Most young learners today opt to pursue office jobs, leading to a growing shortage of skilled trade professionals across the world. In Canada, the government is working to address this issue by actively inviting international students to seek opportunities there via their specialised trade programmes. Canada recognises 300 specialist trades, and offers hands-on training courses that helps individuals secure in-demand jobs. Trade courses in Canada can help you enjoy long-term career success in fields like construction, manufacturing, transportation, and more.
Key highlights:
- What are Trade Courses in Canada
- Most Popular Trade Courses in Canada for International Students
- How to Choose the Ideal Trade Course in Canada
- Eligibility Criteria to Pursue Trade Courses in Canada for International Students
What are Trade Courses in Canada
Skilled trade courses in Canada focus on helping individuals build a particular skill that enables them to directly enter the workforce. These programmes are designed for specific occupations. You will likely have to complete a skilled trade course to work in fields like construction, manufacturing, transportation, technology, and services.
Why Choose to Pursue Canada Trade Courses?
Quicker Route to Employment
Trade courses usually take at most two years. Since they’re shorter than regular university degrees, you can start working and earning faster.
Opportunities for Real-World Experience
Trade courses include apprenticeships and practical training as part of their curriculum, ensuring you gain real-world experience while training.
More Affordable Tuition Fees
Given the short duration of trade courses, you usually enjoy lower tuition costs than if you were to pursue a full-time university degree.
PGWP Eligibility
Students often choose to study in Canada to benefit from the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). When you pursue international trade courses in Canada from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you become eligible to apply for the PGWP and stay in the country for up to three years to seek employment opportunities.
Also Read: What You Must Know About PGWP in Canada
Most Popular Trade Courses in Canada for International Students
If you’re thinking of pursuing skill trade courses in Canada, you should consider one of these in-demand course options:
Electrician
Electricians are in very high demand in Alberta, Nova Scotia, and Ontario. In fact, the number of job openings will likely exceed the number of available workers in the near future. You can help bridge the gap by pursuing Electrical Apprenticeship and Electrical Techniques courses. Universities like British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), George Brown College, and Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT Polytechnic) offer PGWP-eligible electrician trade courses.
Welder
Welders work across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, aviation, and metal industries. Universities like BCIT and Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) have PGWP-eligible course options like Welding Techniques, Welding & Fabrication Technician, and Welding Engineering Technology.
Plumber
Plumbers continue to remain in high demand across provinces. One of the best trade courses for aspiring plumbers to pursue is Mechanical Techniques – Plumbing Fundamentals. Some of the top universities offering these courses include BCIT, NAIT, and George Brown College.
Carpenter
Carpenters work on everything from building frameworks to fine furniture. If you’re passionate about building something valuable, consider pursuing a Carpentry and Renovation Technician or Cabinetry and Woodworking Technology trade course at NAIT, BCIT, or George Brown College.
Cook or Culinary Professional
The hospitality sector relies on the skills of cooks and culinary professionals. You can join their ranks by pursuing Culinary Arts or Butchery and Charcuterie Management trade courses at Niagara College, Vancouver Community College, or Geroge Brown University.’
Also Read: PGWP-Eligible Colleges in Canada
How to Choose the Ideal Trade Course in Canada
Understand Your Strengths and Interests
Finding a trade course that aligns with your passions empowers you to enjoy a fulfilling career. Take a moment to reflect on what you enjoy doing and explore how it ties into your vision for the future.
Seek Expert Guidance
Speak to trade professionals and ask them about their experiences. Their stories can help you clearly understand what a trade job involves.
Research In-Demand Jobs
Do your research on the most in-demand trades in Canada. They will likely be the highest-paying trade jobs in Canada. Choosing a high-demand field can increase your chances of post-study work opportunities and long-term career success.
Eligibility Criteria to Pursue Trade Courses in Canada for International Students
Trade courses have very basic eligibility criteria. You must have a Class 12 certification and meet your selected university’s English language proficiency requirements. Most universities accept an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 or 6.5.
Canada’s robust trade course infrastructure enables international students to gain the skills required to secure in-demand job opportunities. However, moving to Canada for your education comes with significant financial considerations. Instead of putting your dreams on the back burner, consider opting for an education loan for abroad study from Avanse Financial Services. We provide hyper-personalised educational loans that cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and more. Ready to start building a better future? Call us to get the financing you need to turn your dreams into reality.
