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Co-operative Education

International students

As a student from outside Canada, you can take part in co-op to gain paid work experience, including roles with Canadian and international companies.

Working in Canada

As part of your application for a study permit or study permit extension, you should include a letter from your UVic Co-op, internship, or practicum confirming that work is required for your program.

Co-op and study permits

As of April 1, 2026, international students must do the following in order to take part in co-op:

  • Hold a valid study permit with remarks indicating that you may work/may accept employment on campus.This study permit can only be used for work that takes place on campus, and for co-op work terms that are part of your degree program (regardless of the work placement location), AND
  • Have a letter from UVic Co-op and Career Services that confirms that you are enrolled in the co-op program (this will be issued to you), AND
  • Be registered as a full-time student for the duration of all co-op work placements

If you were issued a co-op work permit before April 1, 2026, you can use this as long as it has not expired.

If your study permit expires before you complete their degree, you'll need to extend it. To request a new co-op letter, email your co-op program with your name and student number. You will need to provide your new study permit to your co-op program when you receive it.

Working outside Canada

Doing a co-op term outside of Canada lets you:

Learn what's involved in doing co-op work terms outside of Canada, including in your home country.

Get support

As an international student you are supported by your co-op program.

For additional support, you can also connect with our accessibility and inclusion co-op coordinator, Niels Melis De Lamper, who also supports students from international pathways.

Other support at UVic

There are many ways that UVic can support your journey. Consider: