U.S. vs Canada: What International Students Should Know
The basic assistantship idea is similar in both countries, but the surrounding rules differ.
In the United States for example,
For F-1 students, qualifying on-campus employment is generally limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session, with full-time work generally permitted during official breaks when the student is otherwise eligible.
U.S. immigration authorities specifically include assistantships among arrangements that can qualify as on-campus employment.
However, don’t assume that you can take any job because you have an assistantship.
Your university’s international student office should confirm that your employment arrangement complies with your immigration status.
In Canada
International students can work on campus when they meet the relevant study-permit conditions. Canada’s current guidance recognizes teaching and research assistant work connected to a student’s institution, including certain affiliated research locations.
The important lesson is simple:
An assistantship is both a funding opportunity and an employment arrangement.
So, Understand the immigration rules before accepting additional work.