Alternating Study and Internships

In fall 2017, the Université de Sherbrooke launched a pilot project to open certain co-op programs to international students. Subject to their obtaining the appropriate work permit, this pilot project allows selected students to complete one or more paid internships as part of their curriculum.

What Is COOP at UdeS?

The Université de Sherbrooke was the first university to incorporate the co-op system into its programs over 50 years ago. Its program is the most renowned in Quebec and ranks second in Canada for its scope.

Co-op programs allow students to alternate 15-week trimesters of study with 15-week trimesters of work experience. Depending on their program of study, students who opt for the co-op program complete 3 to 5 paid internships in companies or research laboratories in Sherbrooke or elsewhere in Quebec and in the world. And the University finds the internships for them! Students earn an average of C$10,000 per internship and gain a year of work experience in their field of study before graduation.

Example of a Co-Op Study Pathway

Each academic year is divided into three 15-week trimesters:

• Fall (September to December)
• Winter (January to April)
• Summer (May to August)

The pathway varies depending on whether you start your program in the fall or winter.

Legend: S = Study session W = Work internship

    1^st year                     2^nd year                 3^rd year                4^th year

FAL  WIN  SUM      FAL   WIN   SUM      FAL  WIN  SUM      FAL WIN

S-1   S-2   W-1        S-3    W-2    S-4       W-3   S-5    W-4      S-6    –

 –      S-1     –          S-2    W-1    S-3       W-2   S-4    W-3      S-5   S-6

The Process

The first step is to check the list below to see if the program of study that interests you is included in the pilot project. If so, you simply submit a regular application for admission, making sure to select the co-op program on the admission form.

During your first trimester of study, the Université de Sherbrooke's internship and professional development department will help you update your CV and prepare for your interviews. This is because you can apply for more than one job and have more than one interview before being hired by an employer. Once hired, you will be an integral part of their team and carry out real tasks adapted to your level of knowledge.

Eligibility Criteria

• All applicants must meet the general admission requirements and the specific requirements of the co-op program they have chosen.
• In addition to these requirements, admitted students have to take preparatory training for the cooperative internship to familiarize themselves with Quebec's distinctive features. They will then be invited to follow the cooperative pathway, composed of capsules, quizzes, and informative courses to help them prepare their CV, cover letter, and interviews. This training must be completed stay in the co-op program and obtain an internship.
• Students must have a valid co-op work permit and study permit.

• Enrich your CV with concrete experience and accumulate a year or more of experience even before the end of your studies.
• Gain experience in preparing for an interview.
• Carry out actual projects related to your field of study.
• Confirm your interest in your field of study.
• Develop your skills and professional qualities.
• Receive an average salary of $10,000 per internship, depending on field and location.
• Develop a network of useful contacts for your future job search.

For More Information

• Contact the person in charge of the program if you have questions about admission or eligibility.
• For questions about internship placement and the process of obtaining a mandatory work permit, please contact the internship and professional development department.

Thirty-four study programs are part of the pilot project and a limited number of seats are allocated for each, subject to internship availability.

Programmes avec stages déjà ouverts aux internationaux 

Last update : August 7 2020