Planning to work in Canada after graduation? Your Post-Graduation Work Permit, (PGWP) strategy needs to start before you even choose your study program. With significant changes implemented throughout 2024 and 2025, understanding the current requirements is crucial for international students who want to transition seamlessly from study to work in Canada.
The scene of PGWP eligibility has evolved dramatically, with new language requirements, updated field of study restrictions, and recent policy reversals that have reshaped the international student experience. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate these changes and ensure you’re positioned for PGWP success.
Understanding the Current PGWP Framework
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented a series of reforms aimed at aligning temporary resident populations with labour market needs. These changes affect different types of study programs in distinct ways, making it essential to understand where your chosen program fits within the current framework.
The most significant development came in March 2025, when Canada removed field of study requirements for graduates of college bachelor’s degree programs, providing greater flexibility for students in these pathways while maintaining restrictions for other program types.
Who Needs to Meet Field of Study Requirements?
The field of study requirements, introduced for applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024, apply selectively based on your level of education:
Programs Exempt from Field of Study Requirements:
- College bachelor’s degree programs (exemption added March 2025)
- University bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs
- PGWP-eligible flight schools
Programs Subject to Field of Study Requirements:
- College certificates, diplomas, and graduate certificates
- Other non-university, non-degree programs
This distinction is crucial for program selection. If you’re considering a college-level program that isn’t a bachelor’s degree, you must ensure it falls within the approved fields of study to maintain PGWP eligibility.
The Evolution of Eligible Fields of Study
The list of PGWP-eligible fields has undergone substantial changes throughout 2025, reflecting Canada’s shifting labour market priorities and policy adjustments.
Current Status (July 2025)
As of the most recent update on July 4, 2025, there are now over 1,100 fields of study eligible for PGWP consideration. This represents a significant expansion from earlier iterations of the policy.
Key Categories That Remain Strong:
- Healthcare and Social Services: Nursing, medical laboratory technology, social work, and related programs
- Education Programs: Early childhood education, teaching assistance, and educational support roles
- STEM Fields: Engineering technologies, computer science applications, and technical sciences
- Skilled Trades: Construction trades, automotive service, and technical maintenance programs
Notable Changes:
- Transport Programs: Completely removed from the eligible list as of June 2025
- Agriculture and Agri-food: Significantly reduced to only one eligible program
- Expanded Healthcare: 119 new programs added in key sectors including healthcare and education
How to Verify Your Program’s PGWP Eligibility
Success in securing PGWP eligibility requires careful verification of your program’s status. Follow these systematic steps:
Step 1: Identify Your Program’s CIP Code
Every study program in Canada is classified under the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system. To find your program’s CIP code:
- Visit Statistics Canada’s Official CIP Database: Search using your program’s title or field of study
- Review Program Descriptions: CIP codes are categorized by description, not just title—ensure the description matches your actual program content
- Check Your Institution’s Website: Most Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) now list CIP codes and PGWP eligibility status for their programs
- Contact Your School Directly: Academic advisors can confirm the exact 6-digit CIP code for your program
Step 2: Verify Current Eligibility Status
Once you have your CIP code, cross-reference it with the current eligible programs list on the Government of Canada website. Remember that this list changes periodically, so verify the information close to your application date.
Step 3: Understand Grandfathering Provisions
Students who submitted study permit applications before November 1, 2024, are generally exempt from field of study requirements. However, if you’re extending your studies or changing programs, new requirements may apply.
Language Requirements: A Universal Standard
All PGWP applicants (except flight school graduates) must now demonstrate language proficiency, regardless of their program type. These requirements took effect on November 1, 2024.
Language Proficiency Standards:
| Program Level | Required CLB/NCLC Level | Equivalent IELTS Scores |
|---|---|---|
| University degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral) | CLB/NCLC 7 | 6.0 in each skill area |
| College degrees (bachelor’s) | CLB/NCLC 7 | 6.0 in each skill area |
| Other university programs | CLB/NCLC 7 | 6.0 in each skill area |
| College certificates, diplomas, graduate certificates | CLB/NCLC 5 | 5.0 in each skill area |
Accepted Language Tests:
- English: IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General, PTE Core
- French: TEF Canada, TCF Canada
Important Language Test Considerations:
- Results must be valid at the time of PGWP application
- All four language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) must meet the minimum threshold
- You have 180 days after graduation to submit your PGWP application, so plan your test timing accordingly
Essential Eligibility Criteria Beyond Field of Study
Meeting field of study and language requirements is just the beginning. All PGWP applicants must satisfy these fundamental criteria:
Academic Requirements:
- Program Duration: Minimum 8 months (or 900 hours in Quebec)
- Institution Status: Must graduate from a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution
- Study Completion: Full-time enrollment throughout the program (part-time allowed only in final semester)
Application Timing:
- Submission Window: Within 180 days of receiving official confirmation of program completion
- Study Permit Status: Must have valid study permit status at some point during the 180-day window before application submission
Status Maintenance:
- Maintain legal status in Canada throughout studies
- Comply with all study permit conditions
- Ensure passport validity extends beyond intended work period
Strategic Planning for PGWP Success
For Prospective Students:
- Research Before You Apply: Verify both current and projected eligibility for your intended program
- Consider Program Level: College bachelor’s degrees now offer more flexibility than other college programs
- Plan Your Language Testing: Schedule tests well in advance of graduation to ensure valid results
- Monitor Policy Changes: Field of study lists are updated periodically—stay informed through official channels
For Current Students:
- Verify Your Program Status: Confirm your CIP code and current eligibility status with your institution
- Prepare for Language Testing: Begin language preparation early, especially if targeting CLB 7
- Document Everything: Maintain complete records of your academic progress and status changes
- Plan Application Timing: Coordinate graduation, language testing, and application submission within the 180-day window
Recent Policy Developments and Future Outlook
The PGWP scene continues to evolve rapidly. Key developments include:
- March 2025: Field of study requirements removed for college bachelor’s programs
- June 2025: Major overhaul of eligible fields, removing transport programs entirely
- July 2025: Restoration of some previously removed fields, expanding the eligible list to over 1,100 programs
IRCC has indicated that further changes to eligible fields of study are expected in early 2026, suggesting continued policy refinement based on labour market analysis and program outcomes.
Making Informed Decisions
The complexity of current PGWP requirements underscores the importance of informed decision-making throughout your Canadian education journey. Consider these factors when planning your path:
Program Selection Priorities:
- Career Alignment: Choose programs that match your long-term career goals
- PGWP Eligibility: Ensure your program meets current requirements
- Labour Market Demand: Consider sectors with strong employment prospects
- Personal Capabilities: Align program difficulty with your language and academic abilities
Risk Management:
- Maintain awareness of policy changes that could affect your eligibility
- Consider backup plans if your preferred program becomes ineligible
- Build language skills early to meet proficiency requirements confidently
The path to Canadian permanent residence through study and work has become more structured but remains achievable for well-prepared students. By understanding these requirements and planning strategically, you can position yourself for success in Canada’s evolving immigration landscape.
Success in securing a PGWP requires careful attention to detail, strategic planning, and staying current with policy changes. While the requirements have become more complex, they also provide clearer pathways for students who align their education with Canada’s labour market priorities.
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