International students can benefit from rewarding learning experiences. Discover resources available at York SCS, and how to make the most of your Canada student visa.
Table of Contents
A Dream to Study and Work in Canada
Get the Basics Right
Do the Math
Go for On-Campus Jobs
Prioritize Mental Health
Networking is Key
Stay Active
Final Remarks
The York School of Continuing Studies building where classes take place. There are bare trees and a road with traffic signals in the foreground.
Carefully review Canada study visa requirements and verify the accuracy and completeness of all documents before submitting them to IRCC. When waiting for their updates, decide if you want to live on or off-campus during your time in university. If convenience is a priority, I recommend applying for residence at The Quad, a student housing community in York. This is because classes are within walking distance, and you can easily access most transit stops nearby for a hassle-free commute.
While foreign students prefer colleges for short programs, I recommend York as it is one of the best universities in Canada for international students. The idea is to target specialized learning to meet your long-term career goals.
An infographic maps 6 steps for international students to take when studying in Canada. From ascending to descending order, they include selecting a program, preparing funds, reviewing visa requirements, planning for accommodation, taking notes, and maintaining focus.
Admittedly, I couldn’t break my habit of converting Canadian dollars to Pakistani currency whenever I paid my bills or went grocery shopping. So, imagine my surprise when I calculated the figures and immediately concluded that everything was expensive.
According to Yocket, an educational consultancy, it costs $880 monthly, minus rent, for a single student in Canada as of 2024. These numbers vary by location because I live near Keele & Finch, North York, and pay $800 as rent, averaging $1,150 with food, Wi-Fi, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses.
Here’s what you can do for maximum savings:
Managing money abroad can be difficult as students are often concerned about running short of cash. Check if you are eligible for any scholarships, and if you plan to enroll in York U’s SCS, search for grants, bursaries, or other financial incentives at the post-graduate level.
Your study permit allows you to find part-time employment, subject to certain criteria. Research summer or internship opportunities on York U’s portal, and engage with counsellors at the Career Lounge in case of any doubts or questions. Search for jobs in your field and make a CV with your credentials. Also, you can even apply for a part-time job as a cashier or server at the restaurants in York Lanes.
Next, consult with instructors, program coordinators and student leaders during your orientation at York U. They have valuable insights into Canada’s job market, so utilize this opportunity to interact with them.
A sign with the words 'Keele Campus' and 'York Boulevard'. In the foreground, a boulevard lined with trees surrounds the campus.
The 2022 ISB Survey reveals that limited access to support, study-related concerns, and coping with stress cause mental health issues among international students.
Relocating is a big decision, and we respond differently when we do not have access to the same support as domestic students. Feeling lonely and homesick is common when we travel afar to start anew. This can cause mental health issues and we cannot manage our course loads if we’re struggling with anxiety or depression.
As a York U student, you can visit the Appletree Centre at York Lanes for medical care and interact with staff at the Student Counselling, Health, and Wellbeing department.
The entrance to the Appletree Medical Centre in York Lanes. There is a glass entryway with people inside the lobby area.
Introverts like me may not like leaving their comfort zone to make new friends without overwhelming themselves. Still, it’s necessary if you are planning to study and work in Canada. Socialize during weekends, schedule study sessions with peers at the student centers or Scott Library, and visit the Break Room.
Attend career fairs and participate in workplace activities for team building. More importantly, build a strong presence on LinkedIn and ask to connect with industry leaders and coaches. Look at the jobs that HR executives and recruiters post to determine what matches your skills and interests. Sign up for free LinkedIn Learning courses to polish your CV and increase your chances of finding a job after graduation.
Never neglect your well-being, no matter how busy you get. Become a member of an athletic club or join the Tait McKenzie Fitness Center. Walk and jog when possible instead of taking the TTC, and explore bustling locations like Yonge-Dundas Square to meet your daily step goal.
Alternatively, go cycling on bike lanes and trails in the city to reduce your carbon footprint. This will do wonders for your mood and energy levels.
There are no shortcuts; hard work and perseverance are the ingredients to success if you wish to study and work in Canada. Stay optimistic, be ready to accept challenges at York’s SCS, and expect practical learning throughout your journey.