The CanadaVisa Study Hub: An Online Portal for International Students and Graduates in Canada

by Gelek Badheytsang

It is estimated that more than 350,000 international students are currently studying in Canada, and this number is on the rise. Many universities and colleges are reporting significant increases in applications from potential international students for 2017. Studying in Canada can open doors to opportunities, not only for working after graduation but also for immigrating permanently. Individuals around the world are eager to take advantage of these opportunities and the new CanadaVisa Study Hub online portal can offer help.

Attorney David Cohen has more than 35 years of experience in Canadian immigration law. Now, he is applying this experience to a new initiative to assist international students through the entire journey of studying in Canada and the pathway to permanent residence. The newly launched CanadaVisa Study Hub is an online portal that provides international students and graduates with the means to maximize the potential of their time in Canada.

WES Global Talent Bridge sat down with Attorney Cohen to discuss this new resource.

What is the Study Hub?

The CanadaVisa Study Hub is an online portal for international students in Canada, as well as recent graduates working on a post-graduation work permit. The Study Hub not only provides information on studying in Canada, and working during and after studies, but also a customized plan for temporary and permanent immigration. Many international students in Canada aim to work after graduation or immigrate permanently, and the Study Hub is all about giving students the best possible opportunity for realizing that goal.

So the Study Hub is for international students and graduates who are aiming to stay in Canada?

Not exclusively. We’ve designed the Study Hub to cater to all international students and post-graduate workers in Canada. Although many international students do plan to stay in Canada after graduation, many others make plans to return to their home countries, or move elsewhere in the world. There are still many ways the CanadaVisa Study Hub can help these students during their time in Canada, and beyond. For example, there are career development resources to help students who are working during and after their studies and customized updates on permit status and renewal.

Tell us more about the features of the Study Hub.

The current offering includes a wide range of tools and resources, such as personalized notifications, a status tracker, customizable news updates, a job search tool, and more. These tools can be used to create a tailored plan for immigrating to Canada permanently, based on each member’s own situation.

There’s even a Scholarship Contest, offered exclusively to Study Hub members, in which every month one lucky member can win $2,500.

All these features are offered free of charge, so that international students can take control of their future in Canada. We recognize that each international student in Canada is unique, with different backgrounds and objectives. With this in mind, I envision the Study Hub as a means for students to receive information that is pertinent to them individually. We’re continually looking for ways to improve the offerings of the Study Hub and plan to implement various new features as our community develops.

That sounds very helpful for international students here. What made you want to create the Study Hub program?

My goal in creating the Study Hub is to demystify the immigration process for international students. Moving to a new country can be equally challenging and inspiring—for international students, in particular, there are many exciting new opportunities that studying in Canada can bring, but there are also challenges. Keeping track of permits and staying in compliance, all while maintaining good grades and settling into a new country—it’s a lot to take on. We hope that the Study Hub can simplify the bureaucratic side of things so that international students can have some peace of mind and focus on what’s important: getting the most out of their studies in Canada and preparing for their future.

What makes Canada a great place to study for international students?

Where do I begin? World-class institutions and innovative study programs, a welcoming attitude toward newcomers, opportunities to work while studying, and immigrate after graduation—the list goes on. In fact, Canada may be unique in its successful combination of comparatively affordable tuition and living expenses, bilingual education system, and options for immigration after graduation. Add to that a government that supports higher education and backs its support with generous funding, and Canada starts to look like a pretty attractive option.

Most international students can work for any employer during their studies. Spouses and common-law partners can accompany an international student and get an open work permit themselves. Children of international students can attend school—at the primary and secondary levels—for free. Canada is at the forefront of research and development in many sectors, including hot-button issues like start-up technology, environmental energy, aviation, engineering, mining, to name but a few.

Three Canadian cities—Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver—were recently named among the best cities globally for student life, with Montreal taking first place. You don’t find that combination of factors, all of which are extremely important to those people considering studying abroad, in many countries. You could say Canada’s got the whole package!

What do you hope to achieve through the Study Hub?

My ultimate goal is to create a community of bright, talented individuals who are dedicated to getting the most out of their time in Canada. International students and graduates are uniquely talented—they’ve left their comfort zone to settle in a new country, a new culture. Often, they speak more than one language, and they’ve proven their academic prowess. Many of these individuals can pursue immigration and work options after graduation without the assistance of a lawyer. But sometimes, things may not go as expected. We want to be that safety net if international students and graduates encounter issues they can’t navigate on their own. We hope that the Study Hub will be their first resource for getting the information they need when they need it.

