Advertisements

How to Succeed In Canada As An International Student

OODERA Travel Tips 166

Hundreds of thousands of international students come to Canada each year to better their lives. Whether you plan to stay and work in Canada and use education as a pathway to permanent residency, success as a student will set you up for a bright future.

GET FREE TRAVEL TIPS HERE

We spoke with some former international students in Canada and asked them to share insights and tips that helped them succeed to help you on your academic journey.

This article includes:

Advertisements

International students’ budgeting and financial planning

juggling studies, work, and recreation

Creating your support network

Maintaining one’s health

Putting yourself in a position for professional success

A guide to achieving success as an international student in Canada

Student Success Suggestions.

 

International students’ budgeting and financial planning

“As an international student, the money you bring from home can quickly run out if you don’t have a proper budget.

“Having a financial plan in place allows you to spend and save money wisely,” says Lucas, who moved to Canada from Brazil in 2017.

Planning ahead of time can help you avoid financial concerns while studying in Canada.

A good student budget is essential for keeping track of expenses, planning savings, and ensuring you have enough money to cover any unexpected expenses.

 

Building a credit history is a critical component of financial success in Canada.

Even as a student, you may need a good credit score to rent an apartment, get a cell phone, or get a car loan.

You can get a head start on your financial goals by opening a student bank account and obtaining a credit card.

Pay your credit card bills on time, as late payments can result in steep penalties.

If your study permit allows you to work part-time, you must also obtain a Social Security Number (SIN).

Schedule a meeting with a financial advisor to develop a financial plan to secure your future.

 

juggling studies, work, and recreation

“It is critical to know what you want to achieve while studying in Canada.

Set aside time for everything you want to do, whether it’s academic success, getting a head start on your professional development, or honing a talent,” advises Siang, who came to Canada as an international student from Malaysia in 2008.

“Don’t forget to explore your new city and enjoy your time as an international student. “Canada has a lot to offer, and each new experience has the potential to become a memorable one,” he adds.

Many international students find it difficult to balance their academic and extracurricular activities.

Create a schedule based on your course schedule that allows time for everything you want to do, such as studying, networking, socializing, commuting to university, and working part-time.

“If your study permit allows you to work part-time, do some research to see if you will have enough time to work.

“Contact your university coordinator or former students for information on course schedules, and plan your schedule accordingly,” Lucas suggests.

Try not to take on more work than you can handle, and always set aside time for your studies and well-being.

 

Creating your support network

A good support system can keep you motivated and give you the encouragement and direction you need to keep working toward your goals.

Many international students in Canada experience homesickness during their first few months because they have left friends and family behind.

While connecting with your local community may appear to be the simplest way to make social connections, there are numerous benefits to broadening your support network.

 

A diverse social circle will introduce you to new ideas and perspectives, allowing you to broaden your horizons.

Speaking with people from outside your community can also help you improve your English language and communication skills.

Many universities have student clubs and societies where you can meet people who share your interests or find like-minded people.

As you prepare for your future career, a larger social circle will translate into a larger professional network.

 

Maintaining one’s health

With a schedule jam-packed with classes, work, and social obligations, international students may neglect their physical and mental well-being.

Pay attention to your diet and make sure you’re eating nutritious, healthy meals. Limit your intake of junk food and sugar, and avoid snacking when you are stressed.

Make time in your schedule for exercise, hobbies, and rejuvenating activities.

Many universities provide gyms and fitness classes to students.

If going to the gym or participating in sports isn’t your thing, consider walking or riding your bike to class.

Remember, there is no substitute for a good night’s sleep.

While you may have to work late or study all night on occasion, try not to make it a habit.

Sleep deprivation can make it difficult to focus and learn in class, as well as have a negative impact on your health.

 

Putting yourself in a position for professional success

Keep in mind that your education is a means to an end. As you study, keep your ultimate goal in mind.

If you intend to work in Canada after finishing your studies, you must first learn about and prepare for the Canadian job market.

