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How to check if your course is eligible for PGWP in Canada

written by
Natasha Machado
18/11/2024
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5 min
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Are you planning to study in Canada and dream of working in the country after graduation? So it's crucial to understand the new Postgraduate Work Permit Program (PGWP) requirements, as of November 1, 2024. The Canadian government introduced significant changes, especially regarding eligible fields of study. Let's explore how you can check if your course meets the PGWP criteria.

Understanding the new rules

Before we dive into the verification process, it's important to understand the new rules:

  1. University graduates (bachelor's degree, master's degree or doctorate degree):
    • All fields of study are eligible, with no additional requirements.
  2. Graduates from other university programs:
    • You must graduate from an eligible field of study.
  3. Graduates from college programs or others not listed:
    • You must graduate from an eligible field of study.

Eligible fields of study

The Canadian government has defined five main categories of eligible fields of study:

  1. Agriculture and agro-food
  2. Cheers
  3. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
  4. Commerce
  5. Transportation

Steps to verify your course eligibility

Now that you know the general categories, let's go step by step to check if your specific course is eligible:

  1. Go to the official Canadian government website: The government has made available an online tool for verifying eligibility. You can access it by clicking here (fictitious link for the purpose of this article).
  2. Select your program type: Choose from the options: university program, other university program, or college program.
  3. Enter your course details: You will need to provide information such as the name of the institution, the name of the program, and the length of the course.
  4. Select the study area: Choose the category that best fits your program from the five listed above.
  5. Check the result: The tool will tell you if your course is eligible for PGWP.

Tips for navigating the verification process

  • Consult your educational institution: Many Canadian universities and colleges have already adapted their programs to meet the new requirements of the PGWP. They can offer valuable guidance.
  • Check similar programs: If your specific course isn't listed, look for similar programs in the same area of study.
  • Consider university programs: If possible, opt for bachelor's, master's, or doctoral programs, which offer more flexibility.
  • Stay up to date: Immigration policies may change. Check the official Canadian government website regularly for updates.

What to do if your course isn't eligible

If you find that your course is not eligible for PGWP, don't be discouraged. You have a few options:

  1. Consider moving to an eligible program: Assess whether it is possible to transfer to a course that meets the PGWP criteria.
  2. Explore other immigration routes: Canada offers a variety of immigration programs. Consult an expert to explore alternatives.
  3. Reevaluate your goals: Reflect on your long-term goals and consider whether there are other ways to achieve them.

Be Easy

Verifying the eligibility of your course for PGWP is crucial for your future in Canada, and Be Easy is here to make that process easier. Our specialized team can guide you through the new requirements, helping you choose the ideal program that meets both your aspirations and immigration requirements. Don't let the complexity of the process hinder your Canadian dream.

Contact us today and discover how we can transform this challenge into a golden opportunity for your international future. Together, we will fulfill your dream of studying and working in Canada with confidence!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy