International Student Career Week: March 9 - 13, 2026
Join us for SFU’s Spring 2026 International Student Career Week!
This week-long series of activities is specifically designed for international undergraduate and graduate students, aiming to help you succeed in today’s job market and your next professional career.
Getting work experience - both paid and volunteer – is an important part of your career journey. To help you prepare for the current Canadian job market and beyond, here is a long opportunity of interactive sessions (in-person, virtual & hybrid), to help you build confidence and skills to explore work experience options. Over the week you will have the opportunity to explore the following:
TOPICS:
- How to Build Your Canadian Work Experience & Leadership Skills (Panel session)
- Networking & Building Authentic Connections (Workshop)
- Job Search Strategies (Workshop)
- Learn about your Post Graduation Work Permit (Info. session)
- Explore International Co-op opportunities (Info. session)
- LinkedIn Photoshoot (On-site photographer)
- Resume Clinic (Drop-in session)
- Learn the value of your intercultural communication skills (Facilitated in-person discussion)
- Learn from SFU Alumni and their journey from classroom to job (Webstories)
Schedule at a Glance
Detailed Schedule
Monday
LinkedIn Photoshoot
Get a free professional headshot to update your LinkedIn profile!
Registration is strongly recommended. Walk-ins are welcome, but accommodation is not guaranteed. Priority will be given to those who sign up in advance, so don’t wait!
❗Please Note: We do not provide clothing, makeup, or accessories. Please bring your own items and be prepared before the photoshoot.
LinkedIn Photoshoot
Date: Monday, March 9, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM (PT)
Where: Global Student Centre (AQ 2013)
REGISTER HERE
BCNSP Drop-in Resume Clinic & Resources Booth
Looking for tips on writing a Canadian-style resume that stands out? Drop in for a one‑on‑one session with a BC Newcomer Services Program (BCNSP) specialist to polish your resume and boost your chances of landing an interview. Bring a copy of your current resume if you can!
BCNSP Drop-in Resume Clinic & Resources Booth
Date: Monday, March 9, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM (PT)
Where: Global Student Centre (AQ 2013)
DROP-IN, NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Co-op Abroad Info Session
Thinking about working abroad? Join our Co‑op Abroad Info Session to discover real opportunities and build a quick, practical plan for landing an international co‑op. Learn where to find quality postings, how to search strategically, and which tools and networks can connect you with global employers. Whether you’re just starting or refining your approach, you'll leave this session with clear, actionable next steps.
Tuesday
Building Career Connections: Your Guide to Easy, Authentic Networking
Curious about how to start conversations and build genuine professional connections in Canada? Want tips on navigating networking as an international student and expanding your circle with confidence? Join us for an engaging discussion on turning everyday interactions into meaningful career-building opportunities. This workshop will be facilitated by a SFU Career Educator.
Building Career Connections: Your Guide to Easy, Authentic Networking
Date: Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Time: 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM (PT)
Where: Global Student Centre (AQ 2013)
REGISTER HERE
Wednesday
Employer Panel: How to Build your Canadian Work Experience & Leadership Skills
Attend this session to hear what some of SFU’s key hiring managers are looking for in an ideal applicant and staff member. This panel discussion will:
- Focus on both paid and volunteer opportunities that exist across campus
- Address what managers value in international students
- Provide tips to help you when you apply
Panelists from the following Campus units will engage in a moderated discussion and be open to your questions and answers:
- Residence & Housing
- Co-operative Education
- Student Engagement & Retention or Faculty HIVE Leaders
- Advancement, Annual Giving Call Center
- SFU Library
How to Build your Canadian Work Experience & Leadership Skills
Date: Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Time: 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM (PT)
Where: Hybrid (Halpern 114 & Zoom)
REGISTER HERE
Thursday
Launching Your Career in Canada Workshop: Job Search Strategies for International Students
Discover the essential tools and techniques needed to launch your job search in Canada. In this interactive session, you'll learn how to identify opportunities, research employers, showcase your unique strengths and build a job search plan that works for you. A Career Educator will guide you through practical tips to help you take your next steps toward meaningful employment.
Launching Your Career in Canada: Job Search Strategies for International Students
Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026
Time: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (PT)
Where: Zoom
REGISTER HERE
Friday
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Information Session
Planning to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing your program? This session is designed to guide you through eligibility, the application process, and important considerations for international students.
Designed for SFU international undergraduate and graduate students completing their program in Spring 2026, and anyone interested in learning about the PGWP process.
This session will cover:
- Who qualifies, program requirements, and key considerations to maintain eligibility
- When to apply, IRCC processing times, and what to expect after submission
- Credential Completion Letter, transcript, passport, language scores, medical exam (if needed), biometrics, digital photo, and other supporting documents
- Step-by-step guidance on creating a document checklist, completing forms, and understanding your work eligibility after submission
- Q&A with an International Student Advisor / Immigration Specialist: Get answers to general questions and learn about common situations
The presentation will be recorded (except for the Q&A) and made available on our Video Resources page.
Review these resources before attending:
- Next Steps After Graduation
- Work in Canada after you graduate: About the PGWP – Canada.ca
- Work in Canada after you graduate: How to Apply – Canada.ca
- Submit your questions when you register through Eventbrite
❗Please note: This session covers general PGWP eligibility and application steps. It is not for case-specific questions. For one-on-one advice, please visit our Connect with Us page.
SFU staff and faculty are also welcome to attend.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Info Session
Date: Friday, March 13, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM (PT)
Where: Zoom
REGISTER HERE
Uncover Your Intercultural Communication Strengths
This interactive session is a chance for you to discuss what global competencies are and why they are increasingly valued by employers, while reflecting and connecting with your peers across difference. Through UNESCO’s Story Circle methodology, you will engage in guided small-group storytelling to explore identity, intercultural communication, and the transferable strengths shaped by your lived experiences. Come curious and leave feeling validated about the diverse life experiences you bring to the job world!
Global Stories: Uncover Your Intercultural Communication Strengths
Date: Friday, March 13, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:45 PM (PT)
Where: WMC 2200
REGISTER HERE
Zoom & Technical Requirements:
To attend our virtual sessions, you must have access to internet, and a working computer. Registered participants will be provided with a link in advance via email to access the online space. Our live virtual sessions will be offered via the online platform Zoom. Learn more about SFU Zoom features, tools, and privacy.
Accessibility:
We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to participate. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please note them during registration on Eventbrite or contact us at sfu_global@sfu.ca.
? Have questions?
If you have questions about International Student Career Week, please email us at sfu_global@sfu.ca.