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Study and Stayâ„¢ Capstone program FAQÌý

What is this program?Ìý

Full Answer: The Capstone Program is a free, 10-month program for international students in their final year of study at a post-secondary institution in Nova Scotia. It helps you prepare for your career and future in the province by offering:Ìý

• Connections with local employers, professionals, and community leadersÌý

• One-on-one mentorship with an industry expertÌý

• Workshops and resources to improve your job search and career preparation skillsÌý

• Confidence to apply for jobs and succeed in the workplaceÌý

• A stronger sense of belonging in Nova ScotiaÌý

• Intercultural and professional communication skills to thrive in a global job marketÌý

Short Answer: A free, 10-month program for final-year international students that provides mentorship, career workshops, and employer connections to prepare you for your future in Nova Scotia.Ìý

Who is eligible?Ìý

You can apply if you:Ìý

• Are an international student in your final year of studies at a recognized post-secondary institution in Nova ScotiaÌý

• Have a valid study permit and will be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) upon graduationÌý

• Can commit to participating in program activities such as mentorship meetings, workshops, and networking eventsÌý

I’m graduating in December 2025. Can I apply?Ìý

Yes. As long as you are an international student in your final year of study at a recognized post-secondary institution in Nova Scotia, you are eligible to apply. This includes students graduating in December 2025, as well as those completing their studies in Spring or Summer 2026.Ìý

What are the selection criteria?Ìý

The selection committee looks for participants who demonstrate a strong interest in building their lives in Nova Scotia. Be sure to highlight this in your letter of intent. We also value students who are engaged in their communities and institutions. If you have family already living in Nova Scotia, we encourage you to mention that as well.Ìý

What are the benefits of joining?Ìý

Full Answer: By joining the Capstone Program, participants will:Ìý

• Gain employer connections through exclusive networking opportunitiesÌý

• Have access to a possible Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunityÌý

• Build a professional network that can open future career doorsÌý

• Receive personalized career guidance from an experienced industry mentorÌý

• Increase self-confidence in job search and workplace communicationÌý

• Learn how to stand out in the labour market and gain a competitive edgeÌý

• Become part of a supportive community of students, mentors, and professionalsÌý

Short Answer: You’ll gain mentorship, career guidance, networking opportunities, and the chance to build a strong professional network, all designed to help you feel confident and prepared for your future in Nova Scotia.Ìý

Why should I apply?Ìý

Full Answer: This program is for students who want to:Ìý

• Set themselves apart from other job seekersÌý

• Build strong connections with employers before graduationÌý

• Enter the job market feeling more prepared and confidentÌý

• Learn the unwritten rules of Canadian workplace cultureÌý

• Develop career skills that will benefit them in Nova Scotia, across Canada, and globallyÌý

Short Answer: Because it helps you stand out, connect with employers, feel confident about entering the job market, and gain skills you can use in Nova Scotia and beyond.Ìý

How do I apply?Ìý

1. Create your iCent profile and log in to the iCent Web App.
2. Complete the online application form (sections on studies, experiences, and interests) by clicking the "Apply Now!" menu and the "+" button in the bottom right corner of your screen.
3. Upload your Letter of Intent explaining why you want to join the program.
4. The selection committee will review your application, and you may receive a short phone call to confirm details.
5. You’ll receive an email with the final decision.

How much does it cost?Ìý

There is no cost to participate. The program is fully funded by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Nova Scotia Department of Advanced Education, allowing students to access mentorship, workshops, events, and resources at no cost.Ìý

What will I do in the program? (Program Timeline)Ìý

October – DecemberÌý

Orientation, needs assessment, Capstone Cohort Retreat, career development workshops, small group discussions with a Career StrategistÌý

January – MarchÌý

Career workshops (mentorship skills, personal branding, LinkedIn, resumes, cover letters, professional communication), small group discussions with a Career Strategist, mentorship matching, intercultural assessment and learning, networking opportunities (e.g., BEST Conference)Ìý

April – JuneÌý

Ongoing mentorship meetings, mid-term feedback, networking opportunities, extra career supports, final Career Strategist discussionsÌý

June – JulyÌý

Program graduation, final program evaluationÌý

What is a mentorship program?Ìý

A mentorship program connects you with an experienced professional. Your mentor will support you by:Ìý

• Answering questions about your career pathÌý

• Sharing insights about industry trendsÌý

• Offering advice on job search strategiesÌý

• Helping you build confidence as you transition into the workforceÌý

Mentorship is one of the key benefits of the Capstone Program.Ìý

What is a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunity?Ìý

A Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunity is a practical, hands-on experience that connects your academic studies with the workplace. It enables you to apply what you’ve learned in class to real-world projects, helping you develop valuable career skills. Examples include: Internships, Co-op terms, Project work with employersÌý

How much time will I need to commit?Ìý

On average, expect 2–4 hours per month for mandatory workshops, mentorship meetings, and networking events. To graduate, you must complete at least 80% of mandatory activities. Optional workshops and activities are also available if you’d like to build more skills and connections.Ìý

Will the program guarantee me a job post-graduation?Ìý

No, the program does not guarantee employment. Instead, it provides tools, resources, and networking opportunities to help you build connections and better understand Nova Scotia’s work culture, increasing your chances of success.Ìý

Will the program provide immigration advice or counselling?Ìý

During the program, you will have access to exclusive immigration workshops and the opportunity to ask questions. However, one-on-one immigration counselling is not provided.Ìý

How successful has the program been in the past?Ìý

The program has a strong track record. For example, 92% of graduates from Cohort 8 are now working and living in Nova Scotia after graduation.Ìý

How will I know the status of my application?Ìý

All applicants will be contacted by email by {DATE} regarding their application.Ìý

What happens if I can’t make the retreat?Ìý

If you cannot attend the retreat, please explain your situation in your application. Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.Ìý

What happens if I miss the deadline?Ìý

No applications submitted after the deadline {DEADLINE DATE} will be considered unless an extension is officially announced in advance.Ìý

Can my spouse access the program support as well?Ìý

No, program support is only available to selected participants. However, you are encouraged to share what you learn with your spouse, partner, or friends to help them establish themselves in Nova Scotia.Ìý

Glossary of Key TermsÌý

• Mentorship – A relationship where an experienced professional (mentor) gives advice, guidance, and support to help you grow in your career.Ìý

• Networking – Meeting people in your industry or community to share ideas, make connections, and learn about opportunities.Ìý

• Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) – A hands-on work experience related to your field of study, such as an internship, co-op, or project with an employer.Ìý

• Digital Branding – The way you present yourself online, especially on LinkedIn, to show your skills and experience.Ìý

• Career Strategist – A professional who helps you plan your career, prepare for jobs, and build confidence.Ìý

• IDI (Intercultural Development Inventory) – A tool to help you understand your own cultural awareness and how you work with people from different backgrounds.Ìý

• BEST Conference – A professional event where students can meet employers, learn about industries, and practice networking.Ìý