
Summer is a great time for university students to earn some money and gain valuable work experience. There are a variety of options available, from temporary jobs to internships, and even the opportunity to start your own business. Many universities offer summer jobs to students in areas such as accommodation, administration, and events. Additionally, governments and private organizations often provide summer employment programs to help students gain transferable skills and support their career goals. For those seeking more flexibility, online work or freelance opportunities can be a good option. With careful planning and the right resources, university students can find summer jobs that align with their interests and career aspirations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Job Type | Full-time, part-time, internships, on-campus, paid, etc. |
| Location | Local area, on-campus, online |
| Industry | Retail, hospitality, research, agriculture, finance, tech, healthcare, leisure, etc. |
| Employer Preferences | High GPA, school year, graduation dates |
| Work Authorization | Sponsorship or other support for international students |
| Timing | Start looking by February, apply by May or June |
| Sources | University job boards, Handshake, UEA, Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP), temp agencies, event staff agencies, private student housing companies, job sites (e.g., Indeed Flex, CV-Library) |
| Other Considerations | Payment, career-related experience, contract details, tax facts |
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What You'll Learn

Finding a summer job at your university
The summer vacation is a great time for university students to earn some money and gain valuable work experience. If you're looking for a summer job at your university, there are several options to consider.
On-Campus Jobs
Most universities require temporary staff over the summer for administrative and clerical work, accommodation offices, and student housing. These jobs can range from one-off tasks to positions that last the entire summer. Check your university's website for job postings, and keep an eye out for applications starting around early July. Administration work can be a great addition to your CV, helping you develop IT skills, report writing, and organisational abilities.
Research Opportunities
If you're interested in gaining research experience, consider applying for research programs or internships offered by federal or provincial departments and agencies. These programs allow you to conduct research in your field of study while earning a salary. For example, the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) in Canada offers full and part-time job opportunities to students.
Summer Programs
Many governments and organisations offer summer employment programs specifically for students. For instance, the Ontario government in Canada provides up to 5,000 students with full-time, temporary summer jobs across the province. These positions can last from 7 to 18 weeks, usually between May and September, and are a great way to develop transferable skills.
Events and Festivals
If you enjoy a more dynamic work environment, consider working at events or festivals held near your university during the summer. These could include sports events, county shows, beach events, or food festivals. Contact the organisers to inquire about recruitment or apply to event staff agencies that help recruit staff for paid and voluntary festival jobs. Working at summer camps is another fun option, offering the opportunity to work outdoors and meet new people.
Online Job Platforms
Make use of online job platforms, such as Job Bank in Canada, which advertises a wide range of private and public sector jobs, including those funded by the Canada Summer Jobs program. Set up email alerts or job matching services to be notified when suitable positions become available.
Remember to tailor your CV to the job you're applying for, highlighting relevant skills and experiences. It's also important to know your rights and understand the payment details before committing to any summer job.
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Applying for internships
If you're a university student looking for an internship, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, decide on the type of internship you're interested in and whether it aligns with your career goals. This could be in your field of study or in an industry you're curious about.
Research and Timing
Research potential internship opportunities by checking websites that cater specifically to student jobs, such as Handshake, which partners with colleges to offer relevant internships. Government websites also often list internship programs, especially those aimed at students. University websites are another great resource, as they usually have a dedicated jobs section with opportunities for current students.
The timing of your internship search is crucial. Many internships have specific application deadlines and milestones to meet, so staying organized and starting your search early is essential. February is often recommended as a good time to begin, giving you ample time to prepare your application materials, such as resumes and cover letters.
Application Process
When applying for internships, pay close attention to the requirements and preferences of the employer. Some may prioritize candidates with a high GPA or look for certain school years or graduation dates. If you're an international student, be sure to clarify your work authorization status and sponsorship needs.
Don't hesitate to reach out to your university's career services center for guidance. They can provide valuable support with interviewing skills, resume writing, and other application-related tasks. They may even offer feedback on your application documents before submission.
Additional Tips
- Follow up after submitting your application. It shows enthusiasm and helps keep you in the loop regarding the selection process.
- Consider setting up job alerts to be notified when new internship opportunities arise.
- If you self-identify as Indigenous, look into internships offered through partnerships between governments and Indigenous communities.
- Law students can explore summer law student programs or articling student positions with government bodies.
Remember, internships are a great way to gain valuable experience and build your professional network, so don't be afraid to put yourself out there and apply for internships that align with your interests and career aspirations!
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Working at events and festivals
If you're a university student looking for a summer job working at events and festivals, there are a few different avenues you can explore.
First, consider what type of work you're interested in. Festival and event jobs can encompass a wide range of roles, including catering, chef, hospitality, cleaning, serving, and bar work. Think about your skills and experience, and whether you have any relevant qualifications or training.
