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In a significant policy shift, Canada has eliminated the field of study requirements for international graduates of college bachelor’s programs applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This change, effective immediately, aims to streamline the process for these graduates, aligning their eligibility with those from university bachelor’s programs.
What was earlier?
Previously, while university bachelor’s graduates were exempt from field of study restrictions, those from college bachelor’s programs faced stringent requirements, particularly for study permits applied for after November 1, 2024. These requirements mandated that college graduates complete programs linked to identified labor market shortages to qualify for a PGWP.
“This update removes a significant barrier for international students pursuing college bachelor’s degrees in Canada,” stated an IRCC spokesperson. “It recognizes the valuable contributions of these graduates to our workforce.”
However, it is crucial to note that graduates from other college, polytechnic, or non-university programs, as well as those from university programs below the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral levels, remain subject to the field of study requirements.
Key Changes and Requirements
- College Bachelor’s Exemption: Graduates of college bachelor’s programs are no longer required to meet field of study requirements for PGWP eligibility.
- Language Proficiency: All PGWP applicants who applied for their initial study permits after November 1, 2024, must meet new language proficiency requirements.
Language Proficiency Requirements
| Level of study | Language proficiency requirements |
| Bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree | Must prove a level 7 language proficiency according to either the: – Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) for English; or – Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for French. |
| Any other university program | Must prove a level 7 language proficiency according to either the: – CLB for English; or – NCLC for French. |
| Any other college, polytechnic or non-university program | Must prove a level 5 language proficiency according to either the: – CLB for English; or – NCLC for French. |
- Graduates of flight schools and those who applied for their PGWP before November 1, 2024, are exempt from language and field of study requirements.
- Those from other college or university programs not meeting bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate levels must still meet both language and filed of study.
Who Remains Ineligible?
The IRCC maintains existing PGWP ineligibility criteria, including:
- Previous PGWP recipients.
- Students who studied English or French as a second language.
- Students who took general interest or self-improvement courses.
- Students with funding requiring return to their home country.
- Students who completed over 50% of their program online (outside COVID-19 measures).
- Students from non-Canadian institutions in Canada.
- Programs not eligible under a curriculum licensing agreement.
Motive Behind the Changes
The initial implementation of field of study requirements was part of broader efforts to manage the influx of newcomers amidst housing and affordability concerns. It also aimed to align PGWP issuance with critical sectors like agriculture, education, healthcare, STEM, trade, and transport. The most recent shift reflects the IRCC evolving perspective regarding the valuable contributions of college bachelor’s degree graduates.
What is a Bachelor’s Degree in Canada?
A bachelor’s degree in Canada is an undergraduate credential offered by post-secondary institutions, typically requiring 3-4 years of study. IRCC officers verify degree types and associated eligibility during PGWP assessments.
