PGWP Eligibility: How To Make Sure Your Study Program Qualifies

Nếu bạn là du học sinh quốc tế tại Canada và có dự định làm việc sau khi tốt nghiệp, điều quan trọng là bạn cần lên kế hoạch từ sớm để đảm bảo chương trình học mình chọn đủ điều kiện xin Giấy phép lao động sau tốt nghiệp (Post-Graduation Work Permit – PGWP).

From the end of 2024, the Canadian Government has changed its PGWP policy for some groups of international students, especially those studying in colleges or non-university programs. Accordingly, you must study the correct profession on the eligible list to be eligible to apply for a PGWP.

PGWP là gì?

The PGWP is an open work permit that allows international students to work in Canada after graduating from an eligible program. The PGWP can be valid for up to 3 years, depending on the length of study.

Having a PGWP is important because it helps you:

• Gain work experience in Canada.
• Improve your chances of obtaining permanent residency through immigration programs like Express Entry.

Who needs to meet the Field of Study Requirements?

Starting November 1, 2024, international students applying for study permits will be affected by the new policy, specifically:

Academic level	Are there any major requirements?
Bachelor's degree awarded by College	No
Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree from a university	No
The undergraduate program does NOT award a degree above	Yes
College or other (non-university) program	Yes

If you are in the group that must meet the study requirements, your program must be in an occupation that is in short supply in Canada, identified by a study area code (CIP code).

How do I know if my study program qualifies for PGWP?

Step 1: Determine the program's course code (CIP code)

• Truy cập trang thống kê mã ngành học chính thức của Canada: CIP – Classification of Instructional Programs.
• Find the major code and major name that best matches the program you are studying.
• Read the job description carefully to ensure it matches the course content.

Tip: Your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) usually provides information about your CIP course code and PGWP eligibility on its website. If you are unsure, contact the school directly to confirm the 6-digit CIP course code.

Step 2: Check if the industry code is on the PGWP eligibility list

Currently, only studies in the following fields are eligible for a PGWP if you are studying at a college or non-degree program:

• Agriculture and Agri-food
• Education
• Health Care and Social Services
• STEM ( Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math )
• Trades
• Transport

Note: This list may change as early as 2026.

Besides your field of study, what other requirements do you need to meet to be eligible for a PGWP?

1. English or French language requirements

Depending on your program of study, you must achieve a minimum score on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) as follows:

Academic level	Minimum CLB Points
Bachelor's degree	CLB 7
Bachelor, Master, PhD university	CLB 7
Other university programs	CLB 7
College or non-university program	CLB 5

2. General requirements for applying for PGWP

You need:

• Complete a program of study at a PGWP-eligible institution (DLI), lasting at least 8 months (or 900 hours for Quebec).
• Be a full-time student throughout the course (except the final semester when part-time study is permitted).
• Apply for PGWP within 180 days of graduation.
• The study permit is valid for part of the above 180-day period.

Conclusion: Prepare early to not miss the opportunity to settle down.

The new PGWP policy requires international students to choose the right major from the start. If you study the wrong major or do not meet the language requirements, you will not be able to apply for a post-graduation work permit, which means it will be difficult to stay in Canada to work and settle permanently.

Double check with your chosen school, identify the correct CIP course code and make sure it is on the PGWP eligible list.
Do you need advice on choosing the right major to qualify for PGWP and settle in Canada? Contact TTN immigration – A team of immigration experts in Canada ready to accompany you from choosing a school until receiving your permanent resident card.