With some early planning, international students who want to settle in Canada can greatly improve their chances of becoming permanent residents. Many students plan to focus on immigration only after finishing their studies. However, waiting too long can lead to missed opportunities that are easiest to take while still studying.
By understanding Canada’s immigration system early, students can make better choices during their education that support long-term settlement goals. Below are five effective ways in which students can boost their chances of Canadian PR.
Let’s take a look at them!
Choose A Study Program With A Co-op Option
For many international graduates, finding their first Canadian job is one of the hardest steps. A co-op program can make this process much easier.
Co-op programs allow students to gain real Canadian work experience while completing their studies. These placements help students understand Canadian workplace culture and build local experience that employers value.
In many cases, students who perform well during a co-op placement may receive a job offer from the same employer after graduation. This helps graduates enter the Canadian job market faster.
Entering the workforce sooner means becoming eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) earlier. The CEC is one of the main pathways to permanent residence through Express Entry. It requires at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience.
Each year of Canadian work experience also adds points under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). A higher CRS score increases the chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Work done during full-time studies does not count toward CEC or CRS points. The main benefit of co-op programs is that they help graduates secure skilled jobs faster after completing their studies.
Build Foreign Work Experience During Studies
Foreign work experience can play an important role in the Express Entry system. It can add up to 50 CRS points, which can make a major difference in receiving an ITA.
Unlike Canadian work experience, foreign work experience can be gained while studying full-time. Students who did not have skilled work experience before coming to Canada can use this option to strengthen their profile.
Foreign work experience can be gained in several ways. Some students return to their home country during school breaks, such as summer holidays, to work in skilled roles. Others work remotely from Canada for employers based outside the country.
As long as the job meets the requirements for skilled work and is properly documented, it can count toward CRS points. Planning for foreign work experience during studies can help students become more competitive later.
Aim For Occupations That Are In Demand
Another one of the ways in which students can boost their chances of Canadian PR is to aim for professions that are in demand.
Well, Canada’s immigration system often focuses on workers in specific fields that face labour shortages. Gaining experience in these in-demand occupations can improve PR chances, even with a lower CRS score.
Through Express Entry, Canada conducts category-based draws that target certain professions. These categories often include jobs in healthcare and social services, science and technology, skilled trades, agriculture and food processing, and education.
In most cases, candidates need at least six months of work experience in an eligible occupation to qualify for these draws. Students who plan ahead can shape their work experience to fit these categories.
Some students may even choose work that is different from their field of study. For example, a student may study one subject but gain work experience in a skilled trade during school breaks.
After graduation, this experience can still count toward category-based Express Entry draws, as long as it meets program rules.
Connect With Alumni And Build A Strong Network
Networking plays an important role in building a career in Canada. Alumni networks offer valuable support for students who are preparing for life after graduation.
Former students often share advice based on real experience. They can explain how they found jobs, applied for work permits, or entered immigration programs.
Alumni may also introduce students to industry professionals or employers. These connections can lead to job interviews or job offers, which are important for gaining Canadian work experience.
Moreover, networking opportunities are available at most schools through events, online groups, and mentorship programs. Building relationships early helps create a strong foundation for both career growth and settlement plans.
Learn French To Boost Immigration Points
Learning French can provide one of the strongest advantages for economic immigration to Canada. While this option may not suit everyone, it can significantly improve competitiveness.
An intermediate level of French proficiency can add up to 50 extra CRS points. It can also open access to French-language category-based Express Entry draws, which have often had lower CRS cut-off scores.
Students enrolled in longer programs, such as three or four-year degrees, have more time to build French skills gradually. Regular practice over several years reduces stress compared to learning a new language quickly after graduation.
Many schools offer French courses or access to language learning resources. Some communities also provide French-speaking groups where students can practice regularly.
There may also be immersion programs that allow students to live and study in French-speaking environments for short periods. These options can help improve language skills faster and more naturally.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a permanent resident of Canada as an international student requires planning and effort. Taking action early during studies can make the process smoother and more successful.
Choosing co-op programs, gaining foreign work experience, targeting in-demand jobs, networking with alumni, and learning French are all practical steps that can improve long-term outcomes.
With careful planning and informed choices, international students can place themselves in a much stronger position to achieve permanent residence after graduation.
MakeHomeCanada, a Canadian immigration leader, promises excellence and tailored pathways for your Canadian journey. Get in touch with us at [email protected].
