Everything You Need to Know About Working on Campus in Canada

A clear overview of co-op, permits, hours, and on-campus job options for international students.

Working while you study can be a great way to earn extra income! If you’re an international student looking to work in Canada, there are a few important things to understand before starting your job search.

Working in Canada while you study

Waterloo offers the world’s leading co-op program, connecting students with over 8,000 employers. You can make between $9,600 and $22,800 per four-month work term in Canada, which is a great way to help cover education and living expenses while gaining hands-on experience. If you’re enrolled in a co-op program at the University of Waterloo, you will need a co-op work permit to work in Canada. While co-op is a popular option, it’s not the only way to work in Canada during your studies.

If you hold a valid post-secondary study permit and are registered as a full-time student, you may be eligible to work part-time in Canada without an additional work permit.

Why on-campus jobs are a great option

Off-campus work is limited to 24 hours per week, whereas on-campus work is not subject to this limit. On-campus jobs are a popular choice because they offer flexibility and are often tailored with students in mind.

On-campus job opportunities at Waterloo

Work-study programs

Work-study is a Waterloo program for full-time students with financial need and can be a great way to gain experience while earning income. Positions are available across a variety of departments on campus and allow you to earn up to $2,000 CAD per term.

Be a student ambassador

Student ambassadors represent Waterloo and share their personal experiences with visitors from around the world through tours and by working at large events like Fall and March Open House, the Ontario Universities’ Fair, and You @ Waterloo Day. You get to be involved in the experience of many students and be part of a wonderful team!

Student services on campus

With dozens of student services across campus, there are many jobs available to students. These can include working at the library circulation desk, refereeing intramural sports, or supporting customers at the W Store. These roles offer the chance to work alongside other students while contributing to a welcoming campus experience.

Work in residence

If you plan to live in residence, Campus Housing offers several employment opportunities. Some positions may include front desk assistants, peer leaders, residence engagement leaders, and undergraduate dons. Most roles are paid hourly, while the undergraduate don position is compensated through residence fee reductions and funds on your student card.

Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA)

WUSA offers a variety of paid jobs and volunteer opportunities each term. You can work part-time with WUSA’s businesses, student services, or marketing and communications teams.

Make the most of campus life

Those are just some of the opportunities to work on campus in Canada! Canada is a great place to work while you study. With flexible on-campus jobs, valuable co-op opportunities, and support available to you, international students have many ways to gain experience, earn income, and make the most of campus life.