Next, start your search by looking up your favourite festivals online to see if they are recruiting for volunteers or paid positions. You can also apply to event staff agencies that recruit for both voluntary and paid festival jobs. Keep an eye out for big events held near your university or hometown during the summer, such as sports events, county shows, beach events, or food festivals, and contact the organisers to inquire about job opportunities.
Another option is to look for summer jobs with companies that provide services for events and festivals. For example, you could seek out temporary catering, chef, or hospitality roles with companies that specialise in event catering. These companies often offer flexible work at various locations and events, allowing you to choose shifts that work for you.
Don't forget to research the companies and roles you're applying for. This will give you a better understanding of the work and can help you stand out during the interview process. It's also important to know upfront whether the role is paid or voluntary, so you can plan your finances for the summer accordingly.
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Making money online
Freelancing
Freelancing offers university students a flexible way to make money online. You can offer services such as graphic design, content writing, coding, web design, or social media management. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and TaskRabbit are great places to find freelance gigs.
Online Surveys and Focus Groups
A simple online search can help you find legitimate paid survey and focus group opportunities. These usually involve testing products or giving your opinion for market research. Remember to verify the company before sharing personal information.
Online Teaching and Tutoring
If you excel in a particular subject, consider offering tutoring services to fellow students or younger pupils. You can also check with your university's employment office or local schools for online teaching opportunities.
Photography and Stock Images
If you have a good eye for photography, you can sell your photos online through stock photo sites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or iStockphoto. Building a portfolio on Instagram or a personal website can also help attract clients.
Online Selling
You can sell various items online, including art, clothing, craft projects, jewellery, and second-hand items. Platforms like Etsy and eBay are great for reaching potential buyers.
Translation and Interpreting Services
If you're fluent in multiple languages, you can offer translation and interpreting services online. Many businesses and organizations need help bridging language barriers, so these skills are often in high demand.
Remember to be cautious when sharing personal information online and to verify the legitimacy of any opportunities before proceeding.
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Finding a job through the government
University students can find summer jobs through the government in several ways. Firstly, they can explore government websites for job postings. For instance, the Government of Canada's youth employment website offers information on jobs with the federal government. Similarly, the Ontario government in Canada provides a summer jobs website for students aged 15 to 29. This site offers a range of full-time temporary positions lasting 7 to 18 weeks during the summer.
Additionally, students can apply for government hiring programs, such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) in Canada, which offers full-time and part-time job opportunities across the country. The Ontario government also offers programs like Summer Company, which provides business training and funding of up to $3,000 for students to start their own summer businesses.
University students from Indigenous communities or with an interest in Aboriginal law can apply for the Aboriginal Summer Law Program through the Ministry of Natural Resources in Ontario. This program offers an 8-week summer job for up to 3 consecutive summers.
Students can also gain research experience through their host university with financial support. They can apply for internships or fellowships, particularly in their final year of study, to work on industry-driven research and development projects.
Lastly, students can check with their university's career services or local Jobcentre, as suggested by the University of Waterloo, to find summer job opportunities, including temporary positions within the university itself.
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Frequently asked questions
You can find summer job opportunities at your university, on job websites, or through a temp agency. Your university may have temporary positions available over the summer in areas like accommodation, admin, and events. Job websites like Indeed Flex, Handshake, and CV-Library offer a variety of temporary roles and summer internships. Temp agencies can also help you find short-term work contracts with good pay in fields like admin, customer service, sales, and more.
Summer jobs can vary depending on your interests and goals. If you want to boost your CV, consider administration work or working at events and festivals. Retail work is a great way to earn cash over the summer, and you might be able to continue working with reduced hours once the school year starts. Hospitality jobs, such as working in cafes, bars, and restaurants, often provide flexible hours and benefits like free food. If you're looking for more flexibility, you can try making money online through affiliate marketing or freelancing.
If you're looking for summer jobs related to your field of study, consider applying for internships or research programs. Websites like Handshake allow you to search for summer internships within specific industries, such as finance, tech, healthcare, or leisure. If you're in Canada, you can apply for the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Research Affiliate Program, which offers opportunities to conduct research in your field of study while earning a salary.
Yes, there are government programs that can assist you in finding summer employment. In Ontario, Canada, the government and its partners offer programs to help students find summer jobs, particularly for those with limited work experience. The OPS, provincial agencies, and community groups provide thousands of jobs for students across the province each year. Additionally, if you self-identify as Indigenous, you can apply for an 8-week summer job through the Ministry of Natural Resources, which can be renewed for up to 3 consecutive summers.











































