Co-Op Program
What to expect from the Co-Op Program
The Co-Op Program combines language learning with workplace experience. It involves two stages.
- Complete a language course (minimum 4 weeks).
- Placement in a Canadian company (minimum of 4 weeks, maximum 24 weeks depending on the type of Co-Op you choose).
The workplace assignment is an integral part of the Co-Op program as it allows you to put your language skills to use in real-life situations in a Canadian place of work.
The workplace assignment begins shortly after you have completed the language course component at LSC. The duration of the work assignment cannot be longer than the length of the language course.
All work opportunities are based on reaching the required language level, having the necessary education, experience, attitude and flexibility. Ultimately, it is up to the student to win the interview.
For Paid Guaranteed Co-Op, the longer the study and work period, the more options for work placements.
Types of Co-Op
|
Unpaid Work |
Paid Work - SELF Placement |
Paid Work - Guaranteed Placement | |
| Available | Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver | Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver | Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver |
| Study + Work Length |
4 weeks study + 4 weeks work to 12 weeks study + 12 weeks work |
12 weeks study + 12 weeks work or 24 weeks study + 24 weeks work |
16 weeks study + 16 weeks work or 24 weeks study + 24 weeks work |
| Visa required |
Depending on placement requested Tourist visa or Study Permit with work permit |
Study Permit + Work Permit Both visas must be obtained prior to arrival in Canada |
Study Permit + Work Permit Both visas must be obtained prior to arrival in Canada |
| Language requirement for work placement |
Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver Advanced English Montreal - bilingual High intermediate French; High intermediate English |
Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver Advanced English Montreal - bilingual High intermediate French; High intermediate English |
Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver Advanced English Montreal Not available |
| Required Course |
4 weeks of 30 Lessons (one required course: Workplace Readiness) - rest of studies can be 20, 25 or 30 Lessons |
4 weeks of 30 Lessons (one required course: Workplace Readiness) - rest of studies can be 20, 25 or 30 Lessons |
8 weeks of 30 Lessons (two required courses: Workplace Readiness and Hospitality/Retail English) - rest of studies can be 20, 25 or 30 Lessons |
| Placement | LSC guarantees placement in one of 3 choices from selected list of available jobs areas | Student finds own placement; LSC provides counselling support | LSC guarantees a placement in chosen area of hospitality or retail; job is assigned by Placement Officer according to student's skills and abilities |
| Type of Work | Depending on placement: office work primarily; some tourism jobs | No restrictions | Entry back of house positions in hotels, restaurants, retail |
| Accommodation |
Homestay available although students often choose own lodging during placement |
Homestay available although students often choose own lodging during placement |
Homestay available if working in city although students often choose own lodging during placement |
Application Requirements
We recommend that you complete the LSC written placement test first to ensure that the minimum score is met before proceeding with the application requirements.
If you would like to apply for the Co-Op Program, please contact an authorized LSC representative for a placement test. Click here to find an LSC representative in your country.
