Work or Volunteer Abroad

You may be interested in learning about other cultures but do not necessarily want to take classes abroad. Doing volunteer or paid work overseas is an excellent way to learn aspects of a culture that a tourist may not see. You may also be able to earn money to defray the costs of your trip. International practicum and cooperative education programs provide you with valuable work experience in an international setting. Contact the International Education Office at your home institution to determine the availability of any of these programs.

Please note that you must obtain permission from the government of the host country in order to work or volunteer in that country. This permission is not easily obtained by a student unless your organization/institution or the Canadian government has made special arrangements approved by the host country.

Foreign Affairs Canada has entered into several agreements with countries around the world that facilitate international work opportunities for youth. Participation in these programs is normally based on a competitive application process. For further information on these opportunities, see Consular Affairs.

There are abundant opportunities to volunteer overseas with a variety of non-governmental organizations.

The following selection of links will give you some idea of the work and volunteer opportunities that are available.

Canadian Bureau for International Education
International Education Resources
Canadian World Youth
Young Professionals International
Youth Path
CUSO