Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Student Services

International Student Advising and Programs

ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS: STUDYING AND WORKING IN CANADA

i This website contains general information and resources related to policies, procedures, and application processes for international students.

For the latest updates and specific information on COVID-19 including impacts on immigration applications (e.g. study permits, work permits, visas), travel restrictions, work eligibility, and medical insurance, please refer to our FAQ page:

COVID-19 FAQ for International Students

Although your study permit allows you to study part time (i.e. you are still considered to be "actively pursuing studies" if enrolled part time), part-time enrollment will impact your ability to work on or off campus. It may also affect your eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

Contact an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist well in advance if you plan to enroll part time during your program.

Undergraduate Students

As an undergraduate student you may study part time in the Summer term without any impact on your study permit or work eligibility, as long as you enroll full time for both the Spring and Fall terms.

If you choose to study part time in the Fall or Spring term:

  • You will not be eligible to work on or off campus until you resume full-time enrollment.
  • Speak with an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist about the potential impact on your Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility. IRCC policy requires you to have continuously studied full time in order to qualify for this work permit.
Note: You may be a part-time student in your final term of studies without any negative impact on your ability to work or Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility, provided you were continuously enrolled full time in all other required terms. See Working On Campus and Working Off Campus for details.

Graduate Students

If you are a graduate student and wish to study part time, please note:

  • You will not be eligible to work on or off campus until you resume full-time enrollment. 
  • Speak with an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist about the potential impact on your Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility. IRCC policy requires you to have continuously studied full time in order to qualify for this work permit.
Note: You may be a part-time student in your final term of studies without any negative impact on your ability to work or Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility, provided you were continuously enrolled full time in all other required terms. See Working On Campus and Working Off Campus for details.