Planning to study in Canada and wondering which programmes qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in 2025? This comprehensive guide covers PGWP eligible fields of study, recent changes, CIP codes, program requirements, and tips to help international students make informed decisions about their education and future in Canada.
Understanding the PGWP: A Pathway to Work and Permanent Residency
Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a valuable opportunity for international students who complete an eligible programme of study in Canada. It allows graduates to gain Canadian work experience, which can be critical for transitioning to permanent residency through programmes like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs).
However, not all study programmes make you eligible for a PGWP. As of 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is updating its list of PGWP eligible programs and fields of study. Understanding these changes is essential if you’re planning your education and immigration journey in Canada.
What Is the PGWP?
The PGWP is an open work permit issued to international students who have completed a qualifying post-secondary programme in Canada. It allows you to work for any employer, in any location, and in any occupation for up to three years, depending on the length of your study programme.
Why Is the PGWP Important?
Gaining Canadian work experience through a PGWP helps you:
- Qualify for Canadian immigration pathways like Express Entry and PNPs
- Improve your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score
- Integrate into the Canadian labour market
- Build a foundation for your future in Canada
But to benefit from a PGWP, you must choose a programme that meets IRCC’s current eligibility criteria.
PGWP Eligible Fields of Study for 2025
IRCC has announced significant updates to the list of PGWP eligible fields of study starting in 2025. The goal is to better align the PGWP with labour market needs and Canada’s long-term immigration goals. This means certain programmes will be prioritized, while others may be removed or restricted.
How Are Fields of Study Categorized?
IRCC uses the Classification of Instructional Programmes (CIP) codes to categorize programmes by field of study. These codes help determine whether a programme qualifies for PGWP based on its relevance to Canada’s labour market and immigration priorities.
Fields of study are grouped under major CIP categories such as:
- Health Professions and Related Programmes
- Engineering and Technology
- Business, Management and Public Administration
- Information Technology and Computer Science
- Education and Teaching
To assess your immigration options, it’s important to understand which of these categories remain PGWP-eligible in 2025.
PGWP Eligible Programmes Still in Demand
As of 2025, the following programme categories continue to be PGWP eligible due to their alignment with Canada’s high-demand occupations:
1. Healthcare Programmes PGWP
- Nursing (Registered Nurse, Practical Nurse)
- Medical Laboratory Technology
- Pharmacy Technician
- Health Information Management
- Occupational Therapy Assistant / Physiotherapy Assistant
Healthcare remains a top priority for Canada due to an aging population and ongoing shortages in many provinces. Graduates in these healthcare programmes PGWP are likely to have strong pathways to employment and permanent residency.
2. Information Technology and Engineering
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
- AI and Data Science
Graduates in IT and engineering fields are highly valued under the Canadian immigration system. These programmes are strongly supported by both federal and provincial immigration streams, including the Ontario Tech Draw under OINP.
3. Business and Finance
- Accounting and Finance
- Business Administration
- Project Management
- Human Resource Management
While business degrees are still PGWP-eligible, it’s important to choose recognized college programmes PGWP or university-level credentials with strong co-op or practicum components to enhance work-integrated learning opportunities.
PGWP Field of Study List: Areas Under Review or Removed
Some programmes may no longer be eligible for a PGWP starting in 2025. IRCC is focusing on reducing access to PGWPs for fields that are not aligned with labour market needs or that have shown low integration into the workforce.
Transport Programmes PGWP Removed
Transport-related programmes such as:
- Automotive Service Technician
- Heavy Vehicle Operation
- Aviation Technician (in some provinces)
may no longer qualify under the new 2025 update. These changes aim to ensure that immigration supports sectors with long-term demand and higher employment outcomes.
Non-Degree PGWP Eligibility: What’s Changing?
IRCC is tightening rules around non-degree PGWP eligibility. In the past, many diploma and certificate programmes were PGWP-eligible if offered by Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). However, starting in 2025:
- Only non-degree programmes in high-demand fields will qualify
- Short-duration or repetitive credentials may be excluded
- Graduates from private colleges with public affiliations may face restrictions
To avoid surprises, determine your eligibility before applying to a programme.
PGWP Program Requirements: What You Must Know
Understanding the general and updated PGWP program requirements is crucial for any international student planning to study in Canada. Even if your field of study qualifies, you must still meet the basic PGWP conditions.
General PGWP Requirements
- You must complete a full-time programme of at least 8 months
- You must graduate from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- You must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving your final marks
- Your study permit must have been valid at some point during the 180-day period before submitting your PGWP application
Make sure your programme is not delivered entirely online and includes in-person instruction, as this can affect your eligibility.
Changes in 2025: What to Expect
IRCC has indicated that from 2025 onward, there will be stricter scrutiny of:
- Programme quality and labour market alignment
- Duplicate or “stacked” diplomas
- Low-employment outcome programmes
This means that even if a programme is currently PGWP-eligible, it might not be in future intakes. Always consult the most recent PGWP field of study list or get a professional immigration evaluation to stay informed.
