Canadian workplace culture: A guide for international students

Whether you plan to work in Canada while you’re attending classes, after you graduate, or both, at some point you’ll need to know what to expect from Canadian workplace culture! Just like the cultural differences you’ve likely noticed in other areas of life while abroad, there might be cultural differences between professional expectations in Canada and your home country.

But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a guide on Canadian workplace culture – from basic expectations and communications to management styles.

The basics

It won’t be surprising to hear that the foundation of Canadian professional culture is respect. So whether you’re interviewing or showing up for day one of your new job, be sure to speak to colleagues and superiors in a respectful, friendly tone. Speak to them as you would a professor or another person who you admire.

When meeting new colleagues, a handshake is often expected. But that should be the only form of physical contact required in your workplace. Canadians also value punctuality – so make sure to be on time to the office every day and/or to your meetings. Make this your new mantra: if you’re not five minutes early, you’re late!

While dress code varies in different industries, being overdressed is never a bad thing. Most Canadian workplaces expect their employees to show up in clean, modest, business casual attire. Some types of businesses, like creative agencies or startups, may be okay with more casual or artistic attire. But make sure you know for sure what’s appropriate and allowed before you start pushing any fashion boundaries at work!

In Canada, like in many other Western countries, you’ll generally be paid biweekly – which means every two weeks. During your onboarding, you’ll likely need to provide a voided check and bank account details to ensure your new employer can pay you via direct deposit (your salary or wages go directly into your bank account every payment cycle). Because of this, it’s a good idea to open a Canadian bank account before you start work. Our partner TD Bank Canada* offers checking and savings accounts designed for international students.

Learn more

Communications

Your Canadian colleagues will likely value politeness and directness in their communications with you. Canada’s culture in general is highly courteous, so be sure to express your thanks whenever you can and be kind to your colleagues by asking thoughtful questions. Remember, to be kind and polite you don’t need to cross personal boundaries. Asking people about their weekend plans (or similar types of questions) is a great way to politely show curiosity without asking for too much detail about their personal lives.

Canadians also tend to be very direct communicators. They will tell you in straightforward terms what you’re doing well and what still needs improvement. This is a good approach for you to take in your work communications, too. Ask direct questions and state your perspective in clear terms. But remember, directness shouldn’t come at the expense of politeness.

Collaboration is another key value of many Canadian workplaces. This means that the expectation is to work together to solve problems and to seek input from other teams when needed. Just like in a school group project, you’ll need to work with different types of people and know how to communicate with all of them to be successful!

Management styles

Management style refers to how a company is managed and supported by its leadership team. In Canada, most employers (though not all) tend to favor flat or collaborative organizational management. This means rather than working in a hierarchical structure with a clear chain of command, you’ll likely be collaborating often with company leaders and speaking directly with them. While they’re still your superiors and you report to them, this structure encourages staff at all levels to share ideas, brainstorm and work together to achieve common organizational goals.

This means you’ll need to show up to work ready to collaborate, share your ideas, and take initiative over projects. Of course, your Canadian co-workers will be more than happy to support you along the way with their characteristic politeness.

Be curious and pay attention to onboarding materials

Keep in mind that company culture is highly unique and varies from company to company in Canada. You can still prepare! The tips in this article will help you succeed no matter what job you land. During your company’s onboarding, they’ll share more details with you about their specific culture and expectations, so our final tip is to pay attention during your first few days so you don’t miss anything important!

*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.

International student success story: From Colombia to Indiana University

Colombian student Juan Ballen is fulfilling his study abroad dream by pursuing his MBA at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. His journey has been marked by determination, new experiences and invaluable support from MPOWER Financing. Explore Juan’s story, his motivation for studying in the U.S. and the financial challenges he faced on his journey.

Motivation behind coming to the U.S.

Before coming to the U.S., Juan was building a career in data analytics in Colombia, but he felt the need to grow professionally and academically beyond his country’s borders. He thought a MBA degree in a foreign country, with concentration in business analytics could be a great boost for his career.

Juan chose the U.S. because he wanted to immerse himself in an environment rich with new opportunities. “I wanted to impact my professional career in an international environment where there is more diversity and professionalism. I felt that it was a great opportunity to undertake and impact my professional career,” he says.

