Work Program

Work Program FAQs

Can international students apply?

Level I, full-time international students may apply via AwardSpring for the Summer Work Program. After completing Level I or higher of an undergraduate program of study, international students can apply for both the Fall/Winter Work Program and/or the Summer Work Program. International students participating in the Work Program require a valid study permit and must be living in Canada during their period of employment in the fall, winter and/or summer terms. Learn more about working while you study.

How much money can I expect to make?

Employers are obligated to pay an hourly wage of at least the Ontario Minimum Wage; however, many employers pay more. Check the job posting for the rate of pay. The Fall/Winter Work Program allows students to work a maximum of 10 hours per week. Summer Work Program jobs may be part- or full-time to a maximum of 40 hours per week.

How long does it take to receive work program approval? Where can I review the status of my application?

Please allow one full business day for a decision on your work program application. A status of Awarded ($1) means you are eligible to participate in the work program.

Can I have more than one work program job?

No. Students can hold only one work program position at a time.

Why aren’t I matched with any need-based opportunities?

To be eligible for need-based aid such as bursaries and the work program, your  OSAP/government aid assessment must show an entitlement of at least $1. Once your application has an assessment, you’ll be able to review and apply for needs-based aid on AwardSpring within two business days.

Can I apply for the work program if I don’t receive OSAP?

The work program is for students who have financial need, which is primarily determined by applying and qualifying for OSAP.

If you are not eligible to apply for OSAP for a valid reason (i.e., you are an out of province student or you have an OSAP restriction), you will be assessed a need score based on  the information provided on your AwardSpring application.

If it is determined that you demonstrate need, the need score will be recorded on Mosaic and passed to AwardSpring, allowing you to apply for need-based aid.

CHECK OUT WHAT’S GOING ON!

Guide to AwardSpring – Your scholarship and bursary platform

Guide to AwardSpring – Your scholarship and bursary platform Event

What is AwardSpring? The AwardSpring platform is where McMaster students go to find and apply for internal scholarship and bursary...

Your guide to applying for full-time OSAP

Your guide to applying for full-time OSAP Event

Are you eligible for full-time OSAP and need help applying? Then this guide is for you! Read on to learn...

Webinar: Help applying for OSAP

Webinar: Help applying for OSAP Event

Join Student Services for an online webinar that offers new students and their families, information and guidance on how to...

Intro to OSAP

Intro to OSAP Event

View our video tutorial above for the common practices on applying to OSAP. To calculate your course load, you can...