Planning to study in Canada and want to work after graduation? Before applying, it’s essential to check if your study programme is PGWP-eligible. This guide explains how to verify PGWP eligibility, find your CIP code, confirm your DLI status, and ensure your programme meets IRCC requirements for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Understanding PGWP Eligibility in Canada
If you’re an international student considering studying in Canada, one of the biggest advantages is the opportunity to work after graduation through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). However, not all study programmes or institutions in Canada qualify for this permit. That’s why it’s crucial to check PGWP eligibility programme details before applying.
The PGWP is a valuable pathway to permanent residence through the Express Entry system, including options like the Canadian Experience Class. But to benefit from it, your study programme must meet certain criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
What Is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The PGWP is an open work permit that allows international graduates from eligible Canadian institutions to work for any employer in Canada for up to three years. The duration of the permit depends on the length of your study programme. It’s a critical stepping stone for gaining Canadian work experience, which significantly boosts your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score if you plan to apply for permanent residence later.
Why PGWP Eligibility Matters for Express Entry
Graduates with Canadian work experience are often more competitive in the Express Entry pool. Through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), you can qualify for permanent residence after just one year of skilled work experience in Canada. But this is only possible if your work was done under a valid PGWP after completing a qualifying programme.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check If Your Programme Is PGWP-Eligible
To avoid disappointment after graduation, here’s how you can confirm programme PGWP eligibility before applying to a college or university in Canada.
1. Check the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) List
First, make sure the school you’re applying to is on the official Designated Learning Institution (DLI) list. Only DLIs are authorised to host international students. However, not all DLIs and their programmes are PGWP-eligible.
You can verify this by visiting the IRCC’s DLI list and filtering by province. Look for a note under the institution that says “Offers PGWP-eligible programmes.” If it doesn’t say this, your study programme may not qualify you for a PGWP.
- Visit the DLI PGWP eligible list
- Select your province
- Search for your institution’s name
- Look for the PGWP eligibility note
Tip:
Always double-check with the school directly. Some institutions have a mix of PGWP-eligible and non-eligible programmes.
2. Confirm Programme Eligibility with the Institution
Some DLIs offer a mix of programmes – only certain ones are PGWP-eligible. Contact the admissions department of your chosen college or university and ask them directly: “Is this programme PGWP-eligible?” Be specific about the name and level of the programme.
You can also consult the school’s website. Look for pages related to “international students” or “work after graduation.” Schools that offer PGWP-eligible programmes often highlight this as a benefit.
3. Use the Statistics Canada CIP Code Finder
To verify PGWP programme eligibility, you’ll also need to find your programme’s CIP (Classification of Instructional Programmes) code. This code helps IRCC determine what type of programme you’re studying.
Here’s how to find CIP code programme information:
- Visit the Statistics Canada CIP code finder.
- Search your programme by title or keyword.
- Find the matching CIP code and description.
- Compare it to the programme listed on your letter of acceptance.
Some IRCC decisions may be based on the CIP code, especially if there’s confusion over whether your programme is academic, vocational, or professional. This can affect your PGWP eligibility.
4. Understand the Level and Type of Programme
To be eligible for a PGWP, your study programme must meet one of the following criteria:
- It must be a full-time programme that is at least eight months long
- It must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate
- It must be offered by a PGWP-eligible DLI
Programmes that are shorter than eight months, or delivered online from outside Canada (in some cases), may not be eligible. Also, private career colleges in some provinces may not meet PGWP requirements.
To ensure eligibility, choose a programme of study that is at least one academic year (two semesters) and offered in-person in Canada.
5. Verify the Letter of Acceptance Details
Your letter of acceptance should clearly state:
- The name of the DLI
- The programme name and credential
- The start and end dates
- The delivery method (in-person, online, hybrid)
Review these details carefully. If your programme is primarily or fully online, it may not be eligible for a PGWP, depending on current IRCC guidelines.
PGWP Eligibility Rules: What IRCC Considers
IRCC has specific rules for PGWP qualification. If your goal is to work in Canada after graduation, it’s critical to understand what IRCC looks at when assessing your application.