Studying in the U.S. offered Juan the chance to experience a different culture, expand his network and gain perspectives that would contribute significantly to his career growth.

Financial challenges on the way to Indiana University

Like many international students, Juan faced financial challenges when it came to funding his education and living expenses in the U.S. For him, education abroad seemed unachievable until he discovered MPOWER Financing.

“One of the most important moments was knowing how I was going to be able to pay for my studies and be able to follow my dreams,” Juan says. “In my case, it was a great opportunity to have a really important investment toward my MBA. I required a lot of money, and it was not so easy to get ways to be able to pay it.”

MPOWER Financing made it possible for Juan to overcome financial hurdles and pursue his academic goals abroad.

Juan’s story with MPOWER Financing

Juan learned about MPOWER Financing at a conference for international students in the U.S. and Canada. The competitive interest rates and no-cosigner student loans offered by MPOWER particularly appealed to him, given the limited options available in Colombia.

“I found that one of the greatest advantages that MPOWER had was its easy process,” he adds. Having guaranteed funding from a reputable U.S. lender satisfies the school’s requirement to issue an I-20.

Juan remembers how he felt when his loan was approved:
“When I received the acceptance, it was an immense emotion for me. And I knew it was going to open many doors for my future.”

Managing MPOWER loan payments

Juan recognizes the importance of effectively managing his MPOWER loan payments and created a budget to include his recurring payments.

To cover monthly in-school payments, Juan relies on a combination of funding sources. “Part of the payment comes from the savings I had previously. Additionally, I’m applying to be a teaching assistant or an assistant to a department,” he says. This strategic approach provides him with financial stability and helps him manage his interest payments.

By leveraging resources like MPOWER and taking on part-time jobs, Juan can cover his loan payments and successfully build credit in the U.S. through timely repayment. “These opportunities allow me to have some additional income and be a little more financially stable to make the payments of my interest,” he notes.

Advice for fellow international students

Juan believes financial challenges shouldn’t deter you from achieving your aspirations. Instead, he encourages leveraging funding like student loans from MPOWER Financing to make education abroad accessible.

Moreover, Juan emphasizes embracing new experiences and being open to the diverse perspectives you’ll encounter. “Cultural change teaches you to see many new things,” he says. By managing your finances wisely and staying adaptable, you can make the most of your educational journey in the U.S.

Need help financing your education abroad? Start an application and check your eligibility in less than a minute.

Apply Now

International study programs: Nursing

Nursing is a popular postgraduate degree among international study programs for students enrolling in a U.S. school.

If you’ve decided to pursue an advanced nursing degree, here’s what to expect from a nursing program, the demand for this field of study, and the types of jobs a nursing degree offers.

About nursing programs

If you currently have a bachelor’s degree and are exploring advanced nursing for international students, a popular postgraduate path toward a clinically based advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) program is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Coursework under an MSN program varies by school but generally focuses on advanced competency in the nursing and medical field, and the opportunity to acquire a deeper understanding of your chosen concentration or specialty. Studying toward an MSN can also position you as an expert in a particular specialty, like nursing administration, public health, or health care quality and patient safety.

If studying toward an MSN full time, it can take up to 24 months to complete the program. During this time, you’ll gain advanced knowledge about patient care and safety, unit efficiency, how to effectively service various communities and work within clinical teams.

In addition to completing required courses, like health informatics and health policy, you’re generally required to complete practicum hours at an approved worksite as part of your program.

After completing the program requirements, you must take a licensure test to work as a clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist, certified nurse midwife, or nurse practitioner.

Other graduate-level options are a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a Ph.D. program. DNP is an alternate APRN route that emphasizes integrating research into clinical practice at a systems level. A Ph.D. in nursing is ideal for nurses who want to step back from direct bedside care and focus on a more research-based education. A nursing Ph.D. lets you discover and explore new nursing processes and ideologies on a deeper level.

Demand for nursing degrees

As more of the world’s population ages, the need for skilled healthcare professionals, like nurses with advanced degrees, becomes more critical. However, Data USA reports that 262,974 nursing degrees were conferred in 2022, a 1.38% decline from the previous year.