Building your professional network will be a big part of that.

Some international students in Canada believe that there will be plenty of time for professional development after their education is completed.

The Canadian job market is competitive, and the sooner you begin preparing for it, the easier it will be to transition.

 

Here are some pointers from former international students who have gone before you:

 

Master the art of networking.

“In Canada, networking is critical to academic and professional success. “Many international students are hesitant to talk to people, often because they are not confident in their English,” says Ke, an international student from China who arrived in Canada in 2019.

“It is critical to overcome your apprehension and push yourself to network with people who can help you on your path to success.”

Professional social networks, such as LinkedIn, are excellent places to connect with people who have traveled similar paths or who hold professional positions to which you aspire.

“Canadians are open to LinkedIn connection requests.

“By having coffee chats with my LinkedIn connections, I learned a lot about the local work culture and got some great tips to improve my job applications,” adds Ke.

 

Investigate internship and co-op opportunities.

Summer internships and co-op placements are excellent ways to sample the industry and put your skills to use. “As part of their curriculum, some study programs include work experience.

“Depending on your major, your academic advisors may be able to help you find internship or co-op opportunities,” Siang says.

 

You must apply for a co-op or intern work permit and may be required to submit a copy of your study permit as well as a letter from your school stating that the internship is required for your degree.

 

Volunteering allows you to expand your network.

If your study permit or university schedule prevents you from working, you can gain Canadian experience and expand your network by volunteering.

Search for volunteer opportunities on Volunteer Canada or contact local non-profits to see if they have any openings.

“As a student, I spent my weekends volunteering at events and industry conferences. I used those platforms to network with people, share my background, and make industry connections.

“Some people were open to having longer conversations with me and guiding me toward my career path,” Lucas says.

 

Find a part-time job.

“Part-time jobs are not only a way for many international students to earn extra money, but they also help you grow your network and gain work experience in Canada,” says Ke.

If your study permit allows for part-time employment, you can choose to work on or off campus.

Find work that allows you to hone your skills, collaborate with people who inspire you, or apply your knowledge.

When looking for post-graduate jobs, having prior work experience on your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates.

 

Get ready for the job market.

There will be numerous opportunities to build your professional network, hone your skills, research companies you’d like to work with, and even gain hands-on work experience while studying in Canada.

 

Information symbol Information:

Learn more about preparing for a job search in Canada by reading our career guide.

“Take advantage of the resources provided by your university.

“International students can take advantage of free language classes and workshops to help them improve their English,” says Ke.

“Check with your university’s career services center to see if they offer professional development resources and support to help you build a resume and prepare for interviews,” Siang adds.

Do some research on how to write a Canadian-style resume and practice answering common interview questions.

 

As an international student in Canada, your success extends beyond academic achievements.

Your student years are an opportunity to find your place in your new community, learn new skills, and chart a course for a successful career and life in Canada.

Advertisements

166 Comments

    • Je vois pas quoi je ne suis pas tout la contraction vers la drogue je suis heureux là-bas je prends pas le droit je veux que je respecte tout tranquille là-bas car là-bas Canada

      Reply

      • Hi my name is mosab agouz m from Sudan m 30 yes old but now I live in Egypt because for the thing that has happened to the Sudans people that why like coming here to have good life I need to study and work I’m really need to have a good life to me to my family because I’m really want to working and study I live my high school when I was 20 and then I don’t have a time to study again because I work to help my family now I like I don’t have time but if you can help me please help me for this because I need to work and study I need to be the good person alive I mean my mom and dad be proud of me because you know now my country is in trouble and I cannot do anything there perhaps that a lot of reason I left my country because if you want to share with you I can share because LGBT community I’m sorry for that I’m saying but that the reason that I cannot be in there my control again please help me with

        Reply

  2. Yes, of course, there is no work, living, and future. I am 30 years old. I want to work outside the country. I am from Iraq, now in Turkey. I want to see Europe. I want to travel as soon as possible

