PGWP Canada 2024: Ensure Your Study Program Qualifies

How to Make Sure Your Study Program Is Eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada

Planning to stay and work in Canada after graduation? If you’re an international student, one of the most important steps you can take is making sure your study program qualifies for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). With recent changes to PGWP eligibility — especially for non-university programs — it’s more important than ever to plan ahead.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to ensure your program meets the latest requirements and keeps your Canadian post-graduation goals on track.

Key Highlights

• New PGWP regulations apply to study permit applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024
• Field of study requirements now apply to college and non-degree university programs
• Eligible programs must align with in-demand occupations in Canada’s labour market
• You must identify the correct CIP code and ensure it’s on the eligible list
• Language proficiency and general criteria must also be met for PGWP approval
• Programs in fields like health care, STEM, and trades are currently PGWP-eligible

Why Your Study Program Matters for Your PGWP

In late 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced new rules around the PGWP to help address Canada’s growing temporary resident population. These updates limit PGWP eligibility based on your level of study and whether your program relates to an in-demand field in Canada’s job market.

So, what does this mean for you? If you’re planning to study in a college diploma program or a non-degree university program, you’ll need to make sure your chosen field of study is on the PGWP-approved list. These rules only apply to study permits submitted on or after November 1, 2024 — but if you’re applying now or soon, they likely apply to you.

Who Needs to Meet Field of Study Requirements?

Not every student needs to worry about this, but here’s a breakdown of who does:

Basically, if you’re not enrolled in a full degree program at a university or college (like a master’s or bachelor’s), you’ll need to meet these extra eligibility criteria.

Steps to Make Sure Your Program Is PGWP-Eligible

If your program falls under the new field of study requirements, don’t worry — you can still be eligible for a PGWP. Here’s how to make sure:

1. Identify the Correct CIP Code for Your Program

Every study program in Canada is classified by a Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code. This code is key to determining PGWP eligibility. You can find the correct code by:

• Visiting Statistics Canada’s CIP directory to search your program
• Reading the descriptions carefully to match your specific course
• Checking your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) website — many list CIP codes directly
• Contacting your school’s registrar or international student office if you’re unsure

Keep in mind that program names may vary slightly, so it’s important to match the description — not just the title.

2. Confirm Your CIP Code Is on the List of PGWP-Eligible Fields

Once you have your CIP code, the next step is to check if it’s among the fields eligible for a PGWP.

As of now, only programs in the following areas are considered PGWP-eligible under the new rules:

• Agriculture and agri-food
• Education
• Health care and social services
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
• Skilled trades
• Transport and logistics

Changes to this list may happen as early as 2026, so it’s a good idea to double-check before you apply. You can use our PGWP eligibility tool to search your code and see if you qualify.

Other Requirements for PGWP Eligibility

Even if your program is in an approved field, there are other boxes you’ll need to check to qualify for a PGWP:

Language Proficiency Requirements

You’ll need to meet one of Canada’s official language benchmarks in either English or French, depending on your level of study.

CLB stands for Canadian Language Benchmark, and it assesses your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.

General PGWP Eligibility Criteria

Here’s what else you’ll need to be eligible for a PGWP:

• Complete a full-time program at a PGWP-eligible DLI
• Your program must be at least 8 months long (or 900 hours in Quebec)
• Maintain full-time status throughout your studies — part-time is only allowed in your final semester
• Apply for your PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation of program completion
• Hold a valid study permit during some portion of the 180-day post-graduation period

Why This Matters for Your Future in Canada

Getting a PGWP opens doors to gaining Canadian work experience, which is often a major stepping stone to permanent residency. Many provincial nominee programs — like the Manitoba PNP — reward applicants who have Canadian education and work experience.

That’s why it’s so important to get it right from the start. Choosing the right program now could shape your future in Canada.

Final Thoughts

Canada is a fantastic place to study and build your career, but getting a Post-Graduation Work Permit isn’t automatic. You’ve got to make sure your program — and your paperwork — meet all the requirements. From identifying the right CIP code to checking if your field of study is eligible, a little research now can save a lot of stress later.

Still unsure about your program’s eligibility? You don’t have to navigate this alone. Schedule a free PGWP consultation with the Cohen Immigration Law Firm and get expert advice tailored to your situation.

And if you’re planning to stay in Canada long-term, check out our guide on the best immigration pathways for international graduates — including how your PGWP can help you qualify for permanent residency.