Planning to Work in Canada After Graduation? Here’s How to Make Sure Your Study Program Qualifies for a Post-Graduation Work Permit
New PGWP Rules Introduced by IRCC Require Close Attention to Your Field of Study and Language Skills
If you’re an international student aiming to stay and work in Canada after graduation, it’s now more important than ever to plan ahead. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) remains one of the most accessible pathways to gain Canadian work experience—but recent changes introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have tightened eligibility for many study programs, particularly at the college level.
As of November 1, 2024, new field-of-study requirements and language proficiency standards apply to specific education levels, impacting thousands of students across the country.
What Are the New Field of Study Rules for PGWP Eligibility?
In response to growing concerns about the number of temporary residents in Canada, IRCC has introduced a labour market-driven model for PGWP eligibility. This means that certain international graduates—especially from college and non-degree programs—must now be enrolled in fields of study linked to in-demand occupations to qualify for a work permit.
Who Must Meet These Requirements?
The field of study criteria apply to students who submitted their study permit application on or after November 1, 2024, and are enrolled in:
| Level of Study | PGWP Field of Study Requirement |
|---|---|
| College bachelor’s degree | Not Required |
| University bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs | Not Required |
| Other university programs | Must match an eligible field of study |
| College diploma/certificate or non-university program | Must match an eligible field of study |
Ineligible programs—no matter their duration or institution—will no longer automatically lead to a PGWP unless they fall under the updated eligible categories.
How to Check If Your Program Qualifies
To make sure your study program is PGWP-eligible, follow these two steps:
Step 1: Find the Correct CIP Code and Title
Canada uses the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system to categorize all educational programs. To determine if your program qualifies:
- Visit the Statistics Canada CIP directory
- Search for your program title
- Read the description carefully—titles may be misleading, so match based on content
- Identify the 6-digit CIP code and title
You can also check your Designated Learning Institution’s (DLI) website. Many DLIs list the CIP codes and PGWP eligibility status of their programs. If uncertain, contact the registrar’s office or academic advisor.
Step 2: Confirm the Code Is PGWP-Eligible
After identifying your program’s CIP code:
- Cross-reference it using Canada’s PGWP eligibility tool or official eligibility list
- Confirm your program falls under one of the in-demand fields
Currently, the eligible fields for PGWP are:
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Education
- Health care and social services
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Skilled trades
- Transportation and logistics
This list is expected to be reviewed and updated in early 2026, so students applying beyond that date should reconfirm before finalizing their study plans.
Language Requirements Also Apply
In addition to field of study restrictions, IRCC has introduced language benchmarks that PGWP applicants must meet in either English or French.
| Level of Study | Minimum Language Requirement |
|---|---|
| College bachelor’s and university programs | CLB 7 |
| College diploma/certificate and non-degree programs | CLB 5 |
The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities. Your test results must show the minimum required level in all four skills.
Other General PGWP Eligibility Requirements
Regardless of your field or language score, you must also meet these baseline criteria:
- Complete a full-time program (except final semester) at a PGWP-eligible DLI
- The program must last at least 8 months (or 900 hours in Quebec)
- Apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation of program completion
- Hold a valid study permit at some point during the 180-day period prior to applying
- Maintain full-time enrollment during each academic session
Why This Matters
The PGWP offers up to 3 years of open work authorization in Canada, helping international graduates gain local work experience and transition to permanent residency under programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Failure to choose the right study program now could mean losing access to this crucial pathway.
Planning Ahead Is the Key to Success
International students planning to study in Canada in 2025 or beyond should:
- Confirm PGWP eligibility before enrolling
- Choose programs aligned with in-demand careers
- Meet language requirements before graduation
- Seek academic guidance or legal consultation early on
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