The 2023 State of Nursing Report by Nurse.org also reveals that 79% of nursing survey respondents say their units are understaffed. Ninety-one percent say the staffing shortage is getting worse.

The U.S. Bureaus of Labor Statistics says demand for advanced practice registered nursing roles will grow 38% from 2022 to 2032. It projects approximately 29,200 job openings each year to replace workers exiting the workforce.

If you need career services support after earning your graduate degree in nursing, MPOWER Financing’s Path2Success Program can help. MPOWER-funded international students have support starting with the visa application process and beyond school with internship and job search assistance, resume builder tools and a dedicated job directory for F-1 eligible STEM work opportunities.

5 jobs you can explore with a nursing degree

An advanced practice registered nursing degree can unlock lucrative career paths for international students. Below are a few jobs to consider, based on your selected specialty, and their average salary in the U.S. according to Glassdoor.

1. Nurse anesthetist

Nurse anesthetists, also known as certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), are responsible for preventing patients from feeling pain during medical treatment through the use of anesthesia. They develop and record a treatment plan, establish dosages, administer treatment and manage anesthesia levels that are appropriate and effective, based on the patient’s medical history and needs.

CRNAs are among the highest-earning specialists in the nursing field. Glassdoor data says the national median salary for CRNAs is US$372,000 per year.

2. Nurse educator

Nurse educators leverage their clinical backgrounds to teach new nurses advanced clinical curriculums. To stay informed on the latest developments in the nursing sector, nurse educators regularly perform research, keep abreast of practice environment challenges, and regularly sharpen pedagogical methods.

The median salary for nurse educators, based on Glassdoor data, is US$111,000 per year with the highest-paid nurse educators earning US$143,000.

3. Nursing informaticists

Nursing informatics is a subspecialty that combines science, technology and communication in one career. As a nursing informaticist, your work blends your clinical nursing knowledge within patient care and information science. You’re responsible for developing data and communication systems related to patient care in a way that’s efficient and cost-effective for the organization.

Nursing informaticists can expect to earn a medical pay of US$146,000, annually. Professionals paid at the high-end of the salary range for this job earn as much as US$189,000.

4. Nurse midwife

Certified nurse midwives support the reproductive and childbirth needs of women. They provide patient care across all reproductive stages, including performing preventative health screenings and tests, offering prenatal and postpartum care, and providing gynecological care using natural techniques and methods.

Nurse midwives earn an annual median salary of US$130,000 per year, with top-range earners making US$161,000.

5. Nurse practitioner

A nurse practitioner performs some of the basic responsibilities of a physician, like carrying out physician exams, requesting and analyzing diagnostic tests or imaging orders, diagnosing and treating certain health conditions, writing prescriptions, and documenting patients’ symptoms and care plans.

A nurse practitioner earns a median pay of US$151,000 annually with the highest-earning professionals earning US$181,000 per year.

Final thoughts: Earning a graduate nursing degree in the U.S.

Entering a graduate nursing program can be a challenging and rewarding area of study. There are plenty of specialties to pursue that offer competitive salaries after completing your program and securing the appropriate practice licenses.

However, before you can reap the advantages of an advanced practice nursing career, you’ll need to have enough funds to pay for your graduate program. When scholarship and grant funding isn’t enough, an MPOWER Financing international student loan could help you bridge the financial gap.

International study programs: Data Science

If you’ve chosen data science as your postgraduate international study program you can look forward to a multidisciplinary area of study that blends core concepts of computer science and statistics, among others.

Learn more about postgraduate data science programs, the popularity of this area of study, and the kind of careers and salaries an advanced degree in data science can unlock for you.

About data science programs

An M.S. in data science (MSDS) is a good option if you already have an undergraduate degree in a related field or are pivoting into a data science career. It typically takes about two years to complete and 30 curriculum credits, depending on your program’s requirements. You’ll develop a foundational knowledge of programming approaches, data structures and algorithms.

