.

Check in: Reach out to key people every 3 to 6 months. Share an article they might enjoy, congratulate them on a new job or say hello.

Add value: Networking is an exchange. If you happen to see a job posting that you think would be of interest, send it. If you come across something related to their work, send it.

Update them on your progress: When something good happens (you landed a job, earned a certification, completed a project), share it with your network. People who have helped you want to know that their advice was effective.

Common Networking Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common errors:

Being too transactional: People are not a job vending machine! Build genuine relationships.

Networking only when you want something: Begin networking before you need a job, not when you’re desperate in your job search.

Making the conversation about you: Ask questions and listen. Networking is for listening, not talking.

Failing to do your homework: Investigate people and companies before you contact them. Generic messages get ignored.

Neglecting to say thank you: Always show appreciation when someone lends a hand.

Quitting too soon: Networking is not overnight. Not after one event, or one coffee chat.

Ignoring your current network: Your friends, family, former co-workers and classmates are your initial network. Explain to them what you need.

Measuring Your Networking Success

How do you know your networking is working? Track these things:

• Monthly new connections made
• Coffee chats or informational interviews done
• Events attended
• LinkedIn profile views
• Messages received from your network
• Referrals or introductions you’ve gotten
• Job news via contacts

Don’t expect immediate results. Networking is planting seeds — it’s a long time before everything blooms.

Building Your Personal Brand

As you network, you’ll begin to be associated with a set of traits. This is your personal brand. You want to be famous in a good way.

Decide on your specific focus: What is it you want to be known for? Problem-solving? Creativity? Technical expertise? Leadership? You just need to choose two or three qualities and ensure that your online life, as well as the conversation about you, reflect this.

Be consistent: What you describe on LinkedIn, Twitter and in person should match. Don’t be a different person on one platform than you are somewhere else.

Share knowledge: Learn something that you didn’t know yesterday? Post on LinkedIn or answer questions in one of your online groups, or present at a meeting of your student club.

Be dependable: If you say that you are going to do something, do it. Not doing so makes you look bad.

The Long Game: Lifetime Networking

The best networkers think long-term. They are developing relationships that will last their entire careers.

Help others: As you become experienced, help other people who are in the place you used to be. Mentor students, respond to questions online, make introductions.

Stay curious: Ask people about their work, even when you’re not on the job hunt. When you learn about different careers, you become more interesting and more knowledgeable.

Be real: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. In the end, being real is a more effective networking technique than any other.

Show up: It’s consistency, not intensity that is key. It’s better to go once a month to one networking event for years than 10 in one month followed by nothing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many networking events should I go to in a month?

Quality beats quantity. For most people, going to 1-2 events and having 2-3 coffee chats per month is more than enough. For those even more active in the job market you may want to bump this up to 3-4 events per month. Don’t forget, you’ll also want time to check back in with everyone you’re meeting.

What if I don’t know anybody in my profession?

Everyone starts somewhere. Start with your school’s alumni network, get involved in industry-specific professional organizations and attend industry-specific events. Search LinkedIn for people and ask them for informational interviews. It will take a few months of consistent effort, and then you’ll start meeting people.

Do I have to connect with everyone I meet?

Connect with people you’ve actually spoken to in the flesh, or online. Stop mass connecting to strangers. Whenever you add a connection, include a personalized note (keeping in mind where you met).

How do I network if I live in a small town in Canada?

Virtual networking is your friend. Participate in online events, join national professional organizations and network on LinkedIn. You can also occasionally travel to bigger cities for large industry conferences. With remote work now more widely accepted by employers, your proximity matters less than it did in the past.

Can I ask someone I just met for a job referral?

No. Build the relationship first. After a few conversations over several months, if they offhandedly say that there’s a role available at their company that you’re interested in, then you might ask whether they’d be open to referring you. Let relationships develop naturally.

What do I do if someone does not reply to my networking message?

Don’t take it personally. People are busy. If you don’t get a response within a week, it would be appropriate to send one polite follow-up. If still no response, move on. Spend your energy on people who do respond.

How do I network if I have social anxiety?

Begin by having more intimate, one-on-one coffee chats rather than full-blown events. Leverage online networking sites – you can draft a more careful response. See a counselor to help you develop strategies. And stay mindful: Lots of successful networkers experience anxiety — you can too.

Do I want to network with my competition?

Absolutely! Colleagues in your field are potential collaborators, not just competitors. They know what you’re up against, might hear about job openings you don’t and who knows? — they could be your next colleague someday. The world of work is smaller than you thought.

Your Action Plan: Start Today

Networking can be daunting, but you don’t have to try everything at once. Here’s a basic plan to get you started this week:

Day 1–2: Update your LinkedIn profile. Upload a professional photo, include a strong headline and fill the experience section with your achievements.

Day 3-4: Join a professional association or LinkedIn group in your field. Find one upcoming networking event and register for it.

Day 5: List out 10 people who you would like to have coffee chats with. These might be alums, employees of businesses you respect or professionals in positions you’re interested in.

Day 6: Send 5 connection requests to some people on your list with personalized messages.

Day 7: Post one post on LinkedIn about something you are learning or working on. Comment with care on three posts from people in your network.

Show up to that networking event next week you signed up for. Ask for a coffee chat from someone you asked to connect with. Build from there.

Final Thoughts

Networking in Canada is not about collecting business cards or trying to meet people at fancy events. It’s about making sincere connections with others who have the potential to help you professionally — and can be helped by you, too.

The job market is tough, but networking gives you an edge. When everyone else is blindly applying to jobs online, you’ll hear about possibilities in advance, gain insight into companies and have advocates who can vouch for your abilities.

Start small. Be genuine. Follow up consistently. Help others when you can. With time, you’ll establish a powerful professional network that gives access and opportunity throughout your career.

The best time to begin networking was yesterday. The next best is today. Choose one thing discussed in this article, and make it happen today. You’ll thank yourself in the future.

The thing is, every successful professional in Canada was once exactly where you are now – with no connections, and no clue about how to even start. They got there one small step at a time. You can too. Good luck!

In this piece, we will let the students who’ve lived it tell you about it. These are true stories of real people who packed everything they owned into a single suitcase and travelled halfway around the world in search of Canadian freedom. Their reflections also will provide a candid peak behind the curtain of student life — from those heady first days out on their own, to spending late nights at the library eager to be home and struggling with homesickness.

Maria’s Journey From Mexico City to Montreal

A Love for Winter

Maria Rodriguez never thought she would fall in love with winter. She had never seen snow growing up in the balmy Mexico City, not until she came to Montreal for her computer science degree at McGill University.

“I got off the plane in January wearing 3 jackets and I was still cold,” Maria jokes. “I thought I was nuts, but my roommate from Vancouver said she’d never felt minus-20-degrees before.”

The First Month Was Tough

Maria’s first few weeks were much more challenging than she had anticipated. The language challenge was tough — though she had studied English for years.

“The professors were speaking so fast in class. Everyone spoke slang that I didn’t know. I would study for hours to get through readings that Canadians got done in 30 minutes,” she explains.

Money was another stress. While Maria had scrimped and saved, she hadn’t realized how pricey everything was going to be.

“Back home, I could eat out for $3. In Montreal a modest meal cost $15. My student budget ran out more quickly than I imagined it would. I had to learn how to make food, which I’d never done before,” she says.

Finding Her People Changed Everything

It was with the Latin American Student Association that things began to look up. There she found people who knew exactly what she was experiencing.

“We would have potlucks where everyone brought the food of their home. For a few hours, I didn’t feel as far away from my family. These friends were my Canadian family!” Maria adds.

She also found there were a lot of Canadian students out to make friends around the world. Her study group “took her in” and explained confusing lectures and invited her to their weekend activities.

“Canadians are genuinely friendly. The second I started speaking, and not being so afraid to mess up with my English, people were so supportive,” she says.

Three Years Later

Since today Maria is a senior. She has a summer internship at a tech company in Toronto and is fluent in English. She even gave her Canadian friends a lesson in how to make real tacos.

“Would I do it again? Absolutely. The first year was rough, really rough. But working my way through that just made me stronger. I’m not the same shy girl that came three years ago,” Maria writes.

Reality Check Toronto: Raj Realizes His Dreams Vs the Reality in Toronto

Raj Patel came to Toronto with hopes as high as an elephant’s eye. The 19-year-old, from Mumbai, had selected the University of Toronto for its business program and Canada’s record as a welcoming destination for immigrants.

“I thought it would be how things are in movies and that I’d make friends straight away, get a part time job with no issues, the perfect student life,” Raj admits. “Reality hit me pretty fast.”

The Job Hunt Struggle

It was far more challenging than Raj had expected to find part-time work. It had been extremely frustrating, despite his work permit permitting 20 hours per week when school was in session, to get that first job.

“In the first two months, I applied to over 40 positions. Coffee shops, restaurants, retail: I did it all. Most places asked for Canadian experience, and it felt like mission impossible when nobody would give me that first opportunity,” he says.

It took Raj three months of looking to find a job at a campus library; he eventually found work there. During that time, he was going through his savings more quickly than planned.

The Hidden Costs

Raj said he wished someone had told him about all the expenses beyond tuition and rent.

“Well, I had heard about big costs. But what about winter clothes? A proper coat costs $200-300. Boots, gloves, scarves — it starts to add up. Then there’s the phone plan, internet, $100 textbooks — for each one! — transit pass and a million other little things,” he ticks off.

For future students, he also made a thorough breakdown of his actual monthly expenses:

“And this is living frugally,” Raj points out. “I do all my own cooking, I don’t go out very much, I have a tiny room with another roommate. Comfortable living costs way more.”

The Support He Was Waiting For

When he felt overwhelmed by stress, Raj found his university’s international student services. They assisted him in establishing a realistic budget, introduced him to a mentor, and provided free counseling when he missed his home.

“I didn’t want to reach out for help at first. Big mistake. They do these services for a reason. The counselor assisted me in processing my feelings of anxiety about money and school. The mentor, who was also from India, offered me practical advice on everything from taxes and dealing with tough professors,” Raj said.

Yuki’s Odyssey: Self Discovery in Vancouver

Yuki Tanaka, of Osaka, chose the University of British Columbia in part because Vancouver evoked her home: a modern city cradled by nature and ocean. But she found differences she hadn’t anticipated.

Culture Shock in Small Ways

“Japanese culture is very indirect. We are taught not to raise our voices, not to openly disagree, that we should read between the lines,” Yuki says. “In my classes in Canada, professors wanted a debate. They encouraged students to question ideas, including their own. It was so uncomfortable in the beginning.”

In group projects, Yuki found Canadian students would bluntly say things like “I don’t agree” or “that won’t work.” In her native culture, it seemed rude to be so direct.

“I had to learn how to communicate all over again. What to me felt aggressive; it was just regular Canadian conversation. Once I realized it wasn’t personal, I was a better participant,” she adds.

Making Real Connections

It took Yuki some time to break out of her cultural shell; she initially surrounded herself with other Japanese students, speaking in Japanese and dining at Japanese restaurants. She felt secure, but she also knew that it wasn’t her Canada.

“My breakthrough happened when my RA took us on a camping trip. I’d never been camping! In Japan, we have very different ways of doing things. But I went, and it was amazing,” Yuki said.

That trip forged friendships that have lasted with students from Canada, Brazil and Nigeria. They explored Vancouver’s hiking trails, beaches and food scene together.

“My friend group is so different now. We observe each other’s holidays, teach each other words in our languages and share our cultures. This is what the study abroad experience should be,” she says with a radiant smile.

Growing Beyond Her Comfort Zone

Yuki joined the university’s dance team, which she said she never would’ve done at home. She also began a blog to record what she was going through — and the phenomenon wound up going viral in Japan.

“Studying in Canada showed me that I’m more brave than I thought. I can adapt. I can try new things. I gained confidence I never knew I had,” she reflects.

Ahmed’s Balancing Act: Faith and Fitting In

Ahmed Hassan of Egypt chose a small college in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He was a practicing Muslim, and concerned about where he would fit in a small Canadian city.

Locating Prayer Spaces and Halal Food

“My initial concern was just logistical — where would I be able to pray? Where would I get halal food?” Ahmed shares. “I was pleasantly surprised.”

His college had a multifaith room; Halifax’s Muslim community welcomed him from the start. The local mosque was his second home, introducing him to families who welcomed him for Friday dinners.

Locating halal food took some creativity. “Halifax isn’t Toronto or Vancouver. Only two halal restaurants existed. But the Muslim Students Association planned group cooking meetings. We would cook these big meals together and freeze stuff, just take care of each other,” he says.

Ramadan Away from Home

Ahmed found his first Ramadan in Canada a challenging experience. He fasted during full days of classes, breaking his fast alone in his dorm room.

“Ramadan at home is this magical time. My whole family gathers. The streets are decorated. Here, life just carried on as usual. None of the people around me even had any idea I was fasting,” he remembers.

But his second Ramadan was another matter. There were the communal iftars (meals to break the fast) put on by the Muslim Students Association. His non-Muslim classmates inquired, learned about his faith and joined them for dinner.

“One of my very close friends, who’s Christian, came to one of our iftars with a dessert that her grandmother made. Those moments of people respecting and celebrating your differences — that’s the Canada I love,” Ahmed says.

Dealing with Stereotypes

Not everything went perfectly, Ahmed won’t pretend. He was asked embarrassing questions and subjected to a few incidents of discrimination.

“Someone asked me if I had a camel at home one time. People would occasionally be extra cautious around me at airports. Some thought I was being oppressed and in need of ‘saving,'” he said, appearing frustrated.

But Ahmed emphasized education over anger. “I attempted to view it as ignorance, not malice. I’d tell my story, my beliefs, my culture. Most were genuinely curious and respectful when we spoke.”

