The paid co-op work experience portion is an important part of the practical side of this program. This is where the student applies the theoretical lessons learned in our academic classes to the real world. It is designed to give the student experience in a Canadian work setting that supports the learning objectives of their class.

Over the course of the academic program, co-op students will take a four-week Job Search course. This course will run in the afternoon and prepare them for the co-op section. It will help students with researching employment opportunities, understanding their own strengths and weaknesses and building a professional image.

Throughout the academic and co-op portions of this program you will receive the support from our Co-Op Coordinator who will work with you to help find a suitable work opportunity and assist you to successfully complete the co-op portion of the program. At the end of the work experience, the student is required to come back to IGK and complete their two-week Capstone portion of this program before graduating.

The salary depends on the company, the type of job, and previous work experience and studies. Generally, the more education and professional experience that someone has, the higher the wage can be. Earning the minimum wage during the academic period, students typically make between $ 900 and $ 1,000 Canadian dollars per month. During the co-op period, students can earn between $ 1800 and $ 2000 Canadian dollars per month.

Although finding employment for the co-op portion is student’s responsibility, IGK supports students in topics such as: writing a Canadian resume, preparation of cover letter, talking to employers, how to apply, etc.

In addition, we have monthly workshops about how job interviews are like, where to look for jobs and what the Canadian work culture is like. In the same way, we have a job bank because companies know that we always have students looking for jobs. IGK is often the connection between these companies and the students.

No, jobs for the co-op need to be related to the program you are studying. Please talk with one of our advisors to see if a job could be used for a co-op.

Co-ops must be approved by IGK before you start. Please talk to Career Service for more information.

Yes, students can work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the whole program period.

Depending on your program, the co-op is either 300 hours, 500 hours, 750 hours or 1000 hours. To complete the co-op, students need at least 80% of their co-op hours.

Please talk to Career Services as soon as possible. We can help create a plan for your specific situation.

The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number that you need to work in Canada or to have access to government programs and benefits. You can go to a Service Canada Center with the required documents in order to apply for yours. For more information, you may click on the following this link. https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/sin.html?utm_campaign=not-applicable&utm_medium=vanity-url&utm_source=canada-ca_social-insurance-number

No. The programs offered by IGK require you to complete the academic portion of your program before entering in the co-op term.

Students who have completed their hours before the end of the program are allowed to keep working on a part-time basis (20 hours/week) until their graduation date.