Advanced math and statistics courses are also generally required to understand concepts like regression-based modeling and predictive modeling. Since programming languages are an integral part of this area of study, you’ll build on your existing understanding of programming languages, like Python and SQL, and database languages. Depending on your program, you might also be required to take a course in data mining, deep learning or machine learning.

Toward the end of your program, you might have a required capstone project or thesis component to demonstrate your competency in the subject, which is necessary to earn your MSDS degree.

Data science might also be an attractive international study program among students, because it qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension after earning your master’s degree.

If you still need assistance with your visa application for graduate school, MPOWER Financing’s Path2Success Program for students with approved loans offers F-1 guidance, including visa interview preparation. It also provides internship and job search support specifically for STEM OPT students who are looking for H-1B visa-sponsored job opportunities.

Demand for data science degrees

Among graduate-level international students, pursuing a math and computer science field of study, like data science, is increasingly popular. The Institute of International Education’s latest 2023 Open Doors Report says that 240,230 (22.7%) international students enrolled in a math and computer science-related study program in 2022-23. That’s nearly a 20% increase in enrollment compared to the previous academic year.

Demand for data science skills is also growing in the employment market. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects rapid growth among data-related professions between 2021-31, with data scientists leading at 35% of data-related job growth.

Five schools with data science master’s programs from our list of over 500+ eligible schools:

- Michigan Technological University
- University of Maryland
- University at Buffalo
- University of Oklahoma
- University of the Pacific

5 jobs you can secure with a data science degree

Thanks to the multidisciplinary nature of MSDS programs, your job options outside of school are flexible. You can find many of the roles below throughout various industries, from health care, business, public policy and education.

1. Data scientist

Data scientists gather, organize and analyze data. You’ll be responsible for leveraging programs and statistical techniques to identify meaningful patterns and deliver impactful insights to key stakeholders in an organization. Although a master’s degree isn’t always required in this role, some employers require a master’s degree which typically leads to higher pay.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for data scientists in May 2023 was US$108,020. Data scientists working in scientific research and development earned the highest median wage at US$126,430, annually.

2. Data analytics manager

As a data analytics manager, you’ll oversee a team of specialists, like data scientists, statisticians and business analysts. In addition to organizing and leading your direct reports to work cooperatively toward the organization’s overarching goals, you’re responsible for managing critical projects and communicating findings, in layman’s terms, to stakeholders.

Data analytics managers fall under the broad category of operations research analysts which, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, earned a median wage of US$83,640 in 2023. Specifically, those in roles within mathematical science occupations saw higher median wages at US$101,460.

3. Enterprise architect

Enterprise architects create a roadmap between the business objectives of large organizations and the software architecture needed to support their goals. Their main focus is on IT strategy and ensuring existing processes and systems support the organization’s objectives; if there’s misalignment, an enterprise architect develops solutions to address this disconnect.

Glassdoor data shows the median total salary of an enterprise architect at US$210,000 per year with US$262,000 at the high-end of the pay range for this profession.

4. Statistician

Using mathematical theories and statistical applications, statisticians leverage data to solve business problems. Like data scientists, they’re responsible for gathering data using surveys, polls or other collection methods. They interpret and analyze the data and communicate their findings to stakeholders within the organization. Typically, this role requires an advanced degree, like an MSDS.

In May 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that statisticians earned a median annual wage of US$104,100. Statisticians who worked in computer systems design or related industry had the highest median annual earnings at US$140,850.

5. Machine learning engineer

If you’re fascinated with artificial intelligence (AI) models, working as a machine learning engineer might offer a professional challenge you’re looking for. You’ll research and develop machine learning algorithms, perform systems tests and conduct analysis of their performance. You’ll also collaborate with other data science specialists and stakeholders to support projects that serve the organization’s greater goals.

A machine learning engineer earns a median total salary of US$165,000 per year, based on Glassdoor data. The most competitive wages for this role is a median salary of US$211,000.

Final thoughts: Earning a data science degree in the U.S.

There’s a lot of opportunity with a master’s of science program in data science. It’s an in-demand area of study that can open six-figure career opportunities after earning your postgraduate degree. To access this competitive and lucrative profession, however, you’ll need to pay your way through your postgraduate degree first.