The Common Links: What Every Student Went Through

Even though they were from different countries and studying in different cities, these students described strikingly similar experiences.

Everyone Felt Homesick

“I cried every night for two weeks,” Maria says. Raj, Yuki and Ahmed all nod — they’ve all been in this boat.

Holidays were especially hard. Missing Diwali, Día de los Muertos, New Year’s celebrations at home with family — or an Eid surrounded by relatives — made them wonder if they had made the right choice to study abroad.

The First Winter Was Brutal

Even Yuki, who hailed from northern Japan, found Canadian winters difficult. “It’s not just the cold — it’s the darkness. The sun goes down at 4 PM in December in Vancouver. That had more of an impact on my emotional state than I realized,” she says.

All four students stressed investing in quality winter gear as key, if not obvious, advice. “Do not be cheap when it comes to winter clothing. You’ll be miserable,” Raj advises.

Support Systems Made the Difference

Every successful student found their people — among student organizations, religious communities, sports teams and study groups. Isolation was the enemy; connection was the cure.

Financial Stress Was Real

Even with scholarships or family help, students felt pressure around money. Canada is expensive and unexpected costs come up all the time. Learning to budget, cook and live frugally was essential.

They Grew Beyond Their Goals

The most frequent theme may have been personal growth. Each student said they’d become more independent, confident and adaptable. They learned to navigate unknown systems, to communicate across cultures and to solve problems for themselves.

“My parents still think of me as their little girl, but I’ve done things that they can’t fathom — arranging bank accounts in a foreign country, negotiating with landlords and standing up for myself with professors. I’m so much stronger now,” Maria says, reflecting.

The Practical Lessons They Learned

Through trial and error, these students learned how to make international student life work. Here’s their hard-won wisdom:

Before You Arrive

Do Your Research on the City: Don’t just research the school — research the city, too. What’s the cost of living? What’s the climate? Is there a community from your country? What’s public transit like?

Budget For More Than You Think: Calculate your budget, then add 30%. You’re going to need a bit extra for those unknown expenses, especially in your first few months.

Contact Current Students: Reach out to international students from your country. They will offer you the straight talk that admissions offices won’t.

Your First Months

Leverage University Support Services: International student offices provide support on everything from understanding your visa to making friends. Don’t be too proud to utilize those resources.

Join at Least One Club or Group: This is your method for meeting people and building that support network. Select something that you like and can attend regularly.

Learn to Cook Basic Meals: Eating out is budget-killing. Try to master 5-10 easy cheap meals you can make in bulk. Your wallet, and your health, will thank you.

Long-Term Success

Build Relationships with Professors: Don’t miss office hours. Ask questions. These connections can result in research opportunities, powerful letters of recommendation, and invaluable mentorship.

Stay Connected to Home: Set up time every week for video calls with family and friends. Don’t distance yourself from your support system back home.

Record Your Progress: Photograph, journal or blog about your experiences. You’ll cherish these memories, and your experiences can benefit future international students.

The Reality About Canadian Friendliness

All four students described Canada as being friendly, but they also added nuance to this stereotype.

“Canadians are polite, yes. They’ll open doors, apologize constantly and be polite in passing. But that surface friendliness does not necessarily translate into deep friendships,” says Raj.

Making authentic friends required work—and time. Canadian students most likely had made their friends during high school. Becoming part of those circles took determination.

“Canadians are friendly, but can be difficult to connect with deeply,” Yuki says. “It’s not that they’re unfriendly — they’ve just gotten comfortable with friends they already have. You have to show up consistently, you have to integrate into their life.”

Friendships, however, were irreversible, once formed. “My Canadian friends have been incredibly loyal and supportive. They’ve invited me to their family homes for holidays, helped me move apartments, and been there through tough times,” Ahmed recalls.

When Things Go Wrong: Real Problems and Solutions

Not everything was perfect — these students faced real challenges and want you to be ready for them.

Academic Struggles

Yuki almost failed her first midterm. “The teaching style was so different. I was used to memorizing facts. Here, they wanted critical thinking and original ideas. I had to completely change how I studied.”

She sought help from her university’s academic success center, where workshops on study skills, time management, and exam strategies were available.

Housing Nightmares

Raj’s first rental was a nightmare: his landlord did not fix anything, and tried to hold on to part of his deposit illegally.

“I didn’t know my rights as a tenant. I let him take advantage of me because I was scared and didn’t want trouble.”

After that, Raj familiarized himself with tenant rights and learned about legal aid available at his university.

Health Crises

In her second year, Maria got serious health problems. “I had to navigate the Canadian healthcare system, which is free but confusing. I didn’t know where to go or how it works. Plus, I was afraid to miss classes and fail.”

Her university health services helped her and arranged academic consideration.

Mental Health Challenges

Ahmed suffered from depression for the first time in his life during his first Canadian winter. “The darkness, the cold, missing home – it all hit me. I felt lonely even though I was never alone.”

Free counseling through his college’s mental health services helped a great deal. “They understood the unique challenges of being an international student. I wasn’t just a typical student dealing with depression — my therapist understood that on top of everything else, I was adjusting to living in a foreign culture and country.”

What They Plan to Do After Graduation

Now preparing to graduate, the four students each have different plans — but all feel that their Canadian education was worth the effort.

Maria’s Tech Career

Maria applied for and was offered a full-time job with her internship company. She’s seeking permanent residency in Canada.

“I arrived for an education, but I discovered a home. I’d like to make my career here. Perhaps some day I will go back to Mexico but right now, Canada is where I want to be,” she says.

Raj’s Return Home

Raj, unlike Maria, will return to India after studying overseas. But he considers his Canadian degree a huge asset.

“The education I received here, the experiences I had, the network that I built – that’s what is going to make me successful back home. I am not the same person who left Mumbai. I’m going to come back with skills that will differentiate me,” he explains.

Yuki’s Global Mindset

Yuki isn’t yet sure where she will wind up. She is weighing job options in Japan, Canada and abroad.

“Studying abroad opened so many doors to different opportunities. I’m not confined to one country anymore. Now I’m a global citizen, and I’ll go where the best opportunities are,” she says confidently.

Ahmed’s Community Focus

Ahmed wants to stay in Canada and find work in his field while continuing to be involved with Halifax’s Muslim community.

“This city welcomed me. The community supported me. I want to be able to give back and especially help future international students feel like they have a home the way I eventually did,” he says.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

Perhaps you may now wonder, reading these experiences: Is studying in Canada as an international student really worth all the hassle, hardship and cost?

“Yes, yes, yes!” all four students reply in unison.

“The struggles made me who I am today,” Maria says. “If those challenges didn’t happen, then I wouldn’t have grown. I wouldn’t be as capable, self-assured or persistent.”

Raj puts it plainly: “It was tough. There were times I felt like giving up and going back home. But my degree, and the experiences I’ve had earning that degree, and the growth it has brought me personally — those are investments in my future that will pay dividends for the rest of my life.”

Both Yuki and Ahmed stress that studying abroad is about more than academics. “I learned lessons in school, but my life education came outside of it,” Yuki reflects. “I learned about the world, different people, and myself.”

But they all warn that international study is not for everyone. “You have to be mentally ready,” Ahmed cautions. “If you’re not prepared to confront loneliness, financial hardships, academic challenges and culture shock all at once, it might not be the best option. But once you get through the difficult period, the rewards are fantastic.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money do I actually need as an international student in Canada?

From our students’ experience, have a minimum budget of $15,000-20,000 CAD per year besides the tuition. This includes rent, food, transportation, phone, entertainment and emergencies. Larger cities such as Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive — around $20,000-25,000 per year. In smaller cities, you might live on $12,000-15,000. Always plan to need more than you have budgeted.

Can I work part-time during my course?

Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during breaks. But it takes time to get that first job. Begin applying early, be persistent, and be flexible about the type of work you’re willing to do initially. On-campus work is typically more accessible for international students. Learn more about international student work permits in Canada.

How can I deal with homesickness?

Everyone gets homesick – that’s okay. Set regular video calls with family (but not so often that it prevents you from fully connecting to your new life). Get involved in student groups to find a support network for yourself. Keep busy with classes, work and activities. Utilize your college counseling resources if you have severe homesickness. Remember, it does get easier with time.

Are Canadians really that friendly to international students?

Canadians are polite, welcoming people but building deep friendships takes effort. Instant best friends aren’t realistic anywhere. It takes time to get to know people. Join clubs, go to events, be open-minded when it comes to meeting people and be patient. Most international students eventually make good friends, but it may not happen until a semester or two.

What if I get sick or need medical attention?

All international students are required to have health insurance – it is a component of your study permit. Some provinces (such as Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and Newfoundland) include international students in their provincial health plans. In others, you need to purchase private insurance through your university. Figure out your health coverage before you arrive, and keep your insurance information with you at all times.

Can I bring my family along?

If you plan to bring a spouse or dependent children for your stay, they also will need their own visas. Your spouse could be eligible for an open work permit, and your children could go to school. But it’s much more expensive to provide for a family in Canada than to be on your own. Make sure you can afford the cost and expense before bringing family members.

What if I fail or my grades drop?

Failing or getting low grades may impact your study permit if you are no longer a full-time student or are not progressing according to the standards of your program. If you are struggling academically, talk to your academic advisor and get tutoring help. Nearly every college has systems in place to assist students in getting back on track before grades become a serious issue.

Is it better to live on campus or off campus?

Most students would advise living on campus your first year, especially in dorms with other first-year students. You make friends more easily, you’re near everything and you don’t have to worry about furniture or utilities. Living off campus will normally be cheaper after your first year, but you’ll have to navigate other responsibilities like finding roommates and dealing with landlords.

How do I make friends as an international student?

Participate in clubs and organizations – it’s the best way to meet like-minded people. Attend orientation events. Study with classmates. Be open and friendly. Don’t only hang out with people from your home country (though it’s fine to have a few friends who share your native language). Say yes to invitations, even if they make you nervous. Making friends takes time and effort, but it’s worth it.

What items should I pack when I move to Canada?

Bring your important documents (passport, study permit, admission letters, medical records and prescriptions). Bring one week’s worth of clothing appropriate for the season in which you’ll be arriving – you can shop once you get there. Carry any prescription medications that you take. Bringing a few small items from home that are comforting (like photos, favorite snacks or other familiar things) can also help. Don’t bring too much: You’ll buy most items once you arrive.

Final Thoughts

These stories are just a few of the thousands of international students who have picked Canada for their education. Every journey is different, with its own ups and downs. The students you’ve read about in this article have endured genuine hardships — money problems, homesickness, culture shock and academic stress. But they made lifelong friends, learned plenty, and created memories that will last forever.

If you’re thinking of studying in Canada, go with your eyes wide open. It won’t be easy. You will face challenges that you can’t even conceive of at this point. You will miss home more than you think. You’ll wonder why you chose it on bad days.

But you’ll also discover hidden strengths. You will create friendships all over the world. You will acquire skills and experiences that will shape the rest of your life. You will come out stronger, more independent, more confident and more capable than you thought possible.

The real-life stories of these international students demonstrate that studying in Canada is worth it — not in spite of the challenges, but partly because of them. Those struggles shape you into a stronger person, one equipped to handle whatever comes next in life.

So if you’re thinking of studying in Canada, don’t stay on the fence: Jump. Yes, it’s scary. Yes, it’s hard. But as Maria, Raj, Yuki and Ahmed will tell you: It’s 100 percent worth it.

Sports That Bring Students Together

The Most Popular Winter Sport in Canada is Ice Hockey

Canadians in winter and ice hockey go hand-in-hand. Nearly every school has a hockey team, and students crowd into the stands to root for their classmates. Even if you’re a newcomer, lots of schools have beginners programs where you can learn to skate and hold a hockey stick.

Whether listening to loud, animated students at hockey games or attending a high-intensity school event, I was never without the energy of my fellow students. Students use face paint in school colors, make banners and cheer throughout the game. Even so, many schools have rivalries with their neighboring counterparts spanning several decades which makes the games even more special.

In addition to watching, many students play in recreational hockey leagues. And those leagues are geared more toward fun than competition, as a way to keep active during the frigid Canadian winters.

Basketball and Volleyball Leagues

Indoor sports, including basketball and volleyball, are wildly popular — particularly during the school year. In Canada, you usually have girls teams and boys teams unless it is mixed and everyone plays together which is similar for most Canadian schools.

What’s particularly nice about these sports is that they’re not just for the shining-star athletes. Overall, schools may have more than one tier of teams — competitive for the most skilled players and recreational for anyone who wants to take a shot. So you can join even if you’re learning.

There are also intramural leagues, in which classes or sections of the same school compete against each other. These social events ensure that students meet other kids in different grades and give the school a sense of connection as a whole.

Soccer and Ultimate Frisbee

In warmer months, outdoor sports kick in. Soccer is played throughout Canadian schools at almost every level of ability. Fall and spring soccer seasons are ushering students outside for practice and competition.

Ultimate Frisbee has been growing in popularity among Canadian students in recent years. This adrenaline-fueled game involves running, throwing and teamwork. It’s wildly popular with students, who love it because it’s easy to learn, doesn’t require costly equipment and focuses on fair play and respect.

The Cultural Celebrations That Make Canada Unique

Multicultural Food Festivals

Canada is made up of people from around the world and schools honor this diversity with incredible food festivals. These occasions allow students to bring dishes from their family’s culture, while also experiencing foods they have never eaten before.

It is a festival students spend weeks preparing for. Perhaps they cook traditional dishes with a parent, create displays explaining where their family comes from or do traditional dances. Stroll through any Canadian school at the time of a multicultural festival and you’ll feel as though you’ve taken a trip around the world without ever leaving the building.

