If you’re an international student planning to study in Canada and want to work after graduation, it’s important to make the right choices before you even apply. To get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you must study at the right school and choose a program that qualifies for a work permit. Let’s break it all down in simple terms.
Why PGWPs Matter
A PGWP is an open work permit. This means you can work for almost any employer in Canada. It gives you a chance to gain valuable Canadian work experience, which is important if you plan to apply for permanent residency in the future. For example, programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) require at least one year of Canadian work experience.
Step 1: Make Sure Your School Is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
To apply for a study permit, you must first get a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). These are the only schools approved by the Canadian government to admit international students. If your school isn’t a DLI, your study permit application will be refused.
How to Check if Your School Is a DLI:
- Visit the IRCC DLI List webpage.
- Scroll to the section called “List of designated learning institutions by province/territory.”
- Select the province or territory where your school is located.
- Use the search box to find your school. You’ll see its DLI number and whether it offers PGWP-eligible programs.
If you can’t find your school, double-check that it’s not a primary or secondary school (these are DLIs by default). If it’s still not listed, contact the school directly to confirm its DLI status.
Step 2: Confirm That Your Program Is PGWP-Eligible
Just because your school is a DLI doesn’t mean all its programs qualify for a PGWP. You need to make sure your specific program is eligible. Starting November 1, 2024, new rules apply. Some students must meet additional language skills and choose programs linked to in-demand jobs in Canada.
Here’s what you need to know:
Level of study | Language requirements | Field of study requirements
| Level of study | Language requirements | Field of study requirements |
|---|---|---|
| College / University bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral programs | English or French language proficiency equivalent to a level 7 CLB/NCLC in all four language abilities. | N/A |
| University programs not listed above | English or French language proficiency equivalent to a level 7 CLB/NCLC in all four language abilities. | Must have graduated from an eligible field of study. |
| College program or other non-university program | English or French language proficiency equivalent to a level 5 CLB/NCLC in all four language abilities. | Must have graduated from an eligible field of study. |
How to Check If Your Program Matches
Canada uses something called the CIP system (Classification of Instructional Programs) to describe academic programs. You can search for your program on Statistics Canada’s website using keywords from your course title. Find the 6-digit CIP code that best matches your program. Then check a dedicated government table to see if your program is PGWP-eligible.
This step is very important. If you pick the wrong program or CIP code, it could affect your eligibility for a PGWP and even future permanent residency options. It’s a good idea to speak with a trusted immigration consultant if you’re unsure.
PGWP Rules You Must Follow as a Student
PGWPs are only given once in a lifetime. So you must make sure you follow all the rules during your studies in Canada. Here’s what you need to do:
- Complete a full-time academic, vocational, or professional training program that lasts at least 8 months at a DLI.
- The program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Stay a full-time student during every semester of your studies.
- After graduating, you must get an official transcript and a graduation letter from your school. You need to include these in your PGWP application.
- Graduate from one of the following:
- A public post-secondary institution (college, university, technical/trade school, or CEGEP in Quebec).
- A private institution in Quebec that follows the same rules as public institutions.
- A private school in Quebec offering programs of 900+ hours that lead to a DEP or ASP.
- A Canadian private institution authorized to give out degrees like bachelor’s or master’s, but only if your program leads to one of those degrees.
Important: Being eligible for a PGWP doesn’t guarantee you’ll get one. You still need to be admissible to Canada at the time you apply. This means no major health or criminal issues, and you must still show that your intent is temporary (to study and gain experience, not to overstay).
How Long Will Your PGWP Be Valid?
The length of your PGWP depends on your program duration and level of study.
For master’s programs:
| Length of Study | PGWP Validity |
|---|---|
| At least 8 months (or 900 hours in Quebec) | Up to 3 years, even if the program is less than 2 years (effective Feb 15, 2024) |
For all other programs:
| Length of Study | PGWP Validity |
|---|---|
| At least 8 months (or 900 hours in Quebec), but less than 2 years | Same as program duration |
| 2 years or more | Up to 3 years |
If you’ve completed more than one PGWP-eligible program, your work permit length may take both into account.
Can I work after graduation if my program is not PGWP-eligible?
No. You must graduate from a PGWP-eligible program at a DLI. If not, you won’t qualify for a post-graduation work permit.
Can I get a PGWP if I study part-time?
No. You must be a full-time student during your entire program. Only exceptions apply for the final semester or certain approved leaves.
What happens if I take a break from studies?
If the break isn’t approved by your school and doesn’t meet IRCC rules, it can affect your PGWP eligibility. Always talk to your school and an immigration expert before taking a break.
Does online study affect PGWP eligibility?
Post-COVID policies allowed some online study, but rules are stricter now. If you’re starting your studies in 2025, check the latest IRCC guidelines to confirm.
Can I get a PGWP twice if I do another program?
No. PGWPs are only given once. Plan your education carefully so you make the most of your one-time opportunity.
What’s the easiest way to know if my program and school qualify?
Check the DLI list, confirm PGWP-eligibility on the IRCC site, and find your program’s CIP code. If you’re still unsure, consult with a licensed immigration expert like Ask Kubeir.
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CREDIT: CIC NEWS