Securing scholarships and grants is the best way to pay for your international study program, but these aid sources don’t always cover all of your expenses. Some international student loan lenders recognize the long-term value that STEM degrees offer students. MPOWER Financing is here to support you throughout every step of your postgraduate journey, including international student loans if you need additional financing. See what MPOWER Financing student loans can offer.

What to do 24 hours before your visa interview

Before you can start your study abroad journey in the United States, you’ll need to apply for and obtain an F-1 student visa. And for that, you’ll need to successfully complete your F-1 visa interview. You’ll need to meet with a visa officer at your local U.S. embassy or consulate to discuss your academic plans.

The visa officer will collect your documents and ask you questions about where you plan to study and how you’ll support yourself financially during your time in the U.S. They’ll conduct the interview in English to make sure you have the language skills to succeed in your program.

While it’s natural to feel nervous leading up to your interview, there are plenty of steps you can take to prepare yourself. Here are some ways to get ready in the 24 hours leading up to your student visa interview.

1. Go over your documents

By the time you’re 24 hours out from your visa interview, you’ve probably gathered the necessary documents for the big day, but it’s still a good idea to review the list of documents you’ll need, including: .

- Passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay in the U.S.
- Confirmation page that you completed Form DS-160, the non-immigrant visa application
- Application fee receipt to show you paid the application fee
- Form I-20 or alternative certificate showing you’re eligible for an F-1 visa
- Passport-size photo

Some supplemental documentation you may also need to bring includes your:

- Transcripts
- Standardized test scores
- Financial documentation

Make sure you have everything organized and accessible in a folder or two. That way, you can easily grab the document you need upon the visa officer’s request.

2. Determine what you’ll wear

Plan to dress nicely so you can make a good impression on your interviewer. This could mean a buttoned shirt with slacks or a skirt or a dress.

Make sure your clothes for the next day are clean, ironed and ready to wear. Lay everything out the night before so you’re not scrambling in the morning.

3. Plan your route to the embassy

Look up directions to the U.S. embassy or consulate so you know how to get there and can arrange any necessary transportation. If you have time, try traveling there the day before so you know what to expect.

Consider printing out the directions or taking screenshots on your phone in case you lose service on the way there. Downloading a directions app that works offline, such as MAPS.me or HERE WeGo, could also be helpful.

Check the weather for the next day, too. If it’s going to rain, have an umbrella and rain jacket ready.

4. Make your morning as easy as possible

Consider anything else you can do to make your morning go as smoothly as possible before your interview. For instance, set a backup alarm in case your first one doesn’t go off.

Figure out what you’ll eat for breakfast, and opt for a balanced meal over a lot of sugar or caffeine that could make you jittery.

All this preparation will help you feel more calm and collected as you get ready for your interview, as well as prevent last-minute disruptions to your day.

5. Review common interview questions and answers

By this point, you’ve probably already practiced answering common interview questions. However, it can’t hurt to review your responses one more time.

Make sure you’re ready to talk about the school you’re attending and what you plan to study there. Show the interviewer you understand you can’t stay in the U.S. beyond the terms of your visa.

The visa officer might ask how you’ll financially support yourself throughout the program. Consider bringing a list of tuition and living costs to show you understand the expenses and have a plan to pay for them, whether through savings, student loans or a combined approach.

At the same time, don’t cram too much just before your interview. At this point, trust that the preparation you’ve done so far will be enough to make a good impression and secure your F-1 visa.

Make the most of the 24 hours before your visa interview

The big day is almost here, and you may be feeling nervous about your visa interview. But by taking these steps to prepare the day before, you can reduce your stress and feel more confident going into the embassy.

Remember the interviewer isn’t trying to trick you or deny you a visa. Their job is simply to make sure you’re a legitimate student who won’t overstay their visa and has the financial means to pay for their program.

By providing straightforward answers to their questions, you can pass your interview with flying colors. Plus, taking time the day before to review your documents and plan your morning prep steps will go a long way toward making the day go as smoothly as possible.

For more advice, check out these three essential tips for preparing for your F-1 visa interview.

Q&A: How can I show proof of funds for my Canadian study permit?