How to Choose the Right PGWP Eligible Programme
Choosing the right programme is the first step toward a successful immigration pathway. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
1. Verify the DLI Status
Ensure that your chosen institution is a Designated Learning Institution and that your specific programme is PGWP-eligible. Use IRCC’s official DLI list to confirm.
2. Match Your Field of Study to Labour Market Needs
Research which occupations are in demand in your province of interest. Aligning your studies with those needs increases your chances of employment and permanent residency.
3. Look for Programmes with Co-op or Practicum
Hands-on experience improves employability and your potential to stay in Canada. Many PGWP eligible programmes include co-op work terms that count toward Canadian work experience.
4. Avoid “PGWP Risk” Programmes
Steer clear of programmes that are known for low PGWP approval rates, such as repetitive diplomas, low-demand trades, or unaccredited private college offerings.
5. Consult with Immigration Professionals
The rules around PGWP eligibility are evolving. It’s wise to explore your Canadian immigration options with a regulated Canadian immigration consultant who understands programme trends and provincial priorities.
6. Consider Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs)
Each province has unique PNP streams that may favour specific fields of study. For example:
- British Columbia’s Tech Pilot targets tech graduates
- Manitoba’s International Education Stream supports skilled trades and business students
- Ontario’s Employer Job Offer stream supports healthcare and construction graduates
Aligning your programme with a PNP increases your chances of staying in Canada permanently after your PGWP.
7. Plan for English or French Language Requirements
While a PGWP doesn’t require IELTS or CELPIP, permanent residency applications do. Start preparing early for your language tests to avoid delays in your immigration process.
If you’d like help identifying the best study programme and immigration strategy for your goals, assess your immigration options with our expert team.
Understanding CIP Codes: The Backbone of PGWP Eligibility
To determine which programmes qualify for PGWP, IRCC relies on the Classification of Instructional Programmes (CIP) codes. These codes are standardized by Statistics Canada and categorize each academic programme by subject matter. Each programme you enrol in is assigned a specific CIP code, which helps IRCC assess whether your programme aligns with Canada’s labour market needs.
How CIP Codes Affect Your PGWP Eligibility
As of 2025, IRCC is closely reviewing CIP codes to ensure that PGWP eligibility supports Canada’s long-term economic strategy. If your education programme is associated with a CIP code that reflects high employment outcomes and labour shortages, it’s more likely to remain PGWP-eligible. Conversely, CIP codes tied to low-demand or oversaturated occupations may lose eligibility.
Examples of High-Priority CIP Codes
- 51.3801 – Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- 11.0701 – Computer Science
- 52.0301 – Accounting
- 15.0303 – Electrical, Electronic and Communications Engineering Technology
- 52.1001 – Human Resources Management
These CIP codes correspond to PGWP eligible programmes that continue to be supported by national and provincial immigration systems. Before applying to a college or university programme, be sure to verify the associated CIP code and whether it aligns with PGWP requirements.
For help identifying the right programme and CIP code, consider a professional immigration evaluation from a regulated consultant.
College Programmes and PGWP Eligibility in 2025
Many international students choose to study at Canadian colleges due to their practical training, lower tuition costs, and shorter durations. But not all college programmes PGWP remain eligible in 2025. The changes introduced by IRCC aim to restrict eligibility to those that meet economic and employment objectives.
Which College Programmes Still Qualify?
Public colleges and their PGWP-eligible programmes remain a solid option, especially in fields such as:
- Health Sciences
- Skilled Trades (construction, electrical, plumbing)
- Applied Technology
- Early Childhood Education
- Business with Co-op Components
These programmes are often career-oriented and prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce, which aligns well with PGWP goals.
Private Colleges and PGWP Restrictions
As of 2025, IRCC is limiting PGWP access for programmes offered through private institutions, especially those operating under public-private partnership models. This means international students graduating from private colleges—even those affiliated with public institutions—may no longer be eligible for a PGWP.
If you’re considering a private institution, determine your eligibility before enrolling to avoid disappointment after graduation.
Non-Degree Programmes and Short-Term Credentials
Non-degree programmes, such as diplomas and certificates, have historically offered PGWP eligibility when completed at a DLI. However, starting in 2025, IRCC is applying stricter criteria to these credentials.
Which Non-Degree Programmes Remain Eligible?
To qualify for a PGWP, your non-degree programme must:
- Be at least 8 months in duration
- Be full-time and delivered in person
- Be offered by a public college or university
- Fall under a CIP code aligned with in-demand occupations
For example, a 2-year diploma in Cybersecurity or Medical Laboratory Technology at a public college is likely to remain PGWP-eligible. In contrast, a 1-year certificate in general studies or hospitality may not qualify unless it’s part of a stackable credential in a high-demand field.
For advice on non-degree PGWP eligibility and whether your intended programme qualifies, you can assess your immigration options with our team.
