Ottawa, June 25, 2025 – The International Student Program of Canada was changed greatly, and today it has been announced that the eligibility criteria of Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is changed greatly.
The Canadian government has come up with a new list of acceptable areas of study by the international students who are undertaking non-degree programs.
Today 119 new fields of study will become eligible to apply for a PGWP, and 178 fields of study will be taken off the list of eligible fields.
This is an attempt to liberalize hopping channels because especially the Express Entry and the high vacuum in some areas such as in health care, education and skilled trades.
This is a complete guide into the nitty-gritty of the new requirements of PGWP that includes many questions pertaining to international students, and what changes should mean to them, as well as an insight into how it can and will affect the future of Canadian immigration, in general.
Donning the hat of a potential learner or a current international student, or merely a citizen who is interested in knowing more of how the immigration policies of Canada are changing towards the year 2025, this article gives you all the information you may require concerning the 2025 PGWP changes.
Key Changes to PGWP Eligibility in 2025
As of June 25, 2025 the Canadian government has updated the list of eligible fields of study in non-degree programs that international students can pursue in order to become eligible to obtain a PGWP.
Here are the major updates:
Addition of 119 New Fields of Study
A total of 119 fields of study have been introduced into the list of PGWP eligible programs in order to curb long term labour shortages in Canada. These are mostly the areas of high demands that include:
Health Care and Social Services: Nursing, medical laboratory technology and social work programs.
Education: Early childhood education, teaching assistant program and other areas related to education.
Skilled Trades: Courses in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and other vocational courses.
The additions point to Canada in its efforts to pursue the imperatives in the industries that spend the most impact on the nation’s economic and social welfare.
Removal of 178 Fields of Study
On the other hand, 178 study fields that are not anymore attached to the occupations under chronic labour shortage have been eliminated in the list of those eligible to receive the PGWP.
This modification will make the program continue to serve the labour market needs of Canada as these needs change.
Students in these areas who are given a study permit prior to June 25, 2025, will continue to become eligible to a PGWP, provided that their program was on the list at the time they decided to apply.
Total Eligible Fields of Study
There are currently 929 eligible fields of study that qualify to receive a PGWP as a result of the changes. The complete numbering, by the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system, can be found at the official government site.
Grandfathering Clause for Existing Students
To be fair, students applying for work study permits are before June 25, 2025, they will achieve a PGWP as long as their field of study was in the list at the time of the application even though it could have been removed later.
Exemptions from the Field of Study Requirement
All the international students are not required to fulfill the new field of study requirement. You will be exempted in cases where:
You applied to the PGWP before November 1, 2024, no matter the level of study of your program.
You have graduated from a flight school with a PGWP.
You have a bachelor, master or doctor degree.
You submitted an application for a study permit prior to November 1, 2024.
In the case of the individuals who fail to meet the mentioned exemptions, eligibility of PGWP will be determined by the updated list of fields of study.
Full List of PGWP Eligible Study Programs
Education and Agriculture Study Programs List
CIP 2021 code
CIP 2021 Title
12.0506
Meat cutting/meat cutter
5.0210
Disability studies
5.0211
Deaf studies
13.0101
Education, general
13.0201
Bilingual and multilingual education
13.1001
Special education and teaching, general
13.1003
Education/teaching of individuals with hearing impairments including deafness
13.1005
Education/teaching of individuals with emotional disturbances
13.1006
Education/teaching of individuals with intellectual disabilities
13.1007
Education/teaching of individuals with multiple disabilities
13.1008
Education/teaching of individuals with orthopedic and other physical health impairments
13.1009
Education/teaching of individuals with vision impairments including blindness
13.1011
Education/teaching of individuals with specific learning disabilities
13.1012
Education/teaching of individuals with speech or language impairments
13.1013
Education/teaching of individuals with autism
13.1014
Education/teaching of individuals who are developmentally delayed
13.1015
Education/teaching of individuals in early childhood special education programs
13.1016
Education/teaching of individuals with traumatic brain injuries
13.1017
Education/teaching of individuals in elementary special education programs
13.1018
Education/teaching of individuals in junior high/middle school special education programs
13.1019
Education/teaching of individuals in secondary special education programs
13.1099
Special education and teaching, other
13.1207
Montessori teacher education
13.1208
Waldorf/Steiner teacher education
13.1210
Early childhood education and teaching
13.1501
Teaching assistants/aides, general
19.0706
Child development
19.0708
Child care and support services management
19.0709
Child care provider/assistant
19.0711
Early childhood and family studies
13.1202
Elementary education and teaching
13.1203
Junior high/intermediate/middle school education and teaching
13.1205
Secondary education and teaching
13.1206
Teacher education, multiple levels
13.1209
Kindergarten/preschool education and teaching
13.1213
Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) educational methods
13.1301
Agricultural teacher education
13.1302
Art teacher education
13.1303
Business and innovation/entrepreneurship teacher education
13.1305
English/English language arts teacher education
13.1307
Health teacher education
13.1308
Family and consumer sciences/home economics teacher education
To determine whether your program qualifies for a PGWP, follow these steps:
Visit the Official Government Website: The complete list of 929 approved areas of study, subdivided by the system of Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) is online.