These feasts are not only a source of full bellies for everybody. They teach students to have an understanding of other cultures, to break down stereotypes and they make international students feel welcomed and valued.

International Week Activities

A lot of schools in Canada spend a full week celebrating world cultures. Every day can focus on a different part of the world. Pupils wear national dress, learn how to say greetings in different languages and among other things take part in language-focused activities from a range of countries.

Popular International Week activities include:

• Hennas so students can get temporary tattoos
• Calligraphy classes in how to write Chinese or Arabic
• Dance classes that focus on some moves of a country
• Storytelling sessions swapping folktales from all over the world
• Fashion shows displaying traditional outfits

Indigenous Heritage Events

Canadian schools are now making time to discuss and honor Indigenous lifestyles and perspectives with special events and activities. These could take the shape of drum circles, bannock-making workshops, traditional dance performances and storytelling sessions with Indigenous elders.

Students are taught about the First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples who were the “original inhabitants” of Canada. These events are intended to make all students aware of and appreciative for Indigenous history, customs and contributions to Canadian life.

Clubs You Can Create to Showcase Your Talents

Drama Productions and Theater

School drama productions and musicals are always big events in Canadian schools. It’s the result of dozens of students coming together for months to create a show like no other. You don’t need to be an actor to take part — students also help make costumes and sets, do lighting and sound, apply makeup and promote the shows.

Drama production can also be a valuable learning experience in public speaking, collaboration and time management. It also fosters lifelong friendships since you spend so much time working toward a common goal.

At most schools, students there put on two or three productions a year — classic plays, modern musicals and student-written shows. It’s always a big deal on opening night, when the auditorium is packed with families and friends who have come to root for the participants.

Art Clubs and Exhibitions

Canadian schools usually have art clubs for students who are passionate about drawing, painting and anything to do with visual art! You might experiment with painting, sculpture, photography, digital art or printmaking.

Art clubs frequently sponsor exhibitions in which students have the opportunity to exhibit their work. These presentations could take place in the school hallway or a neighborhood community center, or even at an actual art gallery. There is no greater feeling in the world than seeing your art up on a wall where others can enjoy it.

Some schools are also involved in inter-school art competitions and have their articles put up for regional contests. It’s not all about winning – it’s also about expressing yourself and refining your craft.

Music Bands and Choir Groups

There are fantastic music programs in schools across Canada. If you play an instrument or enjoy singing, there are groups to join. School bands may also play during assemblies, athletic events or local community appearances. Choirs are a common feature at concerts, festivals and shopping malls during the holidays.

Most schools have jazz bands, concert bands, rock bands or acoustic ensembles. If you want to learn an instrument, most schools will provide lessons or put you in touch with a teacher.

Concerts are big events held throughout the year at which parents, teachers and community members listen to students perform music. They are the concerts that represent months of hard work and practice.

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Competitions for Academic Minds

Science Fairs and STEM Challenges

Science fairs are serious business in Canadian schools. Students develop experiments, construct projects and present findings to judges. Subjects range from testing which paper airplane designs go the furthest, to studying how pollution impacts a nearby water source.

School fair winners then move on to regional and even national competitions. But you don’t have to walk away a winner to benefit — science fairs are workshops in research, problem-solving and, especially, how to communicate complex ideas clearly.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) challenges are also big. Students might construct robots, write computer code, design bridges out of popsicle sticks or develop apps to solve real-world problems.

Debate Tournaments

Debate clubs instruct students on how to research topics, structure arguments and speak persuasively. Debate formats vary from formal parliamentary and competitive debates to informal lunchtime discussions on current events in Canadian schools.

Debate tournaments are composed of schools from a region or province. Students compete throughout rounds, debating given topics. And even if you don’t win, you gain critical thinking skills that are useful in all your classes and in life.

Many of us remember debate as one of the most rewarding things we did in school, precisely because, by learning to look at all sides of an issue logically and reasonably, it made us more sophisticated thinkers.

Math Contests and Olympiads

For kids who like numbers and love a challenge, math contests are exciting. The Canadian Mathematical Society runs a number of competitions each year at varying levels for all grades.

These are not the kind of math tests you’re used to. Challenges need good thinking and there is more than one answer. Students may work alone or in teams, depending on the competition.

Math clubs assist students in this preparation by understanding problem-solving strategy and learning topics not taught at the regular school classes. Even pupils who don’t think of themselves as “math people” find themselves lured by the game-like qualities of competition problems.

Outdoor Adventures in the Beautiful Nature of Canada

Camping Trips and Wilderness Expeditions

Such a beautiful country, why not make as much use of Canada’s natural beauty? These can be day trips to the provincial parks in your neighborhood or week-long excursions in more distant regions.

Practical skills — like setting up tents, cooking over campfires, reading maps and hiking safely — are the forte of students. They also log off phones and social media, a relief for many students.

At a campfire at night, the students exchange stories and roast marshmallows and see stars in ways not possible in cities. These trips forge deep connections with classmates and lasting memories.

Skiing and Snowboarding Programs

Due to the long, cold winters and mountain ranges, both skiing and snowboarding are popular student activities in Canada. Some schools near mountains organize day trips, and a few have ski clubs that venture out one or more times each week of winter.

No problem if you’ve never skied before — plenty of programs include lessons for beginners. Instructors teach you the fundamentals before you tackle any actual hills. Many students find that with good humor and practice, they can learn enough ski or snowboard skills to have fun on the slope.

For students in provinces like British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec, ski trips are a winter highlight. On spring break, even students from provinces that don’t boast great skiing may take multi-day trips to the mountains.

Canoeing and Kayaking Expeditions

With thousands of lakes and rivers, Canada is ideal for water sports. Schools offer canoeing and kayaking in the warmer months. They include calm afternoon paddles and difficult multi-day trips.

Students are taught how to paddle, learn about water safety and practice cooperation. Most canoes require two people to paddle in order to move efficiently, which encourages teamwork and cooperation.

These water trips give students a view of Canada they might otherwise never see — lakes off the beaten track, wildlife in its natural state and the tranquility of being surrounded by nature.

Community Service Ideas That Help Keep Your Community Entertained

Food Bank Volunteering

A lot of Canadian students work at food banks, which gather and hand out food for families that need help. Students could be tasked with sorting donations, packing boxes or delivering food to those in the community.

These learning experiences can educate students about poverty and food insecurity, while helping them appreciate what they have. And many students were saying that when they volunteer at food banks, it changed their perception of waste and need.

Food drives, often done at schools in which students contribute non-perishable items from home. It is pride of accomplishment to see how many boxes your school fills for a good cause.

Environmental Cleanup Initiatives

Students around Canada hold cleanup days where they collect garbage in parks, at the beach or from neighborhood streets. These events are often held during Earth Day in April, but many schools do cleanups at other times of the year.

Students contribute to maintaining a clean and beautiful environment on their campuses while learning about environmental stewardship. At some, the schools strive to beat their own record for the amount of garbage they gather.

Environmental clubs also tackle bigger projects, such as planting trees, starting school gardens and cutting back on plastic use in their cafeterias. Students can actually see the change taking place as a result of their efforts with these ongoing projects.

Visits to Nursing Homes

Time spent with elderly is some good volunteer work. Students could go to nursing homes and hang out with the residents, play games, read books or put on music and skits.

These intergenerational connections benefit everyone. Older people benefit from the vitality and presence of the young, but they can also learn a lot from older generations. Several students develop lasting friendships with seniors they’ve met through these programs.

Student groups frequently put on special holiday events at nursing homes, for which they bring decorations, treats and entertainment to residents who may not have family in the area.

Technology and Innovation Activities

Coding Clubs and Hackathons

As technology grows more crucial, coding clubs are springing up in school settings across Canada. Students are taught to code in languages like Python, JavaScript or Scratch. They make games, websites, apps and other digital projects.

At hackathons, students compete in groups to create a project within just one or two days. Such competitions are thrilling and demanding, leading students to think outside the box and perform under pressure.

Many coding clubs work with local tech companies, providing students mentorship from professional programmers and exposure to future jobs.

Robotics Competitions

Robotics is a mix of engineering, computer programming and working together as a team. Students construct and program robots to accomplish a challenge. Some well-known competitions include FIRST Robotics and VEX Robotics.

Teams practice for months getting ready for competitions, having meetings after school and on the weekends. The day of competition results in robots fighting their way through obstacle courses, playing games against other robots or finding solutions to difficult problem sets.

Win or lose, robotics builds grit, technical skills and the ability to work effectively in teams. Roughly half the students who do robotics will have engineering or technology careers.

Digital Media and Film Production

These days it has become easier than ever to make videos, thanks in part to smartphones, and affordable editing software. Film clubs and digital media programs allow students to write scripts, film shots, edit videos and produce content.

Some schools are submitting student films to festivals; others screen the films at movie night. Short films, documentaries about school or community issues, music videos and comedy sketches are also potential projects students might produce.

These are the projects that teach storytelling, which develop technical skills and encourage collaboration. Even a brief video, students learn, takes planning, patience and problem-solving.

Fun School Spirit Days and Events That Are Community-Building

Pep Rallies and Spirit Weeks

Pep rallies galvanize excitement in the lead-up to a sports game or large event. The gym erupts with students cheering, chanting and exalting their school. Mascots show up, cheerleaders cheer, teams trot out and occasionally there are silly competitions between grades or teachers.

Spirit weeks have daily themes where students get to dress up. Monday is “Pajama Day,” Tuesday might be “Decade Day,” Wednesday could call for everyone to have a twin, as friends wear the same clothes and Friday generally comes with school colors. These enjoyable traditions are a way to make students feel they belong to a school community.

School Dances and Proms

That’s a big deal, and in high school dance world, there are no bigger deals. Middle schools may hold an informal dance every couple of months, while high schools have more formal dances, like winter formals and prom.

Prom is the school’s most elaborate dance, typically late in the spring and for graduating students. Prom is when students put on gowns and tuxes, roll up to the big dance in fancy cars and dance until dawn. Proms are usually hosted at hotels, banquet halls or other event spaces by schools.

Student councils put a lot of effort into planning these affairs, selecting themes, decorating rooms and arranging entertainment. Though dances can be intimidating, most kids seem to remember them as fun nights spent with friends.

Talent Shows

Talent shows allow students to display skills that may not fit into the regular school day. Students might sing, dance, perform magic tricks, do comedy routines, play unusual instruments or exhibit other skills.

Without variety, talent shows become quite boring. You could have a classical violinist, and then you have that followed by a hip-hop dance, and then it’s somebody juggling doing poetry. They always do, you know, even supportive classmates — all cheering for every performer.

Many students said the experience of performing in a talent show, even if they had still felt nervous, helped build self-confidence that made life easier in other aspects.

Canadian Student Event Calendar

Leadership Opportunities for Students

Student Council Positions

Student councils help to give students a voice in their school decisions. Students’ elected representatives meet regularly with teachers and the principal to talk about student concerns, organize events, and make life at school better.

Student council teaches campaign skills, public speaking and leadership. Council teaches responsibility, how to manage time and how organizations function. Many students say their council experience led them to seek leadership roles in the future.

Councils plan and run big school events such as dances, fundraisers and spirit weeks. They also push for changes students request, such as more options in the cafeteria, better facilities and new clubs and programs.

Peer Mentoring Programs

Older students also frequently mentor younger ones — to help them adjust to new schools, or navigate difficulties. Newbies are matched with more experienced students in these programs, leading to positive relationships.

Mentors could introduce new students around, have lunch with them until they make friends, assist with homework or simply be someone for them to talk to. For the mentors, these programs foster empathy, patience and communication.

For many international students, it is especially important to have a peer mentor who can unpack cultural differences and make them feel less alone in a new country.

Leadership Camps and Conferences

Special camps and conferences are held to train student leaders. These are maybe weekend or even weeklong events during which students from various schools gather.

Activities include team-building exercises; workshops on communication and conflict resolution; conversations about leadership styles and the skills needed to be a good leader, as well as planning projects that can improve schools or communities. Students come back from these reboots jazzed and full of ideas.

Leadership training benefits students in every part of life, not just school. Students are supposed to pick up social skills, too — including how to motivate others, work out conflicts and make progress toward a goal — that leave them better prepared for jobs, relationships and community involvement.

Seasonal Festivals and Celebrations

Winter Carnival Celebrations

Canadian schools both have their own winter carnival days. These can be winter fun activities like ice-skating outside, building snowman competitions, sleigh rides, hot chocolate stations and even snow sculpture competitions.

And some schools even bring in snow, regardless of whether it fell naturally, to turn schoolyards into winter wonderlands. With students bundled in warm clothing, they join together in activities that aren’t about enduring the chill but are instead about making cold weather enjoyable.

Crafts, games and winter-themed performances could be among the indoor carnival activities. These seasonal celebrations help students enjoy Canada’s unique seasons instead of wanting it to be summer all year.

Canada Day Activities

Schools are typically not in session on July 1st, which is Canada Day. Schools often close for events held late in June. Students may have red-and-white themed days, study Canadian history and symbols, or witness citizenship ceremonies should their school have newcomers to Canada.

In the majority of cases, communities put on larger Canada Day celebrations which include concerts, fireworks and fairs/carnivals that many students from the school usually attend with family and friends. It also highlights Canadian values of diversity, inclusion and community.

Terry Fox Runs

Schools — and people of all walks of life — across Canada take part in Terry Fox Runs every September to commemorate the legacy of Terry Fox, a young Canadian who ran across the country to raise money for cancer research after having his leg amputated because it had cancer.

These runs aren’t competitive races. Students walk or run as far as they can while raising money to fight cancer. Some schools have made this an all-school event and students do it together.

