If your program has a mandatory work term (also called a work placement, work experience, internship, clinical placement or co-op), you need a co-op work permit.  This is different from the work that you can do with your study permit.  A work term refers to any period of time where you work instead of study as part of your program requirements.  You must have a co-op work permit to do this work – even if it is unpaid.

Co-op work permit is the phrase Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses for a student work placement, work term, internship or co-op work placement. International students at NSCC require a co-op work permit during their program. 

This work permit application is online and there is no fee for this permit. The application guide for the co-op work permit can be found here:

2021 NSCC Guide – Co-op Work Permit

Please note that students enrolled in health care programs are required to have a co-op work permit for clinical placements that are a part of their NSCC program.

Once you receive your co-op work permit, you can use the iCent app to upload a copy of your permit. This will be sent directly to our Work Integrated Learning team. This team ensures all students have their co-op work permits before work placements start.

If your employer is asking questions about the co-op work permit, please share this guide with them:

2021 NSCC Guide – Co-op Work Permit for Employers

Finding Work

The NSCC website has an list of jobs for students and graduates looking for employment. This list is updated on a regular basis.

If you need any help with your resume or have questions about looking for jobs, please visit Student Services at your campus or visit the Career Services website.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am doing a work placement, but it’s unpaid. Do I still need a co-op work permit?

Yes.  All “work” requires a permit, even if it is unpaid.

What is a co-op letter and where do I get it?

You can get a co-op letter from the Assistant Registrar at your Campus. This letter will confirm that work is a mandatory part of your program.