Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What companies do interns work for?

Answer: We have a wide variety of employers. Some of the fields include: banking, law, investing, hospitality, events management, construction, and tourism. We continually seek out new employers, so fresh opportunities appear frequently.

Question: Can I work in any field I wish?

Answer: We always try to place interns in positions that match their career interests and we are usually successful. It is, however, sometimes necessary to be flexible. Remember that the main purpose of the practicum is to help you improve your English skills.

Question: Will I be paid for the work I do during my practicum?

Answer: Although most practicum assignments are unpaid, we also offer paid internships. If you want a paid practicum, you should mention it when you apply for admission. Please note that paid internships are not offered for programs that are shorter than 24 weeks.

Question: Do paid and unpaid practicum assignments have different work?

Answer: Yes, the work can be different. Our interns often work in hotels, so let’s use a hotel as an example.

In a hotel, unpaid interns might work in administration, marketing, accounting, or events management. Paid interns, however, would more likely work in housekeeping or the restaurant. Paid interns are not usually able to chose a specific field in which to work. Whatever the situation, we will do our best to ensure that you have work that will allow you to practice your English.

Question: How much money will I earn?

Answer: The minimum wage is CAD$8.00 per hour. Some interns make much more, but they are the lucky ones. You should not plan to make more than the minimum wage.

Question: Are all of the employers in Vancouver?

Most of our employers are in Vancouver. Some are in nearby cities, like Burnaby and Richmond. For students who request them, we also offer paid internships in Banff & Canmore.

Question: How long is the program?

Answer: With an unpaid internship, the minimum term is 8 weeks. With a paid internship, the minimum term is 24 weeks. The maximum term is 48 weeks.

Custom programs can be arranged in some circumstances. The standard terms are: 8, 16, 24, 32, and 48 weeks.

Question: Do I need a visa?

Answer: Yes, you should apply for a Study Permit (student visa) after you receive your Letter of Acceptance from the school. The Letter of Acceptance will explain that you must complete a practicum as an integral part of the Business Internship Program.

Question: Do I need a Social Insurance Number?

Answer: You cannot be paid if you do not have a Social Insurance Number (SIN). Therefore, if you have requested a paid practicum, you should apply for a SIN as soon as you come to Canada.

The application process usually takes four to six weeks. You can find more information about SIN applications here.

If you do not have enough time, you can place a rush SIN application here.

• Internship Program Description.
  
• Internship Intern Profile Form.
  
• Internship Details.
  
• Internship Course Schedule .
  
• Internship Start Dates.
  
• Internship Program Fees.
  
• Practicum.
  
• Internship Terms.
  
• Internship Course Outline.
  
• Internship Program Visa Requirements
  
• Student Comments.
  
• Business English Courses.
• Interns' Attire.
  
• Frequently Asked Questions.
  
• Paid Internships in Banff & Canmore.