Reading about Terry Fox’s courage and generosity is a real motivator for students: one person can change the world! School Terry Fox Runs have raised millions of dollars over the years.

Creative Writing and Journalism Opportunities

School Newspapers and Yearbooks

School newspapers cover school events, profile students and teachers, review books and movies, and see what’s happening with other schools in town. The school paper is where students learn research, writing, interviewing, editing, and meeting deadlines.

Yearbook committees have the important task of memorializing the school year in a book students will treasure for life. Yearbook staff choose the pictures, write captions and lay out spreads, making sure every student is included in some way. It is a huge responsibility and takes organization and attention to detail.

Both newspapers and yearbooks impart useful skills applicable to a variety of careers, including journalism, marketing and publishing.

Poetry Slams and Writing Contests

Poetry slams are lively occasions at which students recite their original poems. Unlike reading quietly from the page, slam poets perform with emotion, rhythm and gesture. The audience snaps their fingers or claps when impressed.

These events make space for students to share how they feel about things that matter – the subjects of social justice, identity, environment and relationships or anything else. The positive environment motivates students to share their heartfelt, original writing.

Writing contests provide pupils with a platform to win prizes and gain recognition. Some are school-wide, some are provincial and others national. It is a high to see your writing published or win an award if you’re a young writer.

Literary Magazines

Schools that produce literary magazines publish student writing about creative literature. It is considered an honor to be chosen for publication and a sign of quality writing.

Students also learn about how work gets published, selecting and editing, the look of the page and distribution. These skills are applicable to numerous professional domains.

By reading the creative work of their classmates, students gain an opportunity to experience new perspectives and forms of writing while also developing appreciation for peers’ talents.

Health and Wellness Programs

Mental Health Awareness Campaigns

Canadian schools are getting better at acknowledging mental health. Students plan awareness campaigns that cut through the stigma and persuade classmates to get help when they are struggling.

Activities could include mindfulness workshops, stress management sessions, speeches by mental health professionals or information about anxiety, depression and other commonly faced problems. Some schools have wellness rooms where students can take peaceful breaks if they feel overwhelmed.

Peer support programs educate students on how to tell when a friend might need assistance and help them access appropriate resources. These efforts build caring school cultures in which asking for help is a sign of strength — not of weakness.

Fitness Challenges and Wellness Days

Fitness challenges that promote healthy habits are coordinated through schools. These can be step-counting challenges, yoga classes, nutrition lectures or wide-scale fitness events.

Wellness days might include meditation, cooking demonstrations with healthy recipes, lessons on the importance of sleep or talks about living a balanced lifestyle. These events remind students that health is a balance of physical, mental and emotional wellness.

Unlike traditional sport, anyone can participate in wellness programs whatever their level of physicality. They focus on self-improvement and positive habits, rather than winning or being the best.

Sports Days and Track Meets

Once a year, sports days see the whole school come together for good-natured physical contests. And activities run the gamut from conventional track races to fun events like three-legged races, water balloon tosses or tug-of-war.

Students are divided into teams or houses to encourage schoolwide rivalry and community building. Even students who are not taking part in sports usually volunteer, as there are activities at the games for all levels of skill.

More serious athletic competitions such as track and field meets see talented runners, jumpers and throwers vie against other schools. It’s meets like these that scout for talents for track and field, which could eventually lead to provincial or national competition.

Student Life in Canada: Frequently Asked Questions about Student Activities

Q: Are there certain things I have to be good at in order to join a club or an activity?

A: Not at all! The majority are open to beginners, at all levels. Whether you are passionate about sports, arts, academics or anything else, there are generally competitive options for experienced students and recreational options for newbies. The key to the program is curiosity and desire; they are not actual skills.

Q: What is the cost of student activities in Canada?

A: Lots of school activities are free or low cost. Most clubs tend to not charge dues. Some activities, such as sports teams, ski trips and travel competitions, have associated costs for such things as equipment and transportation or entry fees. But Canadian schools usually provide financial aid or scholarships to make sure everyone can attend, regardless of their family’s income. If cost is an issue, speak to teachers or counselors.

Q: Are foreign students eligible for any or all of the programs and activities?

A: Yes! It’s easy to attend schools in Canada as an international student. All are welcome at any activity. Many schools also offer programs that are designed to help international students acclimate and make friends. In fact, getting involved is one of the most effective ways for international students to improve English or French, meet Canadian students and feel comfortable in their new country.

Q: How can I see what my school offers?

A: Many schools have activity fairs or club days at the start of each year, when all clubs and activities set up tables to attract new recruits. Look on your school’s website, in announcements, posters hanging in hallways or ask teachers or student council members. There’s also the option of asking your guidance counselor, who should have access to all available activities and be able to help you find something that suits your interests.

Q: Will attending these activities affect my grades?

A: In fact, research has indicated that students engaged in extracurricular activities frequently have higher grade point averages than those who aren’t. Activities promote time management, peace of mind and motivation. If you manage your time properly (reasonable amount of time spent) activities help, not hurt performance. They also make you a more rounded person which is important for applications to university.

Q: What if I’m shy and get nervous when it comes to participating in certain activities alone?

A: You are so not alone in this feeling! Consider coming with a friend so you won’t be alone, or keep in mind that there will be all sorts of other students out there who are joining in by themselves, too. Activity leaders and teachers tend to be very open and will help you become acclimated. You also might dip your toes in with smaller clubs, quieter activities before you tackle bigger, more social ones. The majority of students report that participating in activities did indeed help them become less shy over time.

Q: What if there is something I want to do but my school does not have a club for it?

A: It’s allowed — and in some cases, encouraged — at most Canadian schools. In general, you will need a teacher who is willing to sponsor the club and some students who want to participate. Ask your student council or a trusted teacher about the process at your school. Starting a club demonstrates leadership and initiative that will look good on college applications.

Q: Do activities meet only during school or at other times?

A: It varies. A few clubs meet at lunch or during free periods in the school day. Some meet after school or on weekends. Sports teams typically practice after school and compete on weeknights or weekends. Before you sign up, verify the time commitment to make sure it is manageable with your schedule, family obligations and part-time work if you have a part-time job.

Getting the Most Out of Your Time in Canadian Schools

The experience of being a student in Canada is full of diversity. No matter if you’re into sports, arts, science, community service or trying out new things, you’ll find activities that motivate and excite you. It’s all about stepping outside of your comfort zone & trying things even if they seem intimidating at first.

“Our favorite memories from school are usually not those that came through classes — the play we were in, the tournament we performed in, the volunteer project where we actually made a difference or when we found our hive of friends sitting around at table in that club,” many parents wrote. They literally form the person you become and connections that last far past your school years.

You don’t have to be perfect or the best at everything. What’s important is participating, doing your best, cheering on your classmates and having fun. Canadian student programs encourage participation in a friendly and fun atmosphere.

So give it a try when you see a flyer for an event, get invited to do something new or think about joining a club. Say yes to new experiences. Join your school community. The friends you make and the skills you learn will be with you for life.

There are so many student groups and communities in Canada: you’ll definitely find your tribe. It is an opportunity that will show you how to experience these remarkable years of education as an adventure in learning and personal growth, friendships formed that become a priceless part of your life. There are dozens of spots – just get out and discover them!

Why Location Should Matter for Your University Experience

Where you live during your university years is a big decision that impacts more than just the length of your daily commute. Where you live plays into your study habits, social life, fiscal budget, and well-being. Living near campus leads to less time spent commuting and more opportunities to join clubs, use the library late into the night, or hang out with classmates. But the further you get from campus, in most cases, the better your prices and peace (to a point) for studying.

The good news is that in most university cities, Canada has great public transportation options, so you have a bit more flexibility when looking for housing. Among them are cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Ottawa that have well-run buses, subways and trains that ferry students to campus from a variety of neighborhoods.

Start Your Search Early

It is all about timing when it comes to student housing in Canada. Well, competition is fierce for good housing near universities — at least in hot destinations.

Best Timeline for Your Search:

International Students: Start researching 3-4 months prior to your program commencement.

Local Students: 2-3 months before, start searching

Students who are going to start school in January: Oct or Nov can be a good time to start your search

September Intake Students: Start your search in May or June

The earlier you start, the more choices you have and the better prices. Colleges also start to advertise available off-campus housing in around March or April for the new academic year. If you postpone until August for a September move-in, choices and prices will be limited.

Types of Student Housing Available in Canada

In Canada universities have different types of university accommodation and they all have their own pros and cons. Let’s explore what’s available.

On-Campus Residences

University residences, also known as dorms or halls, are owned and managed by the university. They’re typically the nearest building to your classes and campus facilities.

Advantages:

• No commute to classes
• All utilities paid in one payment per month
• Social events with other students are included
• Meal plans often available
• Furniture provided
• Security and support staff on-site

Challenges:

• More expensive than off-campus options
• Shared rooms or bathrooms with minimal privacy
• Strict guest and noise regulations
• More restricted kitchen access if you are on a meal plan
• Limited availability for upper-year students

The vast majority of Canadian universities give priority to first-year students for residence residences. If you desire to live on campus, begin the application process after receiving your letter of acceptance. Some schools also have different application deadlines for housing.

Off-Campus Apartments and Houses

The most common living option for second-year students and above is off-campus housing, where students can rent an apartment or house near campus. You will have more freedom and often be able to save on cost, compared with residence.

Types of Rentals:

• Bachelor/Studio apartment: A unit that is a single room with the bedroom and living area combined and a separate bathroom.
• One-Bedroom Apartment: Bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathroom.
• Shared Apartment: You rent a bedroom and share the rest of the space with roommates
• Basement Apartment: A subterranean unit in a house, generally lower in price.
• House Rental: Whole house shared by several students

Monthly Prices in Big University Cities:

Homestay Programs

Living with a Canadian family provides the opportunity of enjoying a unique cultural experience, known to be beneficial for international students. A homestay is a private room in a family’s home, usually including meals.

What Makes Homestay Special:

• Experience Canadian culture firsthand
• Practice English or French daily
• Meals included (usually breakfast and dinner)
• Assistance with Canadian acclimation
• Safe and supportive environment

Important Considerations:

• Not as independent as at your own place
• Must adapt to family structure and rules
• Limited privacy
• Monthly cost: between $800-$1,400 (Including meals)

Purpose-Built Student Housing

These are privately managed apartment buildings made just for students. They are increasingly prevalent in college cities.

Features:

• Fully furnished units
• Study rooms and social spaces
• Gym and recreation facilities
• High-speed internet included
• Individual leases (you’re not on the hook if your roommates decide to leave)
• Organized social events

They are priced similarly to university housing, but with more amenities and flexibility. Companies such as Campus Living Centres, Knightstone Capital and CLV Group own buildings from coast to coast in Canada.

Best Sites for Finding Housing

Your best friend when searching for student accommodation is the Internet. Below are some of the most effective platforms utilized by Canadian students.

University Housing Services

Each and every university in Canada will have its own housing office or off-campus housing service. This is where you want to start.

Services They Offer:

• Approved landlords, screened
• Roommate matching services
• Housing workshops and information sessions
• Tenant rights information
• Lease review assistance

Look on your university’s website for a link to its housing portal. Most colleges use platforms such as Places4Students.com or their own listing software.

Popular Rental Websites

Facebook Marketplace and University Housing Groups
Facebook has emerged as one of the most vibrant housing markets for students. Look for groups such as “[University Name] Housing,” “[City] Student Housing” or “[University] Off-Campus Housing.” Sublets, searches for roommates and available rooms are a common student posting.

Kijiji
Canada’s biggest classifieds site also has a lot of housing listings. Sort results by “city,” “price range” and “property type.” Be wary and verify listings before sending money.

Craigslist
Not as popular as it used to be, but Craigslist is still legitimate in major cities. Beware of scams (more on that later).

Rentals.ca and Zumper
These sites consolidate listings from various sources for easy viewing and also offer an array of features like photos, virtual tours and verified reviews from tenants who have lived in the unit.

Padmapper and Liv.rent
These websites display rental options on a map so you can easily see how close the apartments for rent are to your campus.

ViewIt.ca
Known in Toronto and Ontario, this site provides virtual tours and comprehensive listings.

Student-Specific Platforms

Places4Students.com
This site who is partnered with schools all over Canada has verified off-campus housing listings. Both landlords and students can make postings.

4Stay
Focus on student housing with guaranteed housing and secure booking.

StudentHousingHub.ca
Features listings specific to Canadian universities along with roommate matching.

What To Look For In Your Ideal Student Accommodation

All accommodations are not created equal. Here’s what to look for before signing any lease.

Location and Transportation

Distance from Campus: Determine how far you will be. A 30-minute commute may seem all right, but multiplied by twice a day in Canadian winter it becomes a whole different calculation.

Public Transit Access: Validate your potential home’s proximity to bus stops or subway stations. Many universities even offer student pricing for transit passes. Try commuting during the rush hour to see what a typical day will be like for you.

Local Amenities: Identify the local grocery stores, pharmacies, banks and restaurants. A convenient neighborhood saves time and simplifies life.

Safety: Look into the safety reputation of the neighborhood. Several police forces offer online crime maps. Spend time in the area at various times of day, even late into the night.

Apartment Features and Condition

Must-Check Items During Viewing:

• Water pressure and hot water supply
• Heating system functionality (vital in Canadian winter!)
• Window quality and draft prevention
• Cell phone signal strength
• Internet speed (see if they have fiber or cable)
• Natural sunlight (vital for mood through the dark winter)
• Storage space and closet size
• Laundry (in-unit, in-building or nearby laundromat)
• Kitchen appliances condition
• Bathroom fixtures and cleanliness
• Evidence of infestation, mold or water damage

Snap photos and footage as you view. This shields you when you’re moving out and helps jog your memory when comparing properties.