Education Programmes and PGWP: Teaching the Future
Education programmes have traditionally been a pathway to PGWP and permanent residency, especially for those looking to become teachers in Canada. In 2025, many of these programmes remain eligible, particularly in high-needs areas like special education and early learning.
PGWP-Eligible Education Programmes
- Early Childhood Education
- Special Needs Education
- English or French Language Teaching (TESL/TEFL)
- Primary and Secondary Teacher Education
Graduates of these programmes may be eligible for PGWPs and can later transition to permanent residency through PNPs, especially in provinces such as Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Nova Scotia where teacher shortages exist.
Credential Recognition for Teachers
While a PGWP allows you to work after graduation, becoming a certified teacher in Canada requires credential recognition from a provincial regulatory body. Factor this into your timeline and career planning if you choose a teaching-related programme.
Fields of Study Under Review: What You Should Know
IRCC continues to review certain PGWP fields of study that have historically shown low employment outcomes or weak alignment with Canadian labour needs. If you’re considering a programme in one of these areas, proceed with caution.
Fields Potentially Losing PGWP Eligibility
- Hospitality and Tourism (except managerial or culinary arts)
- Generic Business and Marketing diplomas without co-op
- Personal Support Worker (PSW) programmes with low employer demand
- Low-level Transport programmes (as mentioned earlier)
- General Arts and Sciences without specialization
While some of these fields may still be PGWP-eligible in select provinces or institutions, eligibility is becoming more restrictive. It’s important to explore your Canadian immigration options with updated and accurate programme information before making a commitment.
Pathways After PGWP: Building Your Future in Canada
Completing a PGWP-eligible programme is just the beginning. Many international students use their PGWP work experience to qualify for Canadian permanent residency. Here’s how your education can convert into a long-term future in Canada.
1. Express Entry System
The Express Entry system is a points-based immigration pathway that rewards Canadian education and work experience. Graduating from a PGWP-eligible programme and gaining one year of skilled work experience under the PGWP can significantly boost your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Key Benefits:
- Extra CRS points for Canadian education
- More points for Canadian work experience
- Eligibility for Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
2. Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs)
Every province in Canada has PNP streams tailored to international graduates. These streams often focus on fields of study linked to local labour shortages.
Examples:
- Ontario Graduate Stream – For master’s and PhD graduates
- Alberta Graduate Entrepreneur Stream – For business graduates
- BC International Graduate Stream – For graduates in tech, healthcare, and trades
Aligning your education with a PNP-friendly field increases your success in obtaining permanent residency. You can assess your immigration options to understand your provincial opportunities.
3. Employer-Supported Work Permits
After your PGWP expires, some international graduates are able to transition to other work permits, such as employer-specific LMIA-based permits or open bridges through spousal sponsorship. Choosing a field with strong employer demand helps keep your Canadian journey going.
For example, healthcare and tech graduates often receive job offers that can lead to permanent job-supported immigration streams.
Tips to Maximize Your PGWP and Immigration Success
Making the most of your PGWP opportunity involves more than just choosing an eligible programme. Here’s how to maximize your time, education, and work experience in Canada:
1. Start Career Planning Early
Use student career services, attend networking events, and join professional associations while still in school. Building connections can lead to job opportunities that support your permanent residency goals.
2. Keep All Documents Updated
Save transcripts, offer letters, work contracts, and pay stubs, as they are often required for PR applications. Make sure your passport and permit documents stay valid throughout your stay.
3. Understand Your NOC Code
Your job after graduation must fall under a qualifying National Occupation Classification (NOC) code—typically TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3—to be eligible for Express Entry or PNPs. Confirm your NOC code with your employer and include it in your immigration strategy.
4. Monitor Immigration Policy Updates
IRCC policies change frequently. Stay informed by following official updates or working with a regulated immigration consultant to ensure your plans remain viable.
5. Apply Early for PGWP
Don’t wait until the last minute. Apply for your PGWP as soon as you receive your transcript and official letter of completion. Delays can affect your legal status and work eligibility.
Conclusion: Secure Your Future With the Right Programme
Choosing a PGWP eligible programme in 2025 is more important than ever. With new IRCC guidelines focused on labour market needs, students must be strategic when selecting their field of study. Programmes in healthcare, IT, engineering, finance, and education continue to offer the best pathways to work experience, permanent residency, and long-term settlement in Canada.
Whether you’re exploring non-degree PGWP eligibility, wondering about CIP codes, or evaluating college programmes PGWP, your decisions now will impact your future in Canada. That’s why it’s essential to base your plans on accurate, updated information and seek expert guidance when needed.
At EverNorth, our team of Canadian immigration professionals is here to help you make informed choices and build a strong foundation for your immigration journey. To find out which programmes fit your goals and whether you qualify for PGWP and beyond, take a free immigration assessment today.
Let us help you turn your Canadian education into a pathway to permanent residency and a brighter future.