How can international students learn more about immigrating to Canada after studying?

The Study Hub offers a step-by-step outline of the processes involved to make the transition to permanent resident status. Our frequent updates inform members when immigration programs change or open, and we regularly publish the latest news on immigration matters. I would encourage any international student or post-graduate worker who is considering immigrating to Canada to remain proactive and research the options open to them. Many immigration programs can change, open, and close at short notice, and those who are best prepared have the best chances of success. I hope that the resources within the Study Hub can help these students seize their opportunity when it comes along.

International students and recent graduates on a Post-Graduation Work can join the Study Hub to access these features, and enter the CanadaVisa Scholarship Contest for a chance to win $2,500.

Individuals considering studying in Canada are invited to complete a free assessment to discover their options with the CanadaVisa Study Pathway Form.

Studying in Canada: Resources and Links for Students

by WES Advisor

The following links offer general information and advice for prospective international students, including college search and application services, admissions testing, and financial aid information.

General Advice for International Students in Canada

The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) works with other federal departments, provincial and territorial governments and marketing agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic and business institutions to advance the Canadian education and training sector internationally.

The Canadian Education Centre Network is a private, independent non-profit company that was founded in 1995 with support from the Government of Canada to promote and market Canada as a study destination for international students and as a world-class provider of education services.

The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) is an umbrella non-governmental organization comprised of 200 colleges, universities, schools, school boards, educational organizations, and businesses across Canada. Nationally, CBIE engages in policy development, research, advocacy, and public information. CBIE is both a leader in shaping Canada’s international education agenda and a highly recognized provider of professional development programs for Canada’s international educators. CBIE manages vital services for foreign students in Canada.

Other useful resources for international students to Canada

• • www.studycanada.ca
  • www.studyincanada.com
  • www.canadianstudy.ca
  • www.studyincanada.ca

Centralized Application Site for the Province of Ontario

The Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) is a central bureau whose key function is the processing of applications for admission to the province’s universities.

The Ontario Medical School Application Service (OMSAS) is a non-profit centralized application service for applicants to the six Ontario medical schools: Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine (McMaster University), Northern Ontario School of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Queen’s University, University of Toronto, and Schulich School of Medicine (The University of Western Ontario).

The Ontario Rehabilitation Sciences Programs Application Service (ORPAS) is a centralized application service for Physiotherapy/Physical Therapy (PT), Occupational Therapy (OT), Audiology (AUD), and Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) programs at McMaster University, Queen’s University, University of Toronto, and The University of Western Ontario.

The Ontario Law School Application Service (OLSAS) is a non-profit centralized application service for applicants to the six Ontario law schools: Osgoode Hall Law School (York University), University of Ottawa, Queen’s University, University of Toronto, The University of Western Ontario, and University of Windsor.

The Teacher Education Application Service (TEAS) is a non-profit centralized application service for applicants to the Faculties of Education at the following institutions: Brock University, Lakehead University, Laurentian University, Nipissing University, University of Ottawa, Queen’s University, University of Toronto, Trent University, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, The University of Western Ontario, Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Windsor, and York University.

Language Testing

• Educational Testing Services Canada
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC)
  • TOEIC Listening and Reading
  • TOEIC Speaking and Writing

Financial Aid

Full-time students may be eligible for government student loan funding through the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). OSAP is a need-based program available to Canadian citizens and landed immigrants who are Ontario residents. Visit their site for information and application forms for assistance programs administered by the Province of Ontario. Part-time students may apply for a government student loan through the Part-time Canada Student Loan program.

Students who are residents of other Canadian provinces may apply for a government loan from their home province through the Out-of-Province Government Student Loans program. For information regarding other provincial student loan programs, consult the Web site of the provincial student assistance office.

International Students

International students studying on a student visa are not eligible for bank loans or government student loans in Canada. If planning to apply for landed immigrant status, students may become eligible for loans once landed status has been received. International visa students may want to investigate loan options available through the Paras Education Foundation.

Globalplacement is a free service for students for internships (work), placements and graduation assignments on an international level.

Source: WES

How to Connect with Employers in Canada

by Jodi Tingling

In a recent webinar, we discussed job search strategies with ACCES Employment and Seneca College to explore the approaches job seekers should use to successfully connect with prospective employers. We addressed such issues as penetrating the hidden job market, and establishing relationships with employers by using effective communication strategies.