    Reply

  3. Yes, of course, there is no work, living, and the future. I work, everything is a public worker, I need a job, I want to work in a company, any job

    Reply

    • مرحبا انا خالد ومقيم في تركيا اريد الهجرة إلى كندا من اجل العمل وحيات كريمةوقد هربة من الحرب الموجودة في بلدي

      Reply

      • مرحبا أنا أسمي محمد محمد من سورية محافظة حلب منطقة عفرين
        انا حالينا ساكنا بتركيا محافظة أزمير
        أنا متزوجة ولدي ثلاثة أطفال صغار بالعمر أعمارهم الأول 4 سنوات
        والثانية 2 سنوات والثالث عمرها 7اشهر بالمنزل أعمل لوحدي
        إريد حياة أفضل للعائلي لأنو
        نعيش حالينا ظروف معاشية صعبة
        بسبب غلاء الأسعار وأجور المنزل المرتفعة بتركيا والتضخم الكبير بجميع القطاعات العامة

        Reply

  16. Por ahora tengo 20 años y soy de Venezuela, siempre quise estar en Canadá y ahora quiero está oportunidad de estudiar y trabajar allá en Canadá

    Reply

    • Je suis inch’Allah Canada je respecte le travail va voir au Canada je suis la régression du Canada les règles du Canada je suis

      Reply

  18. Canadien bienvenue à Canada oui je veux Canada pour j’ai besoin d’aller au Canada parce que j’ai beaucoup à faire à Canada je suis un technicien que je rêve pour aller à Canada pour me faire le technicien tout je suis charpentier je connais installer tous les cuisines je fais les tours tout seul que c’est que je vais pouvoir aller au Canada

    Reply

  19. Parce que belle ville de Canada ça m’a pris pour aller là-bas au Canada c’est que je cherche le solution depuis 2015 je suis avec je cherche les solutions pour comment faire pour avoir pour aller au Canada je cherche je cherche tous les jours mais aujourd’hui je suis trouvé mais maintenant je peux m’inscrire en live je fais comment je suis là je suis je m’appelle Mustapha Ibrahima je suis au Cameroun à Yaoundé

    Reply

  20. De l’amour de Canada dans mon cœur je vais voir Canada tous les jours tous les jours je vais au Canada oui tout le temps je suis je vais je fais comment pour aller au Canada voilà me dire qu’il m’a offert que je suis au Canada oui je rêve tous les jours à Canada tous les jours je rêve au Canada 🇨🇦🇨🇦

    Reply

  21. J’ai l’amour du Canada je suis au Canada tous les jours je rêve que un jour je serai au Canada mais grâce à dieu je comprends je serai inch’Allah au Canada ça que je rêve tous les jours le rêve je suis technicien charpentier

    Reply

    • مرحبا أنا أسمي محمد محمد من سورية محافظة حلب منطقة عفرين
      انا حالينا ساكنا بتركيا محافظة أزمير
      أنا متزوجة ولدي ثلاثة أطفال صغار بالعمر أعمارهم الأول 4 سنوات
      والثانية 2 سنوات والثالث عمرها 7اشهر بالمنزل أعمل لوحدي
      إريد حياة أفضل للعائلي لأنو
      نعيش حالينا ظروف معاشية صعبة
      بسبب غلاء الأسعار وأجور المنزل المرتفعة بتركيا والتضخم الكبير بجميع القطاعات العامة

      Reply

  28. On est ensemble tous on peut se voir là-bas il y a de grosses de dieu OK merci beaucoup pour vous pour me soutenir jusqu’à la fin de causerie on est ensemble ciao

    Reply

  32. 99% I want to study in Canada and if impossible became possible I will use the destination in order to beault my future

