Co-op student FAQ

• Completion of all application activities 
• Must declare a major.
• Have completed 45 credit hours (students typically apply to the Co-op Program the first semester of their second year of study and are accepted into the program based on their December grades).
• Students must have at the time they apply and maintain, a minimum 2.5 CGPA 

Once you have gone through the application process and have received your acceptance letter from the Co-operative Education Department you will be assigned to an Work-Integrated Learning Advisor (WILA). The role of the WILA is to assist you with all aspects of the job search process. As well, there will be training you are expected to attend.

No, there is no fee for joining the co-op program. However, there is a registration fee for each work term. This fee is paid when you secure a work term. Current co-op registration fees can be found at http://www.smu.ca/academics/undergraduate-tuition-and-fees.html

Academic terms are alternated with Co-op work terms; your first work term would normally be in the summer after your second year and then academic terms and work terms are alternated until you complete the requirements of the Co-op program. Work terms are not guaranteed. In some cases students are required to meet with their Co-op Academic Advisor. Most Co-op students spend an additional six months to one year to obtain their degree with Co-operative Education experience.

Students must be enrolled in full-time classes at Saint Mary’s University before they can apply to the Co-op Program. Application deadlines vary according to the semester during which you plan secure your first work term.  

International students are no longer required to obtain a separate co-op work permit. Your valid study permit serves as authorization for co-op, provided it includes work eligibility. It remains your responsibility to ensure your study permit is valid and meets all work authorization requirements before beginning a co-op work term.

For more information, please visit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/simplifying-co-op-work-permit-requirement-post-secondary-international-students.html