Lease Terms and Costs

Fixed vs Month-to-Month: The majority of student housing is 12 month fixed lease (from May 1st or September 1st). Month-to-month leases provide some flexibility but are less common, and pricier.

Subletting Possible?: If you’re doing an internship or going home for the summer, find out if subletting is possible. Some landlords don’t allow the practice, which means you could end up paying for an empty apartment.

What’s Included: Define precisely what is covered by your rent. Some landlords offer utilities (water, heat, electricity) and internet as part of the rent, while others charge separately for them. Winter heating bills in Canada can be steep, so this stuff matters.

Additional Costs to Budget For:

• Tenant insurance (typically $15-30 monthly)
• Parking (if you have a car): $50-200+ per month
• Laundry: $3-5 a load if not in-unit
• Internet: $50-80 per month if not included
• Hydro (electricity): $30-80 per month if not included

The Application and Signing the Lease

After you find a home that suits your fancy, there’s the application. Here’s what to expect.

Required Documents

The following documents are generally required by most landlords in Canada:

• Photo ID (government issued) passport for international students
• Proof that you are enrolled in your university or an acceptance letter from the same
• References (previous references or friends and family as references)
• Credit check authorization
• Proof of income/guarantor information
• Banking information for pre-authorized payments

For International Students: If you do not have Canadian credit history or income, landlords may ask for:

• A guarantor (someone from Canada who promises to pay if you don’t)
• Advance payment of several months’ rent (2 to 4 months)
• A bigger deposit (though capped by law in most provinces)
• A bank letter to verify the funds

Deposits and First Month’s Rent

Laws for Canadian renters differ from province to province, but in general:

• Ontario: Last month’s rent only (security deposit not allowed)
• British Columbia: Security deposit half month’s rent
• Quebec: No deposits, just first month’s rent
• Alberta: Security deposit is 1-month of the rent

Never wire any money before personally viewing the property or verify through video call. Reputable landlords will have appropriate applications and lease forms.

Reading Your Lease Agreement

The lease is a binding agreement. Read every word before signing. Key items to verify:

• Exact monthly rent amount
• Lease start and end dates
• Amount and return conditions of deposit
• Utilities and services included
• Guest and roommate policies
• Pet policies
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Rules about alterations (painting, decorating)
• Subletting permissions
• Entitlement to terminate on notice
• Landlord’s contact information

If there are areas that aren’t clear, question them. Leases can be reviewed for free by your university housing office.

Avoiding Rental Scams

Unfortunately, there are many scams that specifically target students. Protect yourself by looking for red flags.

Common Scam Warning Signs

The Landlord Refuses to Meet in Person: Accusing you of being a bad renter, the landlord claims to be overseas or out of state and can’t meet with you and show you the property. They ask you to mail them money before they’ll show it to you.

Price Too Good to Be True: A luxury apartment listed at half the market price is another indication of a scam.

Attempts to Pressure You: Scammers might try to create urgency, claiming that several people have expressed interest in the place and that you need to send money immediately.

Ask for Wire Transfers or Gift Cards: Real landlords accept cheque, e-transfer to verified accounts, or bank draft. Never wire money via Western Union or purchase gift cards as payment.

Bad Communication: Scammers’ messages often contain a number of spelling and grammar errors, and they leave little room for genuine communication by either drafting only generic intros or impersonal responses.

Stolen Listings: Criminals steal the details of real rental listings elsewhere and post them on this or other sites at a lower price. Reverse image search any photos to verify whether the images show up elsewhere online.

Protection Steps

• Do not send money to see a property
• In person or on a video call, meet with the landlords
• Make sure the landlord actually owns it (search for property records online)
• Get receipts for all payments
• Employ safe payment methods with buyer protection
• Go with your gut—if it doesn’t feel right, leave

Roommate Matching and Shared Living

Sharing accommodation keeps costs down and comes with built-in social connections. But get stuck with the wrong roommates and your year can be hellish.

Finding Compatible Roommates

University Matching Services: The majority of colleges provide roommate matching as part of its housing portal. You complete a lifestyle questionnaire, and the system comes up with potential matches.

Facebook and Social Media: Every school has housing groups with roommate search threads. Seek out people who lead similar lifestyles, with similar study habits.

Friends from Home: Living with friends would be great if you had similar living habits. Shared living spaces are not the home where some friendships flourish.

Important Compatibility Questions

Before committing to roommates, discuss:

• Sleeping schedule (Morning vs. evening type)
• Cleanliness standards and chore division
• Guest policies and overnight visitors
• Noise preferences and study habits
• Shared expenses and bill splitting
• Food sharing or separate groceries
• Substance use policies
• Conflict resolution approaches

Roommate Agreements

Create a written agreement covering:

• How rent and utilities are divided
• Cleaning schedule and responsibilities
• Quiet hours
• Guest policies
• Common area usage
• Food and supplies sharing
• Can a person move out early?

This avoids misunderstandings, and it provides you with a point of reference if disputes come up.

Special Considerations for International Students

It’s more difficult for international students to find a place to live in Canada.

Arriving Before Your Lease Starts

If you’re moving to Canada before the lease starts, think about:

• Temporary university housing
• Short-term Airbnb or hotel
• Hostels in the university area
• Homestay starting immediately

There are some universities that provide short-term housing with their early arrival programs for international students. For more information about studying in Canada, visit EduCanada.

Banking and Payment Setup

Get a Canadian bank account in your name as soon as possible. Most landlords demand Canadian banking for rental payments. Bring:

• Passport and study permit
• University acceptance letter
• Address Proof (start using your university address)

Many of the big banks – those located near universities – offer student accounts with no monthly fees.

Phone and Internet

Secure a Canadian phone number quickly for apartment hunting and communicating with landlords. Low-cost carriers such as Freedom Mobile, Fido and Koodo also provide student rates.

Cultural Adjustment

The etiquette around Canadian apartments may be different than in your home country:

• Quiet hours (usually after 11 p.m. on weekdays)
• Shoe removal when entering homes
• Waste sorting and recycling requirements
• Snow removal responsibilities (when renting a house)
• Control of heating to avoid the freezing of pipes in winter

Seasonal Considerations in Canadian Housing

Canada’s harsh weather conditions affect housing in ways that international students may not anticipate.

Winter Weather Impact

Heating Costs: Heating during winter is costly. Apartments with heat included in rent were suddenly more desirable during Canadian winter. If you will be paying for utilities separately then budget an additional $80–150 a month during the winter months (November to March) for heating.

Insulation: Check windows for viewing drafts. Inadequate insulation results in higher bills and discomfort during -20°C weather.

Snow Removal: If you rent a house or a ground-floor apartment, figure out who does snow shoveling. That’s a grim task from December to March in much of Canada.

Summer Sublets

A lot of students go back home for the summer (May-August), so there are plenty of sublets. Subletting for the summer is usually cheaper and more flexible. However:

• Confirm primary tenant can sublease. Check the sublet rider to the primary tenant’s lease for provisions which affect you.
• Get written sublease agreements
• Confirm that the primary will come back (or else you’ll have to move again)
• Take “condition photos” when you move in

Your Rights as a Renter in Canada

Each province has its own tenant protection laws. Knowing your rights prevents exploitation.

Key Tenant Rights

Privacy: Landlords need to provide 24 hours notice before entering your apartment, unless there is an emergency.

Rent increases: Provinces restrict the amount and frequency that rent can increase (typically once a year, with 90 days’ notice and capped percentages).

Repairs and maintenance: Landlords must provide residents with clean, safe living space. That includes heat, water, structure and pests.

Eviction Protection: Landlords cannot evict you without proper legal protocol and valid reasons. You have a right to fight an unfair eviction.

Deposit Returns: Upon moving out, landlords are required to return deposits (minus valid damages) within a set period of time dictated by provincial law.

Provincial Tenant Resources

• Ontario: Landlord and Tenant Board (tribunalsontario.ca)
• British Columbia: Residential Tenancy Branch (gov.bc.ca)
• Quebec: Tribunal administratif du logement (tal.gouv.qc.ca)
• Alberta: Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (rtdrs.alberta.ca)

Moving In and Getting Settled

You’ve signed the lease—now what?

Before Move-In Day

Photograph and videotape everything: Before you move in, document the condition of the entire apartment. Observe for any existing damages, stains that may be on the carpet, or any issues. Email these to your landlord so you have a dated record.

Set Up Utilities and Internet: If utilities aren’t included in your rent, call to set them up 2–3 weeks before moving. Internet installation can take a few weeks, so plan ahead.

Purchase Tenant Insurance: This will protect your belongings, and offer liability coverage for you. It’s inexpensive ($15-30 per month) and many landlords require it.

Plan Your Move: Book movers in advance, if necessary. If you are moving yourself, schools usually have “free stuff” pages online where students give away furniture, dishes and so on.

Essential Shopping List

Furniture:

• Bed frame and mattress
• Desk and chair for studying
• Dresser or storage
• Living room seating

Kitchen Essentials:

• Pots, pans, and baking sheets
• Dishes, glasses, and utensils
• Can opener, cutting board, knives
• Dish soap and cleaning supplies

Bathroom Needs:

• Shower curtain and bath mat
• Towels and toiletries
• Toilet paper and tissues
• Cleaning products

Other Important Items:

• Bedding (don’t forget blankets for a Canadian winter)
• Lamps for adequate lighting
• Laundry supplies
• First aid kit
• Tool kit for basic repairs

Purchase from IKEA, Walmart, or Canadian Tire for affordable student furniture. Look on Facebook Marketplace and university “free and for sale” groups for items going secondhand.

Budget Planning for Student Accommodation

Your biggest cost will be housing. Here’s how to budget effectively.

Monthly Housing Budget Breakdown

Typical Student Monthly Expenses:

• Rent: $600-2,200 (depending on city and type of accommodation)
• Utilities: $70-160
• Internet: $50-80 (if not included)
• Tenant insurance: $15-30
• Groceries: $200-400
• Transportation pass: $80-130
• Phone: $40-75
• Total Housing-Related: $1,055-3,075

Money-Saving Strategies

Pick Your Roommates: You can save significantly by splitting a two-bedroom (with someone in the living room).

LIVE FARTHER FROM CAMPUS: Housing areas 20-30 minutes from campus are often 10-25% less expensive. Good transit access makes this possible.

Include Utilities in Rent: If your apartment includes utilities, it saves you from surprise heating bills and makes proportioning your budget simpler.

Cook at Home: Honestly, meal plans are quite expensive and going out to eat will make a bigger dent in your bank account than you think. Students who cook shell out $200-300 a month for groceries versus $400-600 in meal plans or takeout.

Buy Used Furniture: Students are constantly graduating and moving out. You could outfit an entire apartment on Facebook Marketplace for $200-500.

Use Student Discounts: Whip out your student ID everywhere. Many companies provide 10-15% discounts on everything from phone plans to groceries.

Final Thoughts on Finding a Home With Good Vibes

Keep an Organized List: Put together a spreadsheet with details for each property you see including the pros, cons, cost and contact information. This way there is no mixup when comparing the options.

Be Professional: Respond to landlords in a professional manner. Landlords pick tenants they like, so be nice!

Keep Your Documents Ready: Get your application package ready ahead of time so you can apply the second you find a good place.

Don’t Wait Too Long: But as much as you have to start early, don’t jump at the first place you find. Just keep looking until you find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.

Ask Current Tenants: If you can, speak with people who currently live at the building. They can provide candid feedback on the landlord, maintenance and noise levels, too.

Go With Your Gut: If there’s something the least bit off about a landlord, property or deal, pass. There are always other options.

Crafting a Sense of Home Wherever You Go

When you get there, make the space your own so you’re comfortable and have a good environment for studying.

Set Up a Study Space: Dedicate a spot for studying that’s well lit, free from distractions, and has everything needed on-hand.

Personalize: Pictures, posters, plants, and decorations help your room feel like home. Many leases permit removable wall hooks and temporary decorations.

Stock Your Kitchen: Store staple items in your kitchen for easy and more affordable cooking. Stockpile a variety of spices, oils, pasta, rice and canned goods.

Create Community: Meet your neighbors and building mates. Living with friends around can certainly make you feel at ease and also, help in times of need.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to start looking for housing near a Canadian university?
Begin exploring 3-4 months in advance of your desired move-in date. For September admissions, start to look in May or June. For January intake, consider starting in October or November. This way you have the best selection and rates.

How much should I plan for rent near a Canadian university?
Prices range from $600 to $900 a month for a shared room and from $1,500 to $2,600 for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on the city. The most expensive are in Toronto and Vancouver; the least, in Montreal, Winnipeg and Halifax. Always be sure to add utilities ($70-160), internet ($50-80) and tenant insurance ($15-30) to your monthly budget.

Is it possible for international students to get an apartment in Canada without credit score?
Yes, but you may need to offer additional documentation (like several months of rent upfront or a Canadian guarantor) to prove your financial stability. Some landlords positively encourage international students, and have the necessary support in place to cater for them.

On-campus or Off-campus: Which is better?
Living on campus is perfect for first year students looking for convenience, a supportive environment and an all-inclusive experience. Housing off campus is usually cheaper for upper-year students and allows for more freedom and space. When making a choice, have in mind your priorities and budget, as well as the year you are studying.

What will I need in order to rent an apartment in Canada?
You’ll be asked to provide government-issued ID (passport for international students), proof of university enrollment, references, consent for a credit check and banking information. International students will also need to organize documentation of funds, including possibly a guarantor.

How can I prevent myself from becoming victim to a scam while seeking student housing?
Don’t wire money or make advance payments. Stay away from deals that sound too inexpensive, try to meet with landlords in person when possible, authenticate the landlord’s ownership of the property and use safe payment methods. If a landlord puts the squeeze on you to act on the spot, or if they won’t let you see a rental unit in person before signing a lease, it is probably a scam.

