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Students
“Co-op is a stepping stone. It gives you a competitive edge on other graduates and allows you to make valuable employment contacts. I'm glad I went the co-op route.”
- Kevin Godwin, Co-op Student
25Post-Secondary Institutions
300+Co-op Programs
10K+Annual Placements
BENEFITS OF CO-OP
Becoming a Co-op Student helps you get paid as you explore potential career paths and gain valuable work experience.
Search Co-op Programs- Network with professionals from your industry
- Apply your classroom learning
- Develop valuable workplace skills
- Earn money to help with tuition costs
- Explore different career opportunities
- Build on your resume by adding relevant Co-op experience
- Access job postings only available to Co-op students
- Gain perspective on your industry
- Receive guidance and assistance with your job search
How Does It Work?
Co-op work terms are paid and generally start in January, May or September and last for approximately four to eight months. Here is an example of a typical Co-op process. Contact your institution’s Co-op office to review specific guidelines and processes.
Step 1
Job Postings
Once accepted to a Co-op program, you'll complete any necessary training. Next, you'll gain access to Co-op job postings. You can begin searching for a Co-op position the semester before you're planning to work.
Step 2
Job Applications
Apply for Co-op opportunities through your institution. Your Co-op office will send your application to the employer to review.
Step 3
Interview Process
Employers screen resumes and select potential candidates for the interview process. Your Co-op office will help coordinate interview times with the employers. Interviews can take place on campus or at the place of employment. Telephone interviews or video conferencing can be arranged for non-local employers.
Step 4
Placement Process
Once employers have selected their preferred candidate, your Co-op office will make the offer to the successful student candidate and will confirm with both parties when the offer is accepted.
Step 5
During the Work Term
During the work term, someone from your Co-op office will conduct a work site visit. The employer will evaluate your performance, and you will be given the opportunity to provide feedback. Your institution may also have additional work term requirements.
Step 6
End of the Work Term
Employers are requested to provide a written evaluation of your performance at the end of the work term. Students are required to submit a work report or reflection on their work term.
When are work terms available?
Work terms typically start in January, May or September and last for approximately four to eight months.
Do I have to apply to get into Co-op?
Yes, usually, although some Co-op programs are mandatory. Please check with your institution for specific application requirements and procedures.
Which programs offer Co-op?
Please use our Search Co-op Programs tool, as offerings vary accross post-secondary institutions.
Who determines the salary?
Employers decide the salary. The expectation is that the employer pay Co-op students an equitable wage in keeping with their experience and educational level. Your institution will offer guidance to help employers in determining a salary, based on what current Co-op students are earning.