Co-op Education Student Agreement & Terms of Participation

1. Program Requirements I understand that each Co-op Program at SFU has a minimum number of Co-op work terms that students are required to complete and that it is my responsibility to know the requirements of the program I am applying to. I agree to complete the minimum number of Co-ops and fulfill all associated work term requirements for each of my Co-op work terms.

I further acknowledge that to ensure job accessibility for all students Co-op programs may restrict the number of Co-op work terms that can be completed. I understand that it is my responsibility to know of any restrictions set by my Co-op program and to ensure I contact my Co-op Coordinator should I have any questions.

2. Refund of Application Fees I understand that I may choose to withdraw my application to Co-op by informing the Co-op office of my intentions (unless it is a mandatory part of my academic program). However, application fee refunds will not be available if I have accessed any of the Co-op orientation or preparation resources available to me. This could include but is not limited to attending workshops, attending appointments with Co-op staff, and engaging with online resources on Canvas. Decisions regarding tuition refunds are at the sole discretion of the SFU Co-op Office.

3. Participation and Compliance I will follow all guidelines established by the Co-op Program, including attending required sessions and workshops, adhering to application procedures, using the online job posting system, following interview processes, accepting positions and completing all required forms. I will refer to the Co-op Program website and orientation materials for a full list of required activities.

4. Accuracy of Information and Communication I will provide truthful and complete information regarding my qualifications to the Co-op Office and potential employers. I will check my SFU email regularly and respond promptly to communications from Co-op staff, including while seeking a Co-op and when on a Co-op work term.

5. Privacy and Data Protection I consent, as detailed in the Disclosure of Personal Information to the disclosure of my citizenship status, academic transcript, resume, cover letter, and portfolio materials to current and prospective employers solely for the purposes of facilitating the Co-op hiring process. My personal information will be handled in compliance with British Columbia’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and will be securely stored and deleted as required by FIPPA, upon my exit from the Co-op Program. I understand that I may withdraw this consent in writing at any time.

6. Academic Coursework During Co-op The Co-op Office does not recommend taking courses while on a Co-op work term. If necessary, I may take a maximum of one course per Co-op semester, which may require that I obtain written approval from my employer and faculty/instructor. I understand that taking a course does not exempt me from meeting my employer’s work performance expectations.

7. Confidentiality and Academic Integrity I will keep Co-op job postings, employer contact lists, passwords, Co-op curriculum materials and other proprietary information confidential.

8. Job Application and Offer Acceptance I will, as far as possible, only apply to jobs I am willing to accept if offered. If I learn of new information during an interview that makes a position unsuitable, I will notify the Co-op Office within 24 hours to request removal from the competition. I understand that declining an offer without justifiable reason may affect my future participation in the Co-op Program.

9. Job Search and Employer Relations The Co-op Program does not guarantee work placements. I understand that I may conduct my own job search if necessary, however, I must receive approval of my Co-op Coordinator to register a student-developed work term. I agree not to directly solicit Co-op positions from employers currently affiliated with SFU's Co-op Program while enrolled in the SFU Co-op Program. Any student-developed positions that meet Co-op criteria must be registered with the Co-op Office. Additionally, I agree to enroll in the required Co-op practicum course and pay all associated tuition and fees, for any student-secured positions.

If my Co-op is extended or I return to a previous Co-op employer, I will report this to the Co-op Office and register for the appropriate course, paying all applicable tuition and fees.

10. Financial Responsibilities I will pay my Co-op work term tuition and fees by the University’s tuition deadline. If I choose to accept a Co-op that requires travel or relocation, I agree that I will cover all associated travel or relocation expenses unless subsidized by my employer. If I am unable to complete a work term due to extenuating circumstances, I understand that any refunds would be based on SFU’s Tuition Refund Policy

11. Reporting Issues and Changes I will inform my Co-op Program of any issues, changes, or concerns related to my Co-op participation or work term. This could include but is not limited to the following examples: 

• Issues with getting paid by the employer
• Lack of training or mentorship
• Conflicts with co-workers
• Difficulties in learning requirements for the job
• Personal issues that would impact job performance or may require leaving your position

12. Performance and Conduct Standards I understand that failure to meet Co-op expectations may result in a failing grade and/or removal from the program, including but not limited to:

• Receiving an unsatisfactory employer evaluation.
• Violating the terms of an employer policy or contract (e.g., failure to adhere to the employer’s Non-Disclosure Agreements)
• Engaging in inappropriate behavior as determined by SFU policies.
• Failing to complete required work term reports or program-specific requirements.

I understand that should I receive a failing grade for a Co-op term, I can make an appeal following the requirements of SFU’s Grading and Reconsideration of Grades Policy. Details of this request shall be provided in writing to the Co-op Director in a timely fashion. 

13. Degree Completion Requirements I will ensure that my final semester at SFU is an academic semester and not a Co-op work term.

14. Additional Requirements for International Students Before seeking a work term on SFU’s myExperience job portal, or accepting a Co-op in Canada, I will obtain and submit the following: 

A. A valid Co-operative Education work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), submitted to the Co-op office.

B. Proof of British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage, for your own record.

C. Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN) will be submitted to my employer upon hiring.

I understand that Co-op participation for international students is subject to current federal immigration policies and that I am responsible for ensuring compliance.

15. Academic Standing I understand that I am required to meet the SFU Standards to be in good academic standing, throughout my participation in the Co-op Program and continue to behave in a manner that adheres to the SFU Student Conduct Policy.