Career resources for international students

Career Planning

The steps and process for career planning varies for each unique student based on their chosen career path. Selecting an appropriate degree and major is done most effectively once students have an understanding of their options and have researched occupations. It's important to note that the representation of industries and jobs in Canada may be different from a student's home country, along with an occupation's scope of practice, salary, outlook. Knowing where one wants to live and work after graduation can be an important career planning factor for all students. International students should also note the citizenship or residency requirements that are in place for some degree programs.

Start now! Plan for Career Success!

Recommendations for students:

Explore & Plan

  • Unsure about what occupations and industries suit you and your interests, meet a Career Consultant!
  • If you've chosen an educational pathway or have ideas, view the course calendar to learn the program requirements for those degree program(s). 
  • Participate in social activities and learn about Canadian culture. Volunteer on campus!
  • Research the industry and jobs you want to work in after graduation; ensure you are on the right degree track! If you are undecided about your career path and want to learn about options that suit you, meet with a Career Consultant.
  • Build your communication skills to aid your academic and career success.
  • Start to develop your Canadian resumé and learn how to write a cover letter.
  • Seek career planning advice from professionals in the field – meet a Career Mentor!

Gain Experience, Build Skills

  • Build professional skills, career management abilities and a list of references (supervisors who can speak to your work ethic) through part-time employment and volunteering.
  • Consider registering for Co-op and explore opportunities to meet employers. Attend Career Fairs, networking events and employer info sessions. Learn about industry expectations!
  • Apply for summer jobs that provide industry exposure and career-related skills.

Engage with Industry

  • Work part-time or volunteer with the organizations or within the industry you’d like to be employed with after graduation.
  • Join professional and industry associations as a Student Member.
  • Polish your job search materials - resumé / CV and cover letter - and tailor them to your industry.
  • If you plan to pursue or continue with Graduate Studies, build connections with professors, potential advisors and schools of interest.

Finding a Job in Canada

Finding work in Canada can be a difficult process for domestic and international students alike. Finding a career-related job after graduation is much easier if students have related experience and skills. This experience comes from working and volunteering while studying. Canadian employers want employees to possess the educational requirements to do the job, as well as related experience gained from working and volunteering.

Career Services can assist students looking to gain career-related experience. We can help you:

It is important for students to begin this process early in their university studies. Waiting until graduation puts students at a huge disadvantage. Competition is very strong for employment opportunities so candidates need to be highly qualified. Job applications often require students to provide a list of references, usually previous work or volunteer supervisors, who can speak to their skills and abilities.

Working & Volunteering in Canada

Many international students are interested in working while they study in Canada, to gain job experience and make connections with employers. To ensure that you stay legal, there are some guidelines you need to follow.

If you have questions, please book an appointment with an international student advisor by contacting the International Centre.

Information about working on or off campus, as well as volunteering, can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website:

Information about working in Canada after you graduate can also be found on the IRCC website:

Work in Canada after you graduate: Who can apply

Co-operative Education

Co-operative Education Programs at the University of Manitoba provide students with the opportunity to combine practical paid work experiences with their education.

Some benefits for students include:

  • Work experience that will increase your employability after graduation
  • Earning competitive wages while applying classroom learning to real world situations

For more information on co-operative education options. It’s also important that international students review the information on the IRCC website about working as a Co-Op student and applying for the Co-Op Work Permit:

Work as a co-op student or intern