Do Canadian student rentals come with utilities?
It varies. Some rentals include all utilities (water, heat and electricity) in the rent; others charge extra. Always know what you’re signing before you sign it. Heat-included rentals are extremely useful in the Canadian winter as heating costs can become extravagant.

If I go home for the summer, can I sublet my apartment?
This varies between your lease and provincial rental laws. Many leases permit subletting with landlord consent. Always get permission in writing and sign a sublease agreement. Do not ever sublet, unless you have permission to do so in your lease, or you could be evicted.

How can I find off-campus housing roommates?
Lean on your university’s roommate matching service, Facebook housing groups for your school or mixers for new arrivals at orientation. If you’re considering living with friends, talk about lifestyle compatibility before you make a decision, and even consider drafting a roommate agreement that outlines responsibilities for expenses, chores and house rules.

What should I look for when viewing an apartment?
Test the water pressure and heating, check if there are drafts around windows, see if your cell phone gets a signal or if you have access to wifi, look for signs of pests or mold, examine appliances and fixtures and test how much natural light there is morning noon and night. Photograph and videotape the home to help you remember details when comparing properties.

What to Do Next Once You’ve Found a Great Student Rental

Renting housing close to a Canadian university involves the same sort of advance preparation, research and attention to detail – but is so worth it. A good home, one which is warm, safe and affordable, helps create an environment where academic excellence can flourish.

Begin looking early, use multiple resources, keep track well and hold firm to what you need. Whether you opt for on-campus housing, off-campus apartment housing or a homestay, there is the perfect place to call home.

Keep in mind that wherever you live is one of the first of many adjustments you’re going to make as a college student. Be kind to yourself, seek help when you need it and rely on your university’s support services. They are there to help students like you search for a great place to live.

Finding a place to call home is the first step in your Canadian university adventure. You’re armed with the knowledge and tactics in this guide to find a place of residence that accommodates your needs, wallet, and way-of-life. I wish you the best of luck in your search, and welcome to Canadian university life!

Why Canadian Students Work While Studying

Before we proceed with tips, let’s talk about why so many students in Canada choose to work while studying.

• Financial support. Tuition, rent, groceries, transportation, and other expenses can quickly add up. Students who work part-time can rely less on loans or family support.
• Canadian work experience. Even a part-time job in a coffee shop or a retail store can signal to future employers that you know how to navigate the Canadian workplace, provide good customer service, and understand professional expectations.
• Building connections. Working allows you to meet new people, including potential references and mentors who can support your career growth.
• Life skills. Time management, communication, problem-solving, and responsibility are all skills you can develop in a part-time job and that may be more important than what you learn in the classroom.

Understand Your Legal Work Rights

Before you jump to work, be sure that you understand the rules. Canada’s international students are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during regular academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks such as summer vacation or winter holidays. If you break these rules, your study permit may be at risk, so never exceed the allowed numbers of hours by law.

Canadian students (citizens and permanent residents) are not restricted in these ways, but they should also be thinking cautiously about work hours to avoid overwhelming themselves.

Establish a Successful Weekly Routine

The failure to do this is one of the biggest mistakes students make. Your brain is not a calendar — it needs assistance. A visual weekly schedule is your first step to an element of balance.

Plot Out Non-negotiable Commitments: Block off time for classes, labs and work shifts. These are non-negotiable, so they go in first.

Include Study Blocks: Plan time to study, get work done and study for tests. Treat these blocks with as much weight, commitment and rigidity you would a work shift.

Build in Personal Time: Don’t just plan for food, exercise, friends and relaxation. It’s not a luxury — it’s a necessity in order to stay healthy and focused.

Employ Digital Tools: Apps such as Google Calendar, Notion or even a simple paper planner can help you see your week. Use a different color for each activity, and you can see at a glance where your time is going.

Sample Weekly Schedule

That’s just one example — your schedule will look different based on what you have going on.

Selecting the Best Job for You

There are good part-time jobs and there are bad part-time jobs for students. Some jobs are rather flexible, and others have rigorous schedules that may conflict with your exam schedule or group projects.

Seek Out Student-Friendly Employers: There are many companies around colleges and universities where students work, and they have hours that accommodate student schedules. Usually the most flexible on-campus jobs are at libraries, cafeterias or student services.

Think About Remote or Freelance Work: Skills in writing, graphic design, tutoring and social media management can provide the ultimate flexibility with freelance work. You work in your spare time.

Stay Away from Jobs with Irregular Hours: Positions that constantly shift your schedule on a daily basis or require you to work during exam weeks can add unnecessary pressure.

Match the Job to Your Energy Level: If you’re a morning person, seek out a morning shift. If you’re a night person, evening shifts could be more your sort of thing. Fighting the current of what is natural makes everything more difficult.

Master Time Management Techniques

Time management is more about working smarter, not harder. Here are some strategies that really work for busy students:

The Pomodoro Technique: Work or study in focused 25 minute blocks, then take a 5-minute break. After every 4 blocks, take a longer break: from 15-30 minutes. This is what keeps your brain fresh and prevents burnout.

Time Blocking: Use specific time slots for specific tasks. Instead of saying that you’ll “study biology,” write down on the calendar “Review Chapter 5 notes, 2:00-3:30 PM.” Being specific adds to your accountability.

The Two-Minute Rule: If it takes less than two minutes, do it now. It’s easier to reply to an email or wash your dishes or put away your textbooks when you stop procrastinating with little tasks.

Batch Like Tasks: Consolidate activities. Respond to all emails at once, complete all your reading for the week in one go, get everything you need from errands in a single outing. This helps lower the cost of context switching as you’re not constantly changing between different classes of work.

Identify Your Peak Hours: Most people have parts of the day when they are most productive. Now schedule your most difficult tasks during these peak hours and save simpler ones for when your energy is waning.

Learn to Say No Without Guilt

This may be the most difficult skill to acquire, but it is also one of the most significant. You can’t do everything, and attempting to will lead to unhappiness, bad grades, even health problems.

Turn Down Extra Shifts When Overwhelmed: If you have midterms around the corner or a big presentation to work on, it’s okay to turn down extra shifts when your boss calls asking for help.

Decide What Social Events to Engage In: You don’t have to go to every party or informal get-together. Pick the events that best suit you and skip the rest without regret.

Cut Back on Extracurriculars: Student clubs and organizations provide a lot of learning opportunities, but you don’t need to be a part of five different groups. Choose one or two that are most relevant to your interests or career objectives.

Be Upfront: Let your employer know your exam schedule. Let your friends know when you need a quiet moment to study. For the most part, people will honor your boundaries if you simply spell them out.

• Explore top 10 government scholarships for international students in Canada — Click here

Keep Things in Order – Deadlines and Priorities

Not meeting deadlines makes you panic and provides stressed water to pour over your life. Staying organized prevents this.

Utilize Assignment Trackers: The moment you learn of a new assignment, test or project deadline, even when it’s at the beginning of the school year, DOCUMENT IT! Numerous students keep close track of all assignments in spreadsheets or with apps like Todoist or Trello.

Divide Large Projects Into Smaller Steps: A 20-page research paper looks impossible. But if you break it down into smaller tasks — decide on topic, find sources, write outline, write introduction and so forth — it’s manageable.

Employ the Eisenhower Matrix: Categorize your tasks as either one of four things:

• Urgent and Important (do first)
• Important but Not Urgent (schedule time for these)
• Urgent but Not Important (delegate if at all possible)
• Not Urgent and Not Important (eliminate)

Review Your Week Every Sunday: Spend 15 minutes reviewing your upcoming week each and every Sunday. What deadlines are approaching? Which days will be busiest? What can you prepare ahead of time?

Physical Well-being is Paramount

Your body is the machine that brings you to school or work. And if that fails, everything else does.

Get 7-8 Hours of Sleep Per Night: Not sleeping enough breaks your memory, concentration and immune system. No coffee will ever replace sleep. If you’re consistently getting fewer than 7 hours, something in your schedule must change.

Have Regular, Nutritious Meals: Missing meals or living on instant noodles may seem to save time and money in the short term, but is a poor saving when it comes to your energy levels and ability to concentrate. Prepping meals over the weekend will guarantee you have healthy fare ready even on hectic days.

Stay Hydrated: Fatigue, headaches, and lack of concentration are the result of dehydration. Carry a filled water bottle with you throughout the day and refill it as needed.

Move Your Body: You don’t have to join a gym, or be on the road an hour a day for exercise. A brisk 20-minute walk or some stretching at home, even a quick fitness video in the comfort of your own living room can make all the difference to mood and energy.

Take Real Breaks: Scrolling through social media is not a break — it’s simply a different kind of screen time. Take real breaks where you step away from all screens, ideally including fresh air or something else that you genuinely like.

Protect Your Mental Health

Just the stress of juggling work and schooling can be bad for your mental health. Look for red flags and address issues before they become major.

Identify the Signs of Burnout: When you’re simply depleted, irritable, unable to focus, unmotivated and have physical symptoms (like headaches or stomach issues), these are indications that you’re pushing yourself too hard.

Take Advantage of Campus Mental Health Resources: Many Canadian colleges and universities provide free student counseling services. Don’t wait until you’re a crisis — visiting a counselor during periods of stress could prevent larger issues. For more information about mental health resources, visit Canada.ca Mental Health.

Use Stress-Relief Tricks: Whatever helps you meditate, journal, visit with friends, exercise, play music or work on a hobby. Incorporate these into your schedule as regularly scheduled programming, not just when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Stay in Touch: Everything is harder when you’re isolated. Prioritize friends and family — even if it’s just a brief video call or coffee together.

Be Honest If You’re Struggling: Let your professors, employer or academic advisor know if you are falling behind or overwhelmed. Many are even willing to help, especially if you tell them early rather than ghosting or quietly failing.

Talk to Employers and Professors Like a Human

Clear communication can prevent many problems before they even begin.

Let Your Employer Know Ahead of Time: If you have upcoming exams or know your school schedule will be shifting, give your employer a heads-up as early as possible. Last-minute requests are more difficult to fulfill.

Be Professional and Dependable: Arrive on time, fulfill your work shifts and don’t call in sick unless you really are. When you need flexibility, having a reputation as someone who isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves can make your boss more agreeable.

Speak to Professors About Extensions: If you’re feeling truly overwhelmed and could use some extra time on an assignment, reach out before the due date. Many people will make an exception if you ask nicely and don’t do it too often.

Keep Your Availability Current: If your class schedule changes from semester to semester, change your work availability as soon as possible so that management can adjust the shifts accordingly.

Take Advantage of Campus Resources

Canadian schools offer you plenty of resources specifically designed to aid students reach their goals. Take advantage of them.

Writing Centers: Help with papers and reports.

Math and Science Help Centers: If you are finding problem sets especially challenging or would like help understanding course concepts, you can go to the drop-in tutoring sessions for free.

Career Services: Assistance with resumes, job search and preparing for interviews. They may also be able to hook you up with a co-op or internship.

Financial Aid Department: If you have a financial issue, talk to the financial aid officer about scholarships, bursaries, emergency loans or budget planning.

Academic Advisors: Whether you have questions about classes to take or your course load is causing stress, academic advisors are available to help guide you through the process.

Factor in Exams and Busy Periods

This is just a convenient week for most students. There’s also additional study time required for midterms and finals.

Do Fewer Hours of Work During Exam Time: Although by no means easy, for the week before any major exams try to reduce your working hours. Spend those hours on studying instead.

Study Early: Don’t start cramming for exams the week before finals. Sufficiently review your notes at regular intervals during the semester so that you are not starting from zero.

Form Study Groups: Studying with others can help to break down difficult material and ensures that you have an incentive to show up and put in the work.

Utilize Practice Exams: Some professors provide practice exams or old exams. These are gold — they tell you exactly what form your exam will take and what you need to know.

Plan for the Worst: Have a backup plan in case something unexpected happens. What if you become ill during finals? What happens when your car breaks down on the way to work?

Find Your Support System

You do not have to work and study alone. Surround yourself with people who want to see you succeed.

Seek Out Other Working Students: They know exactly what you’re experiencing, and can share advice, resources and pep talks.

Rely on Family and Friends: Tell the people who care about you when you’re feeling stressed or in need of a hand. Sometimes just running through your schedule with another person will help you see solutions that eluded you.

Join Student Societies: It’s likely your university will have societies for international students, mature students or part-time and working students. These communities offer both advice and emotional support.

Seek Out a Mentor: A senior student, professor or professional in your field can provide guidance and perspective in dark days of inadequacy.

Review Balance and Monitor It Regularly to Keep Balance

What works in September doesn’t necessarily work in November. What worked last semester may need to be readjusted this semester. Check in with yourself regularly and make adjustments when necessary.

Do Monthly Check-Ins: At the end of each month, take a moment to ask yourself — what went well? What was challenging? What else needs to change next month?

Be Flexible: Life happens. You may need to work fewer hours, drop a class or take a lighter course load in one semester. These changes are not failures — they’re sensible reactions to new realities.

Celebrate Your Victories: Recognize when you crush a hectic week, ace an exam and receive appreciation at work. These celebrations keep you motivated to not jump ship during the hard times.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours should I work while studying in Canada?

During school semesters, international students are allowed to work 20 hours/week legally. But you may or may not want to work all 20 hours; it depends on your class load, difficulty of your program and how much time you have. Some students can easily handle 15-20 hours/week with a full course load, while others perform better with 10-15. Begin with fewer hours and add more gradually if you can handle it all.

What are the best part-time jobs for Canadian students?