Minimum Duration of Study
Your programme must be at least eight months long. However, to receive a three-year PGWP, you typically need to complete a programme that is two years or longer. Programmes under two years may result in a shorter work permit duration.
Institution Type
Only certain institutions qualify. For example, if you study at a public post-secondary institution or a private institution that follows the same rules as public colleges in Quebec, you may be eligible. Always verify college PGWP eligibility before applying.
Programme Completion
You must complete your programme successfully and receive written confirmation (transcript, diploma, or certificate). If you withdraw or fail to complete your programme, you may not be eligible for a PGWP.
Tip:
Keep all records related to your studies. You may need to submit proof of full-time enrolment and completion when applying for your PGWP.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Checking PGWP Eligibility
Many students make costly mistakes by assuming all Canadian programmes qualify. Here are some common pitfalls:
1. Choosing a Non-Eligible Private College
Some private colleges in Ontario and British Columbia do not offer PGWP-eligible programmes. Always double-check the DLI’s status and specific programme eligibility using the designated learning institution list.
2. Enrolling in an Online-Only Programme
During the COVID-19 pandemic, IRCC allowed some flexibility for online studies. However, current rules require most of your studies to be completed inside Canada for PGWP eligibility. If your studies are primarily online or completed from abroad, you may not qualify.
3. Studying Less Than 8 Months
Short-term certificate programmes that are under eight months do not meet the minimum duration for PGWP. Be sure your programme meets the required length before enrolling.
4. Assuming All DLIs Are Equal
Not every DLI offers PGWP-eligible programmes. Just being on the DLI list is not enough. Always verify PGWP programme eligibility for your specific programme and institution.
How to Confirm Programme PGWP Eligibility with Confidence
Here’s a quick checklist to help you check study programme work permit eligibility confidently:
- Use the IRCC DLI PGWP eligible list
- Verify programme details with your school
- Find and confirm your Statistics Canada CIP code
- Ensure your programme meets the minimum duration and format requirements
- Read your letter of acceptance carefully
- Ask the school for written confirmation if you’re unsure
If you’re still uncertain, consider a professional immigration evaluation to assess your eligibility and avoid costly mistakes.
Need Help with PGWP Verification?
At EverNorth, we help students determine their eligibility and choose the right study path to support their long-term immigration goals. Whether you plan to study in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, or Quebec, our experts can guide you through the entire application process and help you transition from studies to permanent residence.
Learn more about your options and explore your Canadian immigration pathways today.
How CIP Codes Affect PGWP Eligibility
Understanding how Statistics Canada CIP codes connect to your programme is crucial when verifying PGWP eligibility. The Classification of Instructional Programmes (CIP) system categorizes post-secondary academic, technical, and vocational programmes offered in Canada. IRCC uses these codes to determine the nature and purpose of your studies, which can impact whether your programme qualifies for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Why the CIP Code Matters
Some students have had their PGWP applications questioned or refused because their programmes were incorrectly identified as non-eligible due to mismatched CIP codes. For example, if your programme’s CIP code suggests it is a language training or general interest course, it may not meet PGWP requirements—even if it’s delivered by a DLI.
To avoid confusion, make sure the CIP code on your letter of acceptance or study permit application reflects an academic or vocational programme that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate. You can find CIP code programme details on the Statistics Canada website and check it against your school’s documentation.
Tip:
If your programme has multiple CIP code possibilities, ask your institution for clarification and request written confirmation of the correct CIP code they submitted to IRCC.
Matching Your Programme to the Right CIP Code
To verify PGWP programme eligibility based on the CIP code, follow these steps:
- Search for your programme in the Statistics Canada CIP directory.
- Check the associated description to ensure it matches your area of study.
- Compare it with the programme title and content listed in your letter of acceptance.
- Ask your institution how they report the programme to IRCC.
This step is particularly important if your programme title is vague or could be interpreted in multiple ways, such as “General Studies” or “Arts and Sciences.”
How to Use Your PGWP for Permanent Residence
The PGWP is not just a temporary work opportunity—it can also be your gateway to becoming a permanent resident in Canada. With Canadian work experience, you can become eligible for several immigration streams, especially under the Express Entry system.
