Update on PGWP Eligible Fields of Study
Hello World! As we shared on this blog last year, starting November 1, 2024, a new requirements was introduced for international students in non-degree programs that they must complete the fields of study eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
This time, we would like to introduce the major update of these eligible fields of study by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on June 25 and July 4, 2025.
What has changed?
As of June 25, 2025, IRCC made a major revision to the eligible fields of study for international students in non-degree programs who wish to apply for PGWP. 119 fields of study were newly added, 178 were removed, and currently 920 fields are listed as eligible for PGWP application.
The newly added fields include healthcare, social services, education, and skilled trades. Notably, education programs are now eligible for PGWP for the first time. On the other hand, all transportation-related programs were removed, and only one program remains in the agriculture and agri-food category.
This update is connected to Express Entry, Canada’s main program to apply for permanent residency, and it changes the PGWP eligible programs to match area where Canada needs more workers in the future.
*Note: To ensure fairness, international students who applied for Study Permit before June 25, 2025, still meet the PGWP eligibility requirements.
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On July 4, 2025, IRCC announced that 178 fields previously removed on June 25 have been added back to the PGWP eligible list. The 178 fields will remain eligible until early 2026 when IRCC plans to review the list again.
*Note: International students who applied for Study Permit between June 25 and July 4, 2025, will also qualify for PGWP based on the new list.
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You can search for the list of PGWP eligible programs with the CIP code on the IRCC link below.
If you are unsure of your CIP code, please contact your school.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/eligibility/field-of-study.html#check_cip_list
Who is affected?
This requirement of PGWP eligible field of study applies to international students enrolled in non-degree programs. These students are the subject of this revision. On the other hand, the following students are not affected by this update:
- Students graduating from bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral programs
- Students graduating from PGWP eligible flight schools
- Students who applied for PGWP before November 1, 2024 (regardless of program level)
- Students who applied for a Study Permit before November 1, 2024
Please visit the link below for the IRCC’s official announcements.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/update-requirement-post-graduation-work-permits.html
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For international students want to work or immigrate to Canada, getting PGWP after graduating from college or other institutions is a key step. This update reflects Canada’s policy of prioritizing immigrants who can thrive in fields facing long-term labor shortages. The list will be reviewed again in early 2026, so students should keep a close eye on future updates.
Since immigration laws change often, it’s important to plan your Study Permit and PGWP applications with your future goals in mind. If you need advice or support with applications, feel free to contact us from this form.
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