Over one million international students flocked to Canada in 2023 to earn a degree at one of its several hundred universities. If you’re hoping to study abroad in Canada, you’ll need to show proof of funds to obtain a Canadian study permit.

This means showing you have sufficient funds to pay for tuition and living expenses while you live in Canada. That money may come from savings, scholarships, student loans or a combination of sources.

If you’re wondering how to show proof of funds to study in Canada, read on to have all your questions answered.

What’s proof of funds?

Proof of funds means providing evidence you can support yourself financially while you study in Canada, along with any family members who are coming with you. Canadian immigration services, or Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), wants to see evidence you’ll be able to cover the costs of studying in Canada.

Why do you need to show proof of funds?

Living and studying in Canada comes with a variety of expenses, including tuition, university fees, textbooks, housing, food and travel. International students, however, are not eligible for government student loans or other benefits under the Canada Student Financial Assistance Program.

That’s why IRCC asks for proof you have enough funds on hand to cover your first year in school. You don’t usually need to show proof of funds for all four years of schooling upfront.

However, a Canadian officer will review your documentation to make sure there’s a high probability you’ll be able to afford future years.

What are the proof of funds requirements to study in Canada?

To study in Canada, you’ll need to show that you have or can access enough money to pay for tuition and fees. If your program costs CAN$15,000 per year, you’ll need to show at least that much to cover costs.

In addition to tuition fees, you’ll also need to show you can access CAN$20,635 for living expenses in all provinces except Quebec. The requirement is higher if you’re bringing family members with you:

Number of family members (including the student)	Amount required per year (doesn’t include tuition)
1	CAN$20,635
2	CAN$25,690
3	CAN$31,583
4	CAN$38,346
5	CAN$43,492
6	CAN$49,051
7	CAN$54,611
Each additional family member beyond 7 people	CAN$5,559

What documents do you need to provide?

When applying for your Canadian study permit, you’ll need to provide at least one of the following documents to verify your proof of funds, including:

Bank statements, either from a Canadian bank account in your name or your home country bank account with statements for the past four months
Bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a Canadian financial institution
Proof of a student loan from a bank or other acceptable lender
Proof you already paid tuition and housing fees upfront
Letter from a person or a school that’s giving you money
Proof you’re receiving funding from within Canada, such as a Canadian scholarship or funded educational program

Depending on the documents you provide to support your application, you may not be required to provide all of the documents listed above. Applicants with more complex or incomplete applications may have to go through a more thorough vetting process.

Preparing financially to study abroad in Canada

The cost of studying in Canada can vary significantly depending on the university you choose and the area where you live. To prepare financially, check out the cost of tuition and fees on your university’s website.

Do some research into the cost of living in your area, and estimate your expenses for housing, food, supplies and other daily expenses. You might also need extra money for traveling or extracurricular activities.

By doing this research upfront, you can prepare yourself financially to live and study in Canada. Even with savings and scholarships, you may find yourself in need of a student loan to cover costs.

MPOWER Financing specializes in student loans for international students studying in Canada and the U.S. MPOWER education loans don’t require a cosigner or collateral, so you don’t have to worry about asking your parents to take on debt with you.

Plus, MPOWER provides visa support assistance to help you through the Canadian study permit process if you’re approved for a loan. Learn more about MPOWER’s educational loans here.

Spring intake programs at MPOWER-eligible universities

Choosing the right major for your master’s can set the foundation for your future success. If you’re an international student navigating a new education system, MPOWER-eligible universities offer a diverse array of spring intake programs that not only escalate your academic potential but also enhance your career prospects. These universities offer postgraduate programs that are designed to advance your knowledge and streamline your financial approval process, ensuring quicker access to funds and bolstering your employability postgraduation.

MPOWER evaluates the current and future job market demands to ensure the eligibility of these majors for its loan program.

Here’s a snapshot of programs and schools where your academic journey can take flight this spring:

Business analytics

In a business analytics program, master’s students develop robust analytical skills that form the backbone of strategic decision-making across industries. The curriculum delves into advanced statistical methods, machine learning and big data analytics, preparing you to lead in tech-driven marketplaces.