Tips for International Students Looking For Work For The 2024/2025 School Year

The Labour Force Survey (LFS) data reveals that the job market for students has become more competitive, with the unemployment rate rising to 16.7%—the highest it has been since 2012, excluding the pandemic years. For international students, this job market can present additional hurdles, but with the right approach, there are still opportunities to be found. Here’s how. 

Base Your Study Location On Employment Data

The unemployment rate has increased for students across all age groups, but the impact isn’t uniform across the country. Some provinces have better job prospects for students than others. For example:

• Prince Edward Island saw a relatively low unemployment rate of 8.1% for students in August 2024.
• New Brunswick had a rate of 9.3%, also below the national average.

In contrast, students in Ontario and British Columbia faced much higher unemployment rates, reaching 19.5% and 18.4%, respectively.

If you’re open to studying anywhere in Canada, you may have a better chance of landing a job if you choose to study in provinces like Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Manitoba.

Leverage Online and Gig Economy Opportunities

In a competitive job market, traditional employment isn’t the only option. Explore gig economy platforms where you can take on freelance, temporary, or remote jobs. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or even local job boards can help you find part-time gigs in writing, graphic design, tutoring, and more. These opportunities might not be as stable as traditional roles but can provide valuable experience and income. 

Remember, your freelance work will count towards your weekly hours so don’t exceed your maximum allowable hours with your freelance work – and remember to keep track of your freelance hours in case IRCC seeks proof of your compliance.

Tap into University Career Services

Many universities and colleges offer career services that can help students find jobs. These services can help you navigate local job markets, connect with potential employers, and even help polish your resume and interview skills. Additionally, look for job fairs, workshops, and networking events hosted by your school to connect with employers directly. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of personal connections. Talk to professors, classmates, or family members who might know of available jobs, even if they’re temporary or part-time, and use LinkedIn to network too.

Check out this webinar on Finding a Job As A Newcomer in Canada

Stay Updated on Work Regulations

As an international student, it’s essential to stay informed about work regulations tied to your study permit. Recent announcements suggest students may be permitted to work up to 24 hours per week during school terms BUT these are not yet in effect.

Breaching your work hour allowances come with serious consequences. Consider signing up for our newsletter for news about immigration updates in Canada. 

Focus on In-Demand Sectors

While traditional student jobs in retail and hospitality may be harder to find, certain sectors are still actively hiring. For example, the health care sector, logistics, and IT continue to grow. If you have skills that align with these industries or are willing to acquire new certifications, your chances of finding work will increase significantly. Some of these roles also offer remote work options, which could make balancing work and study easier.

Final Thoughts

While 2024 has presented significant challenges and uncertainty for international students seeking employment, there are still ways to navigate the tough job market. By following the tips in this post, you can increase your chances of finding meaningful work. You can also check out our jobs board for opportunities. 

Remember, persistence and adaptability are key in uncertain times, and each experience can contribute to long-term career growth.