On-campus jobs such as library assistant, student ambassador or research assistant tend to allow the most flexibility. Off-campus: retail positions, food service work, tutoring and administrative work are typical units of employment. If you have marketable skills, remote freelance work in fields such as writing, design or virtual assistance can offer maximum flexibility.

How do I manage stress when work and school get busy at the same time?

The first is prioritization — to be ruthless in determining not only what you have to do now, but also in deciding what can wait. Keep communicating with your employer and your professors about what’s going on. Use any and all resources, including requesting deadline extensions if possible. Keep up with your basic needs (rest, eating, moving) even in the thick of it. Lastly, also keep in mind that challenging times don’t last forever — just get through them as best you can, not perfectly.

If I need to work, should I take fewer courses?

If you have to work for financial reasons or if a full course load is consistently just too much, then cutting back on your courses means that you’re able to reduce stress — and it may be the best decision. A lot of students just take lighter course loads and have to draw their program out a semester, or even year, rather than burn themselves out or fail courses. But international students usually are required to remain full-time students (usually nine credit hours per semester) in order to keep their study permit valid, so check with your international student office before you drop a course.

How do I not fall behind in classes when working?

Keep it all together, in very organized fashion, with a calendar and assignment tracker. Leverage small time between appointments to go through notes, or catch up with some reading. Attend lectures — going to lectures is one of the most efficient ways to learn. Don’t skip classes. Begin tasks ahead of time instead of putting them off until the last minute. Form study groups for accountability. And most importantly, reach out to professors early if you are struggling, instead of waiting until you’ve already gotten behind.

Can part-time work actually aid in my studies?

Yes! It’s good to work because work teaches you time management, gets you to use your study time most efficiently and gives you the real-world benefit of what you’re learning, along with those professional skills. For most students who work 10-20 hours a week, workforce participation enhances their performance because it creates order and lessens wasted time. The trick is striking the right balance — too many work hours are bad for academics, but just enough can enhance them.

My employer doesn’t respect my student schedule. What should I do?

Begin by being clear and professional about how much time and what kind of support you need. If that fails, get HR or upper management involved. Record when your time was disrespected. If there’s no change, consider finding a more student-friendly employer. Your education should be and must be your first priority; any good employer will understand and work with that.

Your Path to Balance Begins Now

Juggling work and study in Canada isn’t easy, but thousands of students manage to do it each year. The strategies in this article aren’t theoretical — they are practical tactics employed by real students who have somehow been able to work, stay on top of their academics, look out for themselves health-wise, and still make the most of their college experience.

Keep in mind that balance doesn’t necessarily have to be distributed evenly. It’s all about focusing in on a suitable balance between different aspects of your life at this moment, according to current demands and goals. Some weeks, school will need more of your attention. On other weeks, there might be more work to do. The point isn’t to achieve perfect balance every day; instead, it’s an overall equilibrium that allows you to meet your responsibilities without sacrificing all of your health or sanity.

Start small. You don’t need to apply every tip in this article at the same time. Select two or three that feel most impactful for you to start with. Once these tactics are habits, add a few more slowly. Give yourself time to figure out what’s best for your unique situation, self and goals.

Just as your training is an investment in your future, so is work experience. With forethought, strong communication and taking care of yourself, you can — and should — be successful at both with an eye to creating a contributing career in Canada. You’ve got this!

Why Internships Matter for International Students

Many international students struggle with gaining work experience in a foreign country. Companies often prefer candidates familiar with local work culture. Internships give students a chance to build this familiarity and develop professional networks. Moreover, they can help students understand industry trends, workplace expectations, and even soft skills like communication and teamwork.

Difference Between Internships and Co-op Programs

It’s important to know the difference:

Understanding this distinction helps students choose the right path for their career goals.

How to Find Internship Opportunities Abroad

Finding the right internship can feel overwhelming, but there are several practical ways to do it:

1. University Career Centers – Most universities have career offices that post internship opportunities. They often have partnerships with local companies and can guide international students on visa-related concerns.

2. Job Portals and Professional Networks – Platforms like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed, and Handshake can help students find openings globally. Regularly updating your profile and engaging with industry groups increases visibility.

3. Faculty Connections – Professors and advisors often have contacts in the industry. A simple email expressing your interest can open doors.

4. Career Fairs – Universities host virtual and in-person fairs where international students can meet recruiters directly. Always prepare a tailored resume and elevator pitch.

Visa and Work Authorization Considerations

International students must be aware of visa restrictions before applying for internships. For example, students on an F-1 visa in the U.S. may be eligible for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training), which allows them to work legally during or after studies. Other countries have different rules:

Always check official immigration websites for up-to-date requirements.

Tips for a Successful Internship Experience

Securing an internship is just the first step. To make it meaningful, international students should focus on:

• Setting Clear Goals – Know what skills you want to learn and what type of experience you expect.

• Networking – Build relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and industry professionals. This can lead to future job opportunities.

• Professional Communication – Learn local workplace etiquette. Small things like punctuality, tone in emails, and meeting behavior make a big difference.

• Seeking Feedback – Regular feedback helps improve skills and performance. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request mentorship.

• Documenting Experience – Keep a record of projects, achievements, and skills gained. This will help in resumes and interviews later.

Challenges International Students Might Face

While internships offer immense benefits, international students often face unique challenges:

• Cultural Differences – Workplace norms may differ from your home country. Being observant and adaptable helps.

• Language Barriers – Even with good English skills, workplace jargon and accents can be tough. Asking for clarification is always better than guessing.

• Limited Opportunities – Some companies hesitate to hire international students due to visa paperwork. Applying early and targeting companies familiar with international talent can help.

Benefits Beyond the Resume

Internships aren’t just about work experience. They also help international students:

• Understand the work culture of the host country.

• Build confidence in professional settings.

• Develop soft skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.

• Increase chances of full-time job offers post-graduation.

• Expand professional network globally.

Virtual Internships – A Growing Trend

In recent years, virtual internships have become more popular, especially for international students who cannot relocate immediately. These internships allow students to work remotely with companies in different countries. While they may lack in-person interaction, virtual internships still offer valuable skills and networking opportunities.

How to Make Your Application Stand Out

For international students, standing out in a competitive job market requires effort:

1. Tailor Your Resume – Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and previous internships. Include international experiences if relevant.

2. Strong Cover Letter – Explain why you are interested in the company and how you can add value.

3. Portfolio of Work – For fields like IT, design, marketing, or writing, a portfolio showcasing past work makes a huge difference.

4. Interview Preparation – Research the company, understand common interview questions, and practice professional communication.

Internship vs Part-Time Jobs

Some students confuse internships with part-time jobs. Here’s a quick comparison:

Aspect	Internship	Part-Time Job
Goal	Skill development and career experience	Earn money
Supervision	Often structured, mentorship-focused	Minimal guidance, task-oriented
Duration	Temporary, project-specific	Can be ongoing, flexible
Learning	Focused on learning, growth	Focused on completing tasks

FAQs About Internships and Co-op Programs for International Students

Q: Can international students do unpaid internships?
A: Yes, but it depends on visa rules. Some countries allow unpaid internships; others require compensation. Always verify with immigration authorities.

Q: Are co-op programs better than internships?
A: Not necessarily. Co-op programs are longer and more structured, often tied to academics. Internships are shorter and may provide flexibility. The choice depends on your goals.

Q: How early should I apply for an internship?
A: Ideally 3–6 months before the start date. Competitive companies often close applications early, especially for international students.

Q: Can internships lead to full-time jobs?
A: Absolutely. Many companies hire interns as full-time employees after graduation if they perform well.

Q: Do I need previous experience to get an internship?
A: Not always. Many internships are designed for students with little or no prior work experience. Focus on skills, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.

Conclusion

Internships and co-op programs are more than just resume boosters—they are a gateway to professional growth, cultural understanding, and career opportunities. For international students, they provide a chance to navigate a new work environment, develop crucial skills, and build a global network. By carefully planning, understanding visa requirements, and being proactive, international students can make their internships a transformative part of their academic journey.

Understand the Job Market
Before you start applying for jobs, you need to understand the Canadian job market. Different provinces have different demands, so research industries that are growing. For example:

Tip: Websites like Job Bank Canada, Indeed Canada, and LinkedIn are great for spotting trends in your field.

Get Work Authorization
To work legally in Canada after graduation, you need the right permit. Most international graduates apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work full-time for up to 3 years depending on your program.

• Make sure you apply within 180 days of receiving your final marks.

• Keep a record of all your documents, including transcripts, degree certificates, and passport copies.

• Check your eligibility carefully before applying; mistakes can delay your work permit.

Polish Your Resume and Cover Letter
Canadian employers value clarity and professionalism. Your resume should be concise (1-2 pages) and highlight achievements, not just responsibilities.

Resume Tips:

• Use bullet points for skills and experiences.

• Include measurable achievements (“Increased sales by 20% in 6 months”).

• Avoid personal details like age or marital status (not required in Canada).

Cover Letter Tips:

• Make it personalized for each job.

• Explain why you are a good fit for the role.

• Keep it professional but natural, as if you’re talking directly to the recruiter.

Network Actively
Networking is key in Canada. Many jobs are filled through connections rather than just online applications.

• Attend career fairs at your university.

• Join professional associations in your field (e.g., CPA for accounting, IEEE for engineering).

• Connect with alumni and professionals on LinkedIn.

• Don’t hesitate to ask for informational interviews; people are often willing to share advice.

Gain Canadian Work Experience
Employers value local experience. If you can, try internships, co-op programs, or volunteer work while studying. Even small roles help you understand workplace culture and improve your resume.

Skill Development and Certifications
Sometimes, your degree alone isn’t enough. Supplementing your education with certifications can give you an edge:

Tip: Short online courses from platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or Udemy can help you get certifications quickly.

Understand Canadian Workplace Culture
Canadian workplaces value punctuality, teamwork, and effective communication. Some key points:

• Be respectful and professional in emails and meetings.

• Emphasize collaboration rather than only individual achievements.

• Don’t oversell yourself; modesty is appreciated.

Leverage Job Portals and Recruitment Agencies
Besides LinkedIn, use Canadian job portals like:

• Indeed.ca

• Workopolis.com

• Monster.ca

• TalentEgg (for recent graduates)

Recruitment agencies can also help, especially for industries like IT, finance, and engineering.

Consider Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
If you plan to settle permanently, some provinces offer fast-track immigration for graduates who have Canadian work experience. PNPs allow you to get permanent residency while continuing to work.

Develop Soft Skills
Employers value soft skills as much as technical ones. Focus on:

• Communication (written and verbal)

• Problem-solving and adaptability

• Teamwork and collaboration

• Time management

These are often what make or break a job interview.

Prepare for Interviews
Canadian interviews can include:

• Behavioral questions (“Tell me about a time you solved a problem at work”).

• Technical questions (industry-specific tests).

• Situational questions (“How would you handle a difficult client?”).

Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions clearly.

Set Career Goals and Track Progress
Define your short-term and long-term goals:

• Short-term: Get a job in your field within 6 months of graduation.

• Medium-term: Gain 2-3 years of Canadian experience.

• Long-term: Move up to senior positions or specialized roles.

Keep a journal of your applications, networking contacts, and feedback. This will help you improve and stay motivated.

• Find out which Canadian universities offer financial aid to students — Read full post

Freelancing and Entrepreneurship
If traditional jobs are slow to come by, consider freelancing or starting your own business. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal allow you to earn while building a portfolio. Canada also offers support for young entrepreneurs and start-ups, especially for international graduates.

FAQs

Q1: How long can I stay in Canada after graduation to find a job?
A1: With a Post-Graduation Work Permit, you can stay and work full-time for up to 3 years depending on your program length.

Q2: Do I need Canadian experience to get a job?
A2: While it’s not always mandatory, having Canadian work experience significantly improves your chances. Internships, volunteer work, and co-op programs help.

Q3: Can I apply for permanent residency immediately after graduation?
A3: Yes, after gaining Canadian work experience, you can apply for programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.

Q4: How important is networking in Canada?
A4: Extremely important. Many positions are filled through referrals or networking, so attending events and connecting online is key.

Q5: Which sectors have the highest demand for graduates in Canada?
A5: IT, healthcare, engineering, finance, and skilled trades currently have high demand across most provinces.

Conclusion
Building a career in Canada after graduation is very achievable with the right plan and persistence. Start by understanding the job market, gaining Canadian work experience, and networking effectively. Polish your resume, develop soft and technical skills, and be proactive in applying for jobs and programs. Remember, success won’t happen overnight, but consistent effort, preparation, and the willingness to learn will open doors.

Canada offers not just a job, but a career path with growth, stability, and international recognition. Take the first step today, and your future self will thank you.

Toronto – The Bustling Economic Hub

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and financial capital. If you plan to live here, you should expect higher costs in almost every aspect of life.

Housing
Housing in Toronto is expensive. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around CAD 2,200 per month, while outside the downtown area, prices drop to about CAD 1,700. Buying property? Expect the average home price to exceed CAD 1.1 million.

Food and Groceries
Groceries are fairly standard across Canada, but eating out in Toronto can be pricey. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around CAD 20, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant may cost CAD 80.

Transportation
Public transportation is convenient but not cheap. A monthly transit pass costs roughly CAD 156. Many residents rely on cars, which adds fuel, insurance, and parking costs.

Utilities and Internet
Basic utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, average around CAD 200 per month for a small apartment. Internet costs about CAD 75 per month.

Montreal – Cultural Heart of Quebec

Montreal has a vibrant culture, amazing food, and relatively lower living costs than Toronto.

Housing
Renting a one-bedroom apartment downtown costs around CAD 1,400, and outside the city center, it drops to about CAD 1,000. Buying a home is more affordable, with average prices around CAD 450,000.

