Canada Eliminates PGWP Field of Study Restrictions for College Bachelor’s program
- April 18, 2025
- Posted by: ideamaster
- Category: news
In a major political change, which relieves thousands of international students, immigration, refugees and citizenship Canada (IRCC) have removed the requirement for the study goals for continuing education work (PGWP) qualifying for graduates of students. With effect from March 2025, this update corrects a previous distinction, had placed college graduates at a drawback compared to university graduates—even when both held bachelor’s degrees.
Understanding the PGWP
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who have completed eligible programs at Canadian designated learning institutions to work in Canada for up to three years. This work experience is crucial for those aiming to transition to permanent residency through various immigration pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class under the Express Entry system.
What has changed In This Policy?
New field of study requirements came into effect last year for international college graduates who applied for their initial study permits after November 1, 2024. Under these requirements, college graduates must have graduated from a program linked to a labour market shortage to be eligible for a PGWP. In this policy, graduates from college bachelor’s programs no longer need to fulfill this field of study requirement.
As of March 2025, this policy has changed:
- No field of study requirement now involves bachelor’s degrees earned at universities or colleges in Canada.
- This only involves to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree holders.
- Graduates of diploma, certificate, or non-degree college programs are still subject to field-of-study essentials.
Eligibility Criteria Of PGWP (Effective March 2025)
As of March 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has modified the eligibility standards for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. These changes aim to provide more honest opportunities for international students graduating from Canadian organizations. Below is a comprehensive overview of the key eligibility requirements for appilcant:
Graduation from an Eligible Program
To qualify for a PGWP, the candidate must have completed a program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. and Graduated from one of the following degree programs (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral) from a college or university.
A diploma or certificate program that meets specific criteria set by IRCC
Language Proficiency Requirements
Applicants must show proficiency in English or French. The essential Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels are:
Minimum CLB 7 in English for university graduates (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees).
CLB 5 for college graduates (bachelor’s degrees).
These requirements assure that graduates have the necessary language skills to combine into the Canadian workforce.
Implications for International Students
This policy change has several favorable implications for international students:
- Expanded Opportunities: Students from various academic backgrounds now have the opportunity to achieve Canadian work experience, enhancing their career opportunities.
- Equity Among Graduates: By removing the field-of-study restriction, the policy encourages fairness between college and university graduates.
- Strengthened Pathways to Permanent Residency: Work experience gained through the PGWP can contribute to eligibility for permanent residency programs, keeping long-term settlement in Canada. This policy change not only benefits students but also helps Canada’s broader purpose of attracting and maintaining global talent to meet its growing labor market needs.
Need advice on your PGWP eligibility or application procedure?
Contact our team at Idea Immigration consultant for personalized guidance tailored to your education and career plans. Let’s secure your future in Canada, the right way.