Pathway Through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
One of the most direct routes for PGWP holders is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). If you gain at least one year of full-time skilled work experience in Canada (or equivalent part-time experience) under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3, you may qualify to apply for permanent residence through CEC.
This category is part of Express Entry and often has lower CRS score cut-offs compared to other streams. It also doesn’t require proof of funds if you’re already working in Canada.
Other Express Entry Streams
Besides CEC, your PGWP experience can help you qualify for:
These streams require language proficiency (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF), work experience, and educational credentials. Your Canadian experience will significantly strengthen your Express Entry profile.
Improving Your CRS Score
Working in Canada after graduation can improve your CRS score in several ways:
- Canadian work experience (up to 80 CRS points)
- Canadian education (up to 30 CRS points)
- Valid job offer (up to 200 CRS points depending on NOC)
- Language proficiency improvements
If you’re aiming to improve your CRS score, working under a PGWP is one of the best strategies.
Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs)
Many provinces offer nomination streams for international graduates. If you studied and worked in a specific province, you might qualify for a Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP), which adds 600 points to your Express Entry score and virtually guarantees an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Each province has unique criteria. For example, Ontario and British Columbia offer PNP streams for graduates from eligible institutions. If you’re interested in staying in your province of study, explore region-specific programs like:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
- BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program
Tips for Choosing a PGWP-Eligible Programme
With hundreds of institutions and thousands of programmes across Canada, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. However, keeping PGWP eligibility in mind from the beginning will help you avoid future complications.
Pick a Reputable Public Institution
Public colleges and universities in Canada are generally safe choices for PGWP eligibility. These include institutions like:
These DLIs offer full-time, in-person, and accredited programmes that are almost always PGWP-eligible.
Research the Programme Structure
Beyond the institution, look into how the programme is delivered. To be PGWP-eligible, you should choose a programme that:
- Is delivered primarily in person
- Is not exclusively online or distance learning
- Is at least 8 months long
- Leads to a legitimate credential (degree, diploma, certificate)
Check the programme of study details on the school website and confirm with an international student advisor.
Tip:
If you’re unsure, request written confirmation from the institution stating the programme is PGWP-eligible.
Know the Provincial Differences
Some provinces have more private colleges than others, and not all private institutions qualify. For example, in Quebec, some private institutions are PGWP-eligible if they operate under the same regulations as public colleges.
In contrast, many private institutions in Ontario and British Columbia are not PGWP-eligible. Always verify with the DLI PGWP eligible list and speak directly with the institution.
What to Do If Your Programme Isn’t PGWP-Eligible
If you’ve already enrolled in a programme that turns out to be ineligible, you still have options—but early action is key.
Transfer to a PGWP-Eligible Programme
If you’re early in your studies, you may be able to transfer to another programme or institution that qualifies. However, you must remain enrolled full-time and meet IRCC’s requirements for study permit holders.
Pursue a Second Eligible Programme
If you complete your current programme but it isn’t PGWP-eligible, you might still qualify for a PGWP if you later complete a second, eligible programme. The total duration of both programmes may be considered, provided they are completed within two years and meet IRCC criteria.
Seek Professional Guidance
Given the complexity of PGWP rules and the importance of making the right decision early, a professional immigration evaluation can help you understand your best path forward. Our team at EverNorth can assess your study and immigration goals and help you choose a strategy aligned with Canadian immigration policies.
Conclusion: Take the Right Steps Toward Your Future in Canada
Ensuring your programme is PGWP-eligible is one of the most important steps in planning your future in Canada. From confirming your school’s DLI status and programme structure to understanding CIP codes and IRCC rules, each detail matters.
By taking the time to check PGWP eligibility programme details, you can avoid costly mistakes and set yourself up for success—both academically and in your immigration journey. A valid PGWP opens the door to Canadian work experience, higher CRS scores, and potential permanent residence through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programmes.
If you’re looking for expert support, EverNorth is here to guide you every step of the way—from choosing the right institution to submitting your PGWP application and preparing for permanent residence. Let us help you determine your eligibility and build a customized plan for your life in Canada.
Don’t leave your future to chance—explore your Canadian immigration options with confidence and clarity today.