    Reply

    • اريد الهجره بسبب حرب في بلاده الجنسيه سوري ولاجئ سوري في تركيا واصبحت بسبب الزلزال فالعمل ولا بلا ماوى ولا بيت اصبحت اسكن بالخيمه او بالشادر ولدي اربع اطفال اريد الهجره الى كندا لاني احب شعب الكندي والدوله الكنديه ارجو ان تساعديني لو سمحتي ولدي اربعه اطفال انا متزوج رجاء تساعدوني

      Reply

  36. I want to study and I have a profession as a kitchen chef I am 25 years old. I live in Turkey. I want to emigrate because of the earthquake

    Reply

  37. My name is Ali Osman IAM living in refugees camp and seek for basic scholarship to aid me in feature

    Reply

    • مرحبا انا يوسف عثمان احب اكون مقيم في كندا مكنسيان حصادات مهنه لدي ثلاث اطفال ثلاث صبيان بالاصل الكردي جنسيه سوريه

      Reply

  47. انا اسمي عامر من سوريا اريد اكمل دراسة في كندا واعيش فيها في الأمان واستقرار ونخلص من الحروب الفي سوريا والمشاكل وارجو منكم قرأت طلبي وتقبلوني لجوئ على كندا وشكرا جزيلا لكم

    Reply

  48. وعايش بتركية حالية ومعيشة صعبة جداً وابي توفي ولظروف صعبة جداً واريد المساعدة منكم ولجوئ على كندا حلمي اصل كندا وشكراً لكم

    Reply

    • My name is Ayman from Yemen. I want to travel to Canada to complete my studies in Canada and live there in safety and stability away from the wars, crises and problems we are currently living in Yemen. I hope you read my request and accept me as asylum in Canada. Thank you very much.

      Reply

  56. انا عمل شغل ايا شي انا معلم الخياطة و غير ماعندي ولا صنع اريد طلع ع كندا بي إسنا عمل

    Reply

    • My name is Ayman from Yemen. I want to travel to Canada in order to complete my studies in Canada and live there in safety and stability away from the wars, crises and problems we are currently living in Yemen. I hope you read my request and accept me as asylum in Canada. Thank you very much.

      Reply

  73. مرحبا أنا عبدالمجيد حسن من دولة تشاد تشاد لها حرب في القبيلة ولها مشكل كثيرة اوريد العيش في كندا العش هناك افضل بكثير وشكرا

    Reply

  81. Hi good morning,from Nigeria actually am really excited because I like Canada and want to study there, I finished my secondary school since 2018, but do to the matter of financial difficulties I did not continue but if I get this opportunity to study abroad and also in Canada is just like my dreams has start becoming true thank you so much for this opportunity.

    Reply

  88. Jaime Canada please je besoin de venir au Canada pour travailler et aide ma family please aide moi a realised me rêve

    Reply

    • وانا مصطفى يؤسف اريد ان اعيش في كندا با امان اريد اعيش اولادي با امان اريد ادرس اولادي وبحث عن حيات افضل عندي 7 اولاد والمعيشة هنا صعبه اتمنه ارد فوري و

      Reply

      • اريد ان اعيش في كندا باتمان اريد اولادي باامان هنا يمن حرب عزما اريد ادرس أنا و اولادي6 وبحث حياة أفضل والمعيشة يمن صعبه اتمنى اريد فوري

        Reply

  93. My name is: Chala Abdissa Terfa from the Ethiopia.
    Canada is the best economic reforms in the recently.
    Y
    The most Democratic States in the world’s.
    I want to work a fruit packing b/ c of I have experience in Agricultural expert.

    Reply

  95. انا محمد نور محمد اريد الهجرة الي كندا للدراسة لان درسة في كندا متورة

    Reply

  105. I need to go to Canada to study to build my future good that is why I love Canada since I’m small I want to go to Canada to study that is what in my mind

    Reply

  107. I want to make a pilgrimage Canada is a beautiful country My favorite country is my mother’s favorite country I want a tourist visa Thank you

    Reply

  108. I’m Muhammad Naji Yusuf Ibraahim I have family 1 boy 3 girls and my wife student

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.