Co-ops and internships: how they work in Canada

Co-op programs and internships let you try a field before you commit to it, and they often lead straight to a job offer.

Co-op vs. internship

• **Co-op:** part of a school program. You alternate study terms with paid work terms, and your school helps match you with employers.
• **Internship:** a set period of work, often after or near the end of your studies. Some are part of a program, others you find on your own.

Are they paid?

Most co-op placements in Canada are paid. For internships, the rules depend on your province: in many cases, unpaid internships are only allowed when they're part of a school program. If you're unsure, check your provincial employment standards office.

How to land one

• Talk to your school's co-op or career office early
• Keep your resume to one page and change it for each posting
• Prepare two short stories about a project you finished and a problem you solved

Make the most of it

Ask questions, take notes, and ask your supervisor at the end whether they'd be a reference.