Effective November 1, 2024, the Canadian government is introducing significant changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. These changes aim to align the program more closely with the country’s labor market needs and ensure that international students who graduate from Canadian institutions have the skills and qualifications required to contribute meaningfully to the Canadian economy.
Key Changes
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of new language requirements. Starting November 1st, all PGWP applicants will be required to demonstrate a higher level of English or French language proficiency. This means that students who graduate from university programs will need to achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7 in all four language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking). For students who graduate from college programs or other programs not listed above, the required CLB level is 5.
Another significant change involves field of study requirements. While all fields of study are eligible for PGWP for students graduating from university programs, those graduating from college programs or other programs will need to have completed a program in a specific field of study that aligns with Canada’s long-term labor shortages. These fields include agriculture and agri-food, healthcare, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), trade, and transport.
New eligibility requirements
If you submitted your study permit application before November 1, 2024
If you submitted your study permit application before November 1, 2024 and are applying for a PGWP on or after November 1, 2024, you must also meet the new requirement that applies to your situation.
- If you graduated with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral degree from a university:
- Language requirement: You must prove your English or French language skills with a minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 7 in English or Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French in all 4 language areas.
- If you graduated in any other university program:
- Language requirement: You must prove your English or French language skills with a minimum level of CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all 4 language areas.
- If you graduated from a college program or any other program not listed above:
- Language requirement: You must prove your English or French language skills with a minimum level of CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French in all 4 language areas.
If you submit your study permit application on or after November 1, 2024
Language requirements
You must provide proof of language ability to meet the language requirements for the PGWP when you submit your application.
To measure your English or French levels, you will be required to use
- Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English
- Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French
Proof of language ability
You must demonstrate your skill in each of the following abilities:
- reading
- writing
- listening
- speaking
Your test results must be less than 2 years old when you submit your application. Language test results from these tests are:
| English | French |
|---|---|
|
CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program
|
|
|
IELTS: International English Language Testing System
|
|
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PTE Core: Pearson Test of English
|
Field of study requirement
If your study program has a field of study requirement, you must graduate from a program linked to certain occupations in long-term shortage. The fields of study are divided into 5 broad categories:
- agriculture and agri-food
- healthcare
- science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
- trade
- transport
CIP codes and title
The Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) is used to classify post-secondary education programs according to field of study in Canada.
Learn more about CIP Canada and how it’s used.
What Remains Unchanged
Despite these changes, some aspects of the PGWP program will remain the same. Students who apply for a PGWP before November 1, 2024, will only need to meet the current eligibility criteria. Additionally, graduates from PGWP-eligible flight schools will also continue to be eligible for a PGWP under the existing rules.
How to Prepare
If you’re an international student currently studying in Canada or planning to do so, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with these changes and start preparing accordingly. This may involve taking language proficiency tests, ensuring that your chosen program aligns with the new field of study requirements, and understanding the specific language levels required for your program.
By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can increase your chances of successfully obtaining a PGWP and building a successful career in Canada.
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