Food and Groceries
Montreal is known for its cafes and poutine. A basic meal in a budget restaurant costs CAD 18, while a three-course meal for two is about CAD 70. Grocery prices are slightly lower than Toronto.

Transportation
Montreal has an extensive public transit system. A monthly pass costs CAD 90, making commuting much cheaper than in Toronto.

Utilities and Internet
Monthly utilities average CAD 180, while high-speed internet costs around CAD 65.

Vancouver – Nature Meets Urban Life

Vancouver is famous for its stunning natural beauty, mild climate, and outdoor lifestyle. But this comes at a price.

Housing
Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in Canada. A one-bedroom apartment downtown costs around CAD 2,300, and outside the center, CAD 1,800. The average home price exceeds CAD 1.2 million.

Food and Groceries
Groceries are slightly higher than the national average. A meal in a budget restaurant costs CAD 22, while a three-course meal for two is about CAD 85.

Transportation
Public transit is reliable. A monthly pass costs CAD 105. Owning a car adds extra costs, including insurance, which is higher than in most Canadian cities.

Utilities and Internet
Utilities average CAD 210 per month, and internet is around CAD 80.

Calgary – The Oil City Advantage

Calgary offers a balance between city life and affordable living, especially for families.

Housing
A one-bedroom apartment downtown costs around CAD 1,400, and outside downtown, about CAD 1,100. Home prices average CAD 500,000.

Food and Groceries
Dining out is cheaper than in Toronto or Vancouver. A basic meal costs CAD 18, and a three-course meal for two is about CAD 70.

Transportation
Calgary’s public transit is decent. A monthly pass costs CAD 100. Many residents drive, benefiting from lower fuel prices.

Utilities and Internet
Utilities average CAD 180 per month, and internet costs around CAD 70.

Ottawa – The Capital with Comfort

As Canada’s capital, Ottawa combines government jobs with cultural attractions.

Housing
Renting a one-bedroom apartment downtown costs CAD 1,600, and outside, CAD 1,300. Buying a home averages CAD 550,000.

Food and Groceries
Meals are moderately priced. Budget restaurants cost CAD 20, while mid-range dining for two is about CAD 75.

Transportation
Ottawa has a light rail and bus system. A monthly pass costs CAD 125.

Utilities and Internet
Average utilities cost CAD 190 per month, with internet around CAD 70.

Cost Comparison Table of Major Canadian Cities

Tips to Save Money in Canadian Cities

1. Choose Your Location Wisely – Living slightly outside the city center can save hundreds on rent.

2. Cook at Home – Eating out frequently increases expenses. Cooking at home reduces costs.

3. Use Public Transit – Owning a car in Canada is expensive; public transit is reliable in most cities.

4. Shop Smart – Grocery stores like No Frills, Walmart, or Costco offer discounts.

5. Look for Utilities Deals – Some internet and mobile providers offer bundled plans that save money.

FAQs About Living Costs in Canada

Q1: Is Canada expensive to live in?
Canada is generally more expensive than many countries, especially in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. But costs vary greatly depending on the city, lifestyle, and housing choices.

Q2: Which Canadian city is cheapest to live in?
Among the major cities, Montreal and Calgary are generally more affordable, particularly for housing and dining.

Q3: How much should I budget monthly to live in Toronto?
A single person might need CAD 3,000–3,500 per month, including rent, food, transportation, and utilities.

Q4: Does public transport save money in Canada?
Yes, using public transit instead of owning a car can save significant money on fuel, insurance, and maintenance.

Q5: Are utilities included in rent?
In Canada, it depends on the apartment. Some rentals include utilities, while others don’t. Always check before signing a lease.

Conclusion

Understanding the cost of living in Canadian cities helps you plan better, whether you are moving for work, study, or lifestyle. Toronto and Vancouver are expensive but offer vibrant city life. Montreal and Calgary provide more affordable options without compromising on opportunities. Ottawa balances work, culture, and comfort.

By planning wisely, managing your spending, and choosing the right city, living in Canada can be enjoyable and financially manageable. Remember, small savings in rent, food, and transport can make a big difference over time.

Understand Your Monthly Income and Expenses
Before you can control your spending, you need a clear picture of your finances. Start by listing all sources of income—this could be part-time jobs, scholarships, parental support, or even side hustles. Then, track all your monthly expenses.

Here’s a simple table to help:

This table gives you a clear snapshot of what’s coming in and going out. Tracking your money is the first step to taking control.

Prioritize Essential Expenses
When money is tight, it’s important to differentiate between needs and wants. Essentials like rent, groceries, utilities, and transport should come first. Non-essential spending, such as eating out, new gadgets, or entertainment subscriptions, should only be considered once essentials are covered.

Create a Realistic Budget
A budget doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small and realistic. Allocate money for essentials, savings, and some fun. A simple budgeting rule for students can be:

• 50% for essentials

• 20% for savings

• 20% for lifestyle and fun

• 10% for emergencies

Adjust percentages according to your situation. The key is consistency.

Use Student Discounts and Deals
Many businesses and online stores offer discounts specifically for students. Whether it’s food delivery, clothing, software, or public transport, student deals can save you hundreds of dollars a year. Always ask if a student discount is available before purchasing.

Cook at Home More Often
Eating out frequently can drain your budget quickly. Cooking at home is cheaper and often healthier. Start with simple meals like pasta, stir-fries, sandwiches, or salads. Batch cooking can save both time and money. For example, preparing meals for the week on Sunday can reduce last-minute fast food spending.

Use Public Transport or Walk ‍
Transport costs can sneak up on you. If possible, walk or cycle to classes. Public transport is usually cheaper than owning and maintaining a car. Some cities offer student passes at a discounted rate—definitely worth checking out.

Shop Smart
Grocery shopping strategically can save you a lot. Make a list before heading to the store and stick to it. Buy generic brands instead of expensive ones, and look for bulk deals. Avoid shopping when you’re hungry—it often leads to impulse purchases.

Save Small but Often
Even if you can only save a few dollars each week, it adds up over time. Consider keeping a small “emergency fund” to cover unexpected expenses like medical bills or textbooks. Saving regularly, no matter how small, creates a safety net and teaches discipline.

Limit Credit Card Use
Credit cards can be tempting, but they can lead to debt if not used carefully. If you have a credit card, use it only for essential purchases you can pay off immediately. Avoid late fees and high-interest charges—it’s easy to get trapped in a cycle of debt.

Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Entertainment
Students often think entertainment is expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Libraries, university events, student clubs, and online tutorials are excellent low-cost options. Even socializing doesn’t always need money; a picnic or movie night at home can be just as fun.

Track Your Spending Regularly
Tracking your expenses regularly helps you stay within budget. Use apps or even a simple notebook. Every dollar spent should be accounted for. Over time, you’ll notice spending patterns and can adjust accordingly.

Consider Part-Time Work or Side Hustles
If your schedule allows, part-time work or freelancing can supplement your income. Tutoring, content writing, or campus jobs are great options. Make sure the work doesn’t negatively affect your studies; balance is key.

Avoid Impulse Purchases
Impulse buying is a major student budget killer. Before purchasing anything non-essential, wait 24 hours. Often, the urge passes, and you save money. Ask yourself: “Do I really need this right now?”

Plan for the Future
Even as a student, it’s wise to think about long-term goals. Are you saving for tuition, a trip, or future studies? Allocating money to these goals early, even if small, creates good financial habits.

Simple Budget Example for a Student (Monthly)

This leaves room for flexibility if income fluctuates.

• Want better chances? Read tips to increase your scholarship chances in Canada — Read more

FAQs

Q: How much should a student save per month?
A: Ideally, save at least 10–20% of your monthly income. Even small amounts help build a safety net.

Q: Is it okay to use student loans for living expenses?
A: Only if absolutely necessary. Student loans should primarily cover tuition and educational costs. Misusing loans can lead to debt stress later.

Q: What’s the best way to avoid overspending?
A: Tracking expenses daily, setting a budget, and avoiding impulse purchases are key strategies. Apps and spreadsheets can help.

Q: How can I manage living expenses if I live in an expensive city?
A: Consider shared housing, public transport, cooking at home, and taking advantage of student discounts. Budgeting becomes even more crucial in expensive areas.

Q: Are part-time jobs worth it for students?
A: Yes, if they don’t interfere with your studies. Part-time work not only provides extra income but also valuable work experience.

Conclusion

Managing living expenses as a student is a learning process. It teaches discipline, planning, and responsibility. By understanding your income, prioritizing expenses, cooking at home, using discounts, saving regularly, and avoiding unnecessary debt, you can live comfortably without financial stress. Remember, even small, consistent efforts make a huge difference over time. With careful planning, student life can be enjoyable and financially manageable at the same time.

Why Students Should Consider Part-Time Jobs

Part-time jobs aren’t just about earning money. Sure, covering your tuition or living costs is important, but there are other benefits too:

• Work Experience: Employers love candidates who have real-world work experience. A part-time job adds value to your resume.

• Skill Development: Jobs like customer service or tutoring teach communication, time management, and problem-solving skills.

• Networking Opportunities: Working part-time lets you meet professionals and build connections for future careers.

• Financial Independence: You get to manage your own money, which is a great learning experience.

Top Part-Time Jobs for Students in Canada

Here’s a list of popular part-time jobs that students can consider:

Job Title	Average Hourly Pay	Key Skills	Typical Hours	Pros
Retail Associate	CAD 14–18	Communication, Customer Service	10–20 hrs/week	Flexible shifts, tips possible
Barista / Cafe Worker	CAD 13–17	Customer Service, Multitasking	10–15 hrs/week	Fun environment, coffee perks
Library Assistant	CAD 14–20	Organization, Attention to Detail	8–12 hrs/week	Quiet, good for studying
Food Delivery / Driver	CAD 15–25	Time Management, Driving	Flexible	High tips, flexible hours
Freelance Tutor	CAD 20–35	Teaching, Communication	Flexible	Can work from home, high pay
Research Assistant	CAD 15–25	Research, Analysis	10–20 hrs/week	Relevant experience for academic careers
Customer Support / Call Centre	CAD 15–20	Communication, Patience	10–20 hrs/week	Develops communication skills
Event Staff / Promotion Jobs	CAD 15–25	Energy, Teamwork	Event-based	Fun, social, short-term commitment
Campus Ambassador	CAD 12–18	Marketing, Social Media	Flexible	Build networking skills, on-campus perks
Pet Sitter / Dog Walker	CAD 12–25	Responsibility, Time Management	Flexible	Fun, stress-relieving

Tips for Finding the Right Part-Time Job

Finding a good part-time job requires strategy. Here are some tips:

1. Start Early: Don’t wait until the semester is in full swing. Apply a few weeks before classes start.

2. Use Campus Resources: Universities often have job boards or student employment offices.

3. Check Online Platforms: Websites like Indeed, Workopolis, and LinkedIn list many student-friendly jobs.

4. Consider Your Schedule: Pick jobs that fit around your classes and study times.

5. Leverage Your Skills: If you are good at writing, tutoring, or social media, look for jobs in those areas for higher pay.

6. Be Flexible: Sometimes, taking a temporary or seasonal job can lead to long-term opportunities.

Jobs That Can Be Done Remotely

Remote jobs are becoming increasingly popular among students. Some remote opportunities include:

• Freelance Writing : Write articles, blog posts, or copywriting content.

• Virtual Assistant: Help businesses with emails, scheduling, or social media.

• Online Tutoring: Teach languages, math, or science online.

• Data Entry Jobs: Simple, flexible, and can often be done at home.

How to Balance Work and Studies

Working part-time can be demanding, but with some planning, it’s manageable:

• Set Priorities: Always put your academics first.

• Create a Schedule: Allocate time for work, classes, assignments, and rest.

• Avoid Overworking: Don’t take more hours than you can handle. Stress can affect both work and studies.

• Use Tools: Apps like Google Calendar, Trello, or Notion help manage tasks efficiently.

Legal Rules for Students Working in Canada

International students in Canada should be aware of work regulations:

• On-Campus Jobs: Students can work on campus without a work permit.

• Off-Campus Jobs: Students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks.

• Co-op / Internship: If your program requires a co-op or internship, make sure you have a co-op work permit.

High-Paying Part-Time Jobs for Students

Some part-time jobs pay better than average and are ideal if you want to maximize income without working too many hours:

• Tutoring – Especially in STEM subjects. Pay can go up to CAD 35/hour.

• Freelancing – Writing, graphic design, or programming projects.

• Tech Support Jobs – Many companies hire students for part-time tech support roles.

Benefits Beyond Money

Besides earning cash, part-time jobs help students develop essential life skills:

• Time Management

• Communication and Networking

• Problem-Solving Skills

• Responsibility and Independence

  

Conclusion

Part-time jobs are an excellent way for students in Canada to gain experience, meet new people, and earn money while studying. Choosing the right job depends on your skills, interests, and schedule. Whether it’s working on campus, freelancing online, or delivering food, there are plenty of opportunities available. Remember to prioritize your studies, plan wisely, and make the most of your student life.

FAQs

Q1: How many hours can international students work in Canada?
International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester and full-time during scheduled breaks.

Q2: Do students need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work?
Yes, a SIN is required for all students to work legally in Canada.

Q3: Are on-campus jobs better than off-campus jobs?
On-campus jobs are convenient and flexible, often ideal for students with busy schedules. Off-campus jobs might pay better and provide more diverse experiences.

Q4: Can I work part-time and study full-time?
Yes, many students do it successfully. The key is to manage time carefully and avoid taking too many work hours.

Q5: Which part-time jobs offer the most experience for future careers?
Jobs related to your field of study, like research assistant, tutoring, or internships, provide valuable experience for your future career.

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