A co-op work permit allows a study permit holder to take part in work integrated learning (WIL) if it is a mandatory part of their academic program. The co-op work permit is separate from the work authorization which may appear on your study permit.
Note – work integrated learning refers to any type of work that is a mandatory part of a students’ program of study. This may be in the form of a practicum, internship, field placement, co-op placement, etc.
Here is a list of programs that require international students to have a co-op work permit:
- Bachelor of Arts Psychology (Applied Emphasis)
- Bachelor of Education (After Degree)
- Bachelor of Management
- Bachelor of Management & Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (Dual Degree)
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
- Master of Science in Information Technology
- Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology
Eligibility Requirements for the Co-op Work Permit:
- have a valid study permit,
- be enrolled in a program that has a required work integrated learning component that totals 50% or less of your study program,
- have a letter from CUE which confirms that students in your program need to complete a work placement to get their certificate, diploma or degree (please see section on How to Apply for instructions)
How to Apply:
- CUE students will be required to apply within Canada.
- Students must apply for their co-op work permit approximately 6 months in advance of their placement start date. Failure to do so could result in your placement being rescheduled for a later date.
- Enroll into the applicable course in advance through Online Services – pay attention to any prerequisites or special permissions.
- Only after you have enrolled into the course, request a co-op work permit supporting letter from the Registrar’s Office by email to registrar@concordia.ab.ca – provide your full name, student id number, program name and explanation of your request
- Once you have your supporting documentation, apply for the Co-op Work Permit online
- Application fee: no cost
- For questions, seek assistance from the International Office by email: international@concordia.ab.ca
Attention: IRCC Temporary Policy Change
From November 15, 2022, to December 31, 2023, some students may not need to apply for a
co-op work permit if meeting specific eligibility criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and
Citizenship Canada. To discuss eligibility please contact the International Office at international@concordia.ab.ca. Students who do not meet all criteria of the temporary
policy change MUST have a co-op work permit prior to the start of their work integrated
learning experience.
To learn more about co-op work permits, please visit the website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).