On average, up to 80 percent of jobs are not advertised—these jobs make up the hidden job market. Employers find candidates through referrals from current employees, colleagues, friends, and family—in other words, through their networks. They do not limit themselves to job ads.

How can you get into the hidden job market if the positions are not advertised? Consider using the strategies outlined below.

Networking

Networking is an interpersonal process that leads to the mutual exchange of information, contacts, or leads—and it is no secret that it is critical to job hunting. Networking is one of the most effective ways to learn about employment opportunities that are not advertised. Asking those in your network for advice or information on how to get into a specific industry can boost your chances of getting the help you need to take the next steps in your career.

People typically develop their networks through “warm contacts”—those whom they already know—or through cold contacts—those they do not. You can extend your network through warm contacts such as former professional colleagues and supervisors, but do not overlook your relatives, friends, and other people who are part of your daily life. Networking with cold contacts, however, requires more effort.

Immigrant professionals who are new to the country may find it difficult to extend or even establish a network, since many if not most of their contacts will be “cold.” There are programs and supports that can help. For example, ACCES Employment offers many services, including speed mentoring events, that help internationally educated professionals succeed in their job search. Seneca College Bridging Programs also provide sector-specific networking opportunities.

You may want to engage in other networking efforts as well:

• Attend job fairs to directly connect with employers.
• Join a professional association to establish connections in your field.
• Attend industry conferences.
• Volunteer or participate in community events.

When you engage in these network activities, make sure you have a clear objective and plan, and understand whom you want to connect with and why. Initiate a natural conversation, and maintain a two-way dialogue—do not monopolize the conversation. Finally, ask questions that can help you with your employment goal.

How to Make the Most of In-Person Networking Events

Company Research

Make a list of companies you are interested in and begin researching them. Find out what they do, if their values align with yours, if they have employment opportunities, and who is responsible for hiring. Begin your research with a general internet search; then connect with an employer through a professional networking site like LinkedIn.

Cold Contacting

When establishing cold contacts, start with a personal introduction. Follow this up with the reason you are connecting and, if possible, ask for an informational interview. Here are some important tips for succeeding when cold contacting:

• Have an idea of what you want to say, but listen more than you talk.
• Get to know people for who they are—not just their professions.
• Follow up on the leads you generate.

Informational Interviews

An informational interview is a brief meeting that allows you to gather information about employment opportunities, a particular industry, or a particular employer. It is initiated by the job seeker and can provide job leads as well as new networking contacts.

Be specific about your goals when asking for an informational interview. For example, you can ask about the steps the person you are meeting with took to get into their current role. If the informational interview is with a hiring manager, you can ask what qualifications, skills, and experiences the company seeks in prospective hires. Be mindful of the person’s time, and be sure to send a thank-you email afterward. Follow up with any action items discussed during the meeting.

Communication Strategies When Connecting With Employers

Beyond understanding how to connect with employers, it is important to focus on communication skills. Communication is more than just the verbal exchange of information. It can also occur non-verbally, through wordless cues, gestures, or body language.

Non-Verbal Communication Strategies

When connecting with employers, your appearance matters. Make sure you make a good first impression by being neat, appropriately dressed, well groomed, and polished.

In North American culture, eye contact is important. It conveys confidence and openness. Look directly into the eyes of the person you are conversing with, without staring. Maintain a pleasant facial expression—which can include a smile to show that you are friendly and approachable.

Pay attention to how close you stand next to the persons you talk to—take note of the distance between individuals as you see it at conferences and in other professional settings. Your body language, gestures, and posture should also reflect your professional appearance. Remaining upright with your shoulders relaxed can also indicate confidence and professionalism.

Verbal Communication Strategies

Verbal communication refers to both speaking and writing. When speaking with employers, be sure to have a clear idea of what you want to say, even if that means committing part of it to memory. Listen attentively, and paraphrase your speaker’s words as appropriate.

When communicating in writing, make every effort to be clear. Review your message before sending it to make sure there are no grammatical or spelling errors. It is also a good idea to have a friend review it. If you are wondering what to say to a cold contact, you can introduce yourself and mention a mutual interest or connection. Also, be sure to have a specific request in mind, and be ready to offer something in return.

Mastering networking and communication strategies will help you connect with employers and increase your chances of tapping into the hidden job market and succeeding in your job search.

Source-WES