The Federal Student Work Experience Program, also called FSWEP, is a way for students in Canada to get work experience while going to school. Imagine being able to learn and work at the same time!
This program has many different jobs you can do in the government. You can earn money while learning about different careers, like working in an office, handling money, working with computers, or helping the environment.
FSWEP is the biggest student work program in Canada. It’s really made for students who want to get real-life work experience. You can work part-time or full-time in areas that interest you, like running an office or protecting the Earth.
What is FSWEP and Why is it Good?Â
FSWEP lets you work while you study. This means you earn money while learning something new. This money helps pay for school. It also opens doors to future jobs in the government. You learn new skills, meet important people, and try out different types of jobs.
FSWEP is flexible, meaning you can work and study at the same time. You don’t have to choose one over the other.
Who Can Join FSWEP?Â
To join FSWEP, you need to meet some rules:
- You must be a full-time student in a recognized school. If you have a disability, you might still qualify as a full-time student.
- You must be old enough to work in your area.
- You should plan to go back to school full-time after working, unless it is your last year of study, and you have done FSWEP before.
How to Get a Job with FSWEPÂ
Follow these steps to get a job through FSWEP:
1. Get a Scholarship: First, try to get a scholarship. This helps pay for school so you can concentrate on learning and working.
2. Enroll in a Program: Once you have your scholarship, join your study program. While studying, learn skills related to your career goals.
3. Finish 80% of Your Studies: When you have done most of your studies, you can start looking for a job through FSWEP. By then, you will know enough to find a job that matches your skills.
4. Add Your Profile to FSWEP: After completing 80% of your education, go to the FSWEP website and add your information to their list.
What Do You Gain from FSWEP?Â
Here are the great things you get by joining FSWEP:
- Earn While Learning: You get paid while learning on the job.
- Career Paths: FSWEP lets you explore different government jobs.
- Meet People: You will meet professionals who can help you in the future.
- Flexible Work: Choose between part-time or full-time, making it easy to manage your school schedule.
Scholarships for International StudentsÂ
Getting a scholarship can save international students a lot of money. Here are some scholarships you can apply for in Canada:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: $50,000 each year for PhD students. Deadline: November 2024.
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship: Covers costs for undergraduate students. Deadline: January 2025.
3. University of British Columbia International Scholars Program: Need-based support for undergraduates. Deadline: December 2024.
4. Ontario Graduate Scholarship: $5,000 for each term for Master’s and PhD students. Deadline: January 2025.
5. Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: $40,000 a year for PhD students, plus travel money. Deadline: December 2024.
6. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship: $15,000 for undergraduates. Deadline: December 2024.
7. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships: Up to $60,000 a year for PhD students. Deadline: November 2024.
8. University of Toronto Fellowships for International Students: Covers costs for graduate programs. Deadline: February 2025.
9. Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED): Up to $15,900 for ASEAN countries’ students. Deadline: March 2025.
With FSWEP, studying students in Canada have a chance to work while learning. By following these steps and getting scholarships, you can do well in school and work at the same time.