Overview
International students pursuing study programs at Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) in Canada requiring mandatory work placements or internships must apply for co-op work permits alongside Canadian Study Permits. Co-op work permits differ from standard work authorizations included in study permits.
Co-op work permits apply exclusively to work essential to study programs. Other employment opportunities, including internships unrelated to educational establishments not contributing to program credits, fall under standard study permit work authorizations. Students uncertain about permit requirements should consult program advisers.
Valid study permits represent prerequisites for co-op work permit applications.
Work Experience Essential to Program of Study
Essential work experiences involve program credits necessary for graduation. Paid or unpaid employment undertaken for graduation purposes requires co-op work permits.
- Educational institution authorization represents prerequisite for co-op work permits
- Work experiences cannot exceed half of study program duration
- Essential work includes field work, clinical work, practicums, volunteer work, paid/unpaid internships
Eligibility Criteria
International students qualify for co-op work permits under following conditions:
Valid Study Permit
Current study permit represents fundamental requirement
Mandatory Work Placement
Program must require work placement for credits
Institutional Authorization
Letter from educational institution confirming work placement necessity
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