Do Not Study These Courses in Canada If You Want a PGWP!

Canada has long been a dream destination for international students. The promise of high-quality education, post-study work opportunities, and a clear pathway to permanent residency have drawn thousands of students each year. But recent changes to Canada’s immigration policies have shaken things up significantly. If you’re an international student considering studying in Canada or are already in Canada, you need to know what’s happening.
Why International Students Choose Canada:
In the past, studying in Canada seemed like a straightforward process: choose a program, study hard, graduate, and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP, a coveted permit that allowed students to gain valuable work experience in Canada, used to be granted as long as you studied at a PGWP-eligible institution and completed a program lasting at least 8 months. This work permit often paved the way for a successful transition to permanent residency, thanks to the work experience gained in Canada.
But All That Has Changed.
Over the past year, Canada’s immigration policy has seen a wave of updates, and international students have been caught in the middle of these changes. The government first increased the proof of living funds for study permits, then capped the number of international students in some institutions, and altered spousal open work permits. And now, they have changed the PGWP eligibility requirements — making it harder for certain students to qualify.
So, what exactly has changed, and how does it affect you?
New PGWP Rules: What You Need to Know
The new PGWP eligibility criteria, effective from November 1st, 2024, have introduced additional requirements based on your field of study, program level, and language proficiency. This means not all study programs will make you eligible for a PGWP anymore!
Here’s a breakdown of what’s new:
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Language Requirements for PGWP Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Programs: You now need a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or a NCLC 7 in French.
- Other University Programs: The same language benchmarks apply.
- College Programs (Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, or Postgraduate Certificates): You need a minimum CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French.
This language requirement is a major shift! Previously, international students didn’t need to prove their language proficiency for the PGWP. Now, this has become a crucial factor. So, if you’re currently studying, it’s advisable to start preparing for your language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF Canada, or TCF Canada) before graduation.
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Field of Study Requirements: For the first time, your field of study will determine your PGWP eligibility — especially for programs that are not a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree. Only programs in fields of study linked to long-term labor market needs will qualify for the PGWP.
These fields have been broadly categorized into:
- Healthcare
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Trades & Transport
- Agriculture & Agri-Food
This change is designed to steer students toward sectors experiencing labor shortages in Canada. If your program does not fall into these categories, you may not be eligible for a PGWP. That’s a huge game-changer!
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Timing is Critical:
- If you submitted your study permit application before November 1, 2024, you’re in luck. The new rules won’t affect you as long as you apply for your PGWP before the cutoff date.
- If you’re applying on or after November 1, 2024, you must meet all the new requirements, including the language and field of study criteria.
How These Changes Affect Current and Prospective Students
Many students who just started their studies this September might be studying in fields that are no longer eligible for PGWP under the new rules. This has left students in a tough spot, wondering if they need to switch programs, apply for a different study permit, or even change their career plans altogether.
For prospective students, this means being extra careful about the programs they choose. Here’s a quick action plan for students currently in Canada and those planning to study:
- Already Studying? If your program isn’t in an eligible field, consider adding a second eligible program at the same institution. This way, you don’t need to apply for a new study permit.
- Planning to Apply for a Study Permit? If your preferred program doesn’t fall under the eligible fields, either apply before November 1, 2024, or consider switching to a program that does. This could save you from future complications.
How to Maximize Your Chances of Getting a PGWP:
If you’re determined to study in Canada and secure a PGWP, here’s what you should do:
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Research Eligible Programs: Go through the list of eligible programs to ensure your field of study is in one of the preferred categories like healthcare, STEM, or trades. The government has divided long-term shortage fields into five broad categories, and your chosen program must align with these needs.
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Prepare for Language Tests Early: The language tests can be tricky and have a two-year shelf life. Aim to score CLB 7 or higher, even if you only need CLB 5 for your PGWP. This will help you qualify for Express Entry and other immigration pathways in the future.
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Strategize for a Switch: If you can’t find a suitable program in your field, consider starting with a business program or any other course you’re interested in, and then switch to an eligible field later. Remember, you need to stay in the same institution to avoid complications.
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Stay Updated on Immigration Policies: Canada’s immigration policies are changing rapidly. Stay informed to avoid being caught off guard. Follow credible sources, subscribe to updates, and consult an immigration expert if needed.
Final Thoughts: What Does This Mean for You?
Canada’s new PGWP rules are undoubtedly tough. But this doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road for international students. It simply means you have to be strategic and proactive in your approach. If you’re determined to make Canada your home, there are still ways to navigate these challenges.
By choosing the right programs, meeting the language requirements, and staying up-to-date, you can still turn your Canadian study experience into a permanent residency success story!
Remember: Don’t let these changes discourage you. Like every hurdle, it’s just a matter of finding the right path. Canada has always been a land of opportunities — you just need to ensure you’re on the right track.
Stay informed, stay focused, and keep pushing toward your dreams! Get Our Step-by-Step Study In Canada Guide