A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Canadian students is now open with the Student Guide Program France Veterans Affairs Canada 2026. Through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) jobs Canada 2026, 16 post-secondary students will be hired to live and work in France for the summer. You will serve as a guide at two of Canada’s most significant national monuments: the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial. If you are seeking summer student jobs abroad that combine history, travel, and public service, this student guide jobs in France program is your chance to represent Canada on the world stage.
Student Guide Program France 2026 Overview
This table provides a summary of these bilingual student jobs overseas.
Property |
Details |
|---|---|
Employer |
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) |
Locations |
Vimy Memorial & Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial, France |
Pay Rate |
$18.84 – $21.60 per hour + $30/day living allowance |
Number of Jobs |
16 |
Duration |
May 4, 2026 – August 20, 2026 |
Eligibility |
Full-time post-secondary students (returning in Fall 2026) |
Language |
Bilingual (English and French) Essential |
Application Deadline |
January 5, 2026 |
Contact |
vac.guideprogram-programmeguides.acc@veterans.gc.ca |
About the Student Guide Program
This official recruitment is managed by Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), the federal department dedicated to honoring the service of Canada’s veterans. The program hires students to act as youth ambassadors, welcoming visitors from around the globe to these sacred sites. As a guide, you will be immersed in Canadian history guide jobs while gaining exceptional experience in public speaking and heritage interpretation. This is a trusted Canadian student employment program verified by the Government of Canada’s FSWEP system.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
As a Student Guide, you will be the face of Canada for thousands of visitors. Your duties will include:
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Guided Tours: Providing interpretive tours of preserved battlefields, trenches, and underground tunnels in both English and French.
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Historical Education: Explaining Canadian military history and answering questions about local points of interest and the significance of the memorials.
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Ambassadorship: Representing Canada as a youth ambassador, engaging with visitors from diverse backgrounds with professionalism and respect.
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Site Operations: Working variable schedules including weekends and holidays, and maintaining the site’s professional appearance (uniforms required).
Required Qualifications and Eligibility
To qualify for these Vimy Memorial student jobs, you must meet strict criteria:
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Student Status: Must be a full-time post-secondary student currently enrolled and returning to full-time studies in the next academic year.
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Language: Must be fluent in both official languages (English and French). You need to be able to provide detailed descriptions and support opinions in your second language.
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Citizenship: Preference is given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. A valid Canadian passport and work visa for France are required.
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Driver’s License: A valid Canadian driver’s license (no GDL restrictions) and an International Driving Permit are mandatory to operate government vehicles in Europe.
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Certifications: Valid First Aid and CPR certificates are required before the start date.
Benefits and Work Conditions
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Compensation: Guides earn $18.84 to $21.60 per hour plus a tax-free daily living allowance of $30.00 to help cover food and incidentals.
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Housing: Subsidized housing is available for approximately $300 per month, deducted directly from your pay.
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Travel: While you must pay for your initial travel to France, successful completion of the contract may make you eligible for a reimbursement of up to $1,000 CAD for airfare.
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Skills: This role offers unparalleled opportunities to develop public speaking, leadership, and cross-cultural communication skills.
How to Apply for the Student Guide Program
The application process for this federal student work program Canada is competitive.
Application Deadline: January 5, 2026
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Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the FSWEP criteria and can obtain all necessary documents (passport, visa, etc.).
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Apply Online: Submit your application through the FSWEP portal. Ensure you answer “Bilingual – English and French” for your language ability.
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Self-Declare: You are encouraged to self-declare if you belong to an Employment Equity group to support workforce diversity.
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Assessment: If selected, you may undergo testing and interviews to demonstrate your language proficiency and suitability for the role.
For specific questions, email vac.guideprogram-programmeguides.acc@veterans.gc.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to be fluent in French?
Yes, fluency in both English and French is essential. You must be able to conduct complex tours and answer questions in both languages.
2. Is accommodation provided?
Veterans Affairs Canada offers subsidized housing for guides. If you choose this option, the rent is deducted from your pay.
3. Can I apply if I am graduating this spring?
To be eligible for FSWEP, you typically must be returning to full-time studies in the next academic year. You will need to provide an attestation confirming your intent to return to school.