Identify Your Program’s CIP Code: To each of the programs a unique CIP code is attached. Look at your school or education institution to ensure that your codes are accurate.
Cross-Reference with the Eligible List: Find the CIP code of your program on the new list to check it.
Consult with Your Institution: The eligibility of PGWP is also advised by most colleges and institutes and they will be in a position to advise on which programme best suits to meet the conditions.
When you are not certain as to whether you are eligible or not, go to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in case you cannot seek the services of an authorized immigration consultant to seek clarification of this matter in detail.
How to Prepare for the PGWP Application Process
Seeking a PGWP is a process that needs planning and following the instructions of Immigrant, refugees and citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Confirm Your Program’s Eligibility
Make sure that your program is found in the list of 929 eligible fields of study (non-degree programs)., or that you are covered by one of the exemptions, such as a bachelor degree or an earlier application.
Complete Your Studies
You are required to have graduated in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and you need to have a transcript or any official correspondence certifying you as completing the program.
Apply Within 180 Days
Submit your PGWP application within 180 days of completing your program. You must also hold a valid study permit at the time of application.
Gather Required Documents
Typical documents include:
A valid passport
Your study permit
Proof of program completion (e.g., transcript or degree certificate)
Proof that your institution is a DLI
Submit Your Application
Use an online portal on the IRCC, or contact an immigration consultant to assist. Make sure everything is right so as not to waste time.
Work While Waiting
You can be allowed to work full time in Canada during the processing of the application provided that you meet certain conditions when you apply for a PGWP before the expiry of your study permit.
The 2025 changes in the program of Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada are a relevant change in the way the country approaches immigration of international students.
With a new list of programs to be added, 178 cancelled and a constant 929 programs on the approved list, Canada is focused on modifying its list of eligible programs so that it can meet its labour need in the long term by aligning itself with the pressing needs of health care, education and skilled trades sector.
To international students, the changes would present opportunities and challenges on how these students can be able to plan to be eligible to have PGWP and also have a path to permanent residency.
Being either an active student, a potential applicant, or merely curious about the structure of the Canadian immigration movement, it is essential to learn about these alterations.
International students who select a valid program of study, stay abreast of news and information, and plan adequately have the biggest chance to take advantage of all that Canada’s education system and the booming job market have to offer.
To acquire the complete list of available areas of education and further information, you should access the official government web-site or address Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Be one step ahead and make Canada International Student Program be your key to your bright future.
What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a cornerstone of Canada’s appeal as a top destination for international students. It allows graduates from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
This open work permit is a critical stepping stone for many international students who aim to gain Canadian work experience, which can significantly boost their chances of qualifying for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry.
Canada’s New List Of PGWP Eligible Fields Of Study Effective June 2025
Ottawa, June 25, 2025 – The International Student Program of Canada was changed greatly, and today it has been announced that the eligibility criteria of Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is changed greatly.
The Canadian government has come up with a new list of acceptable areas of study by the international students who are undertaking non-degree programs.
Today 119 new fields of study will become eligible to apply for a PGWP, and 178 fields of study will be taken off the list of eligible fields.
This is an attempt to liberalize hopping channels because especially the Express Entry and the high vacuum in some areas such as in health care, education and skilled trades.
This is a complete guide into the nitty-gritty of the new requirements of PGWP that includes many questions pertaining to international students, and what changes should mean to them, as well as an insight into how it can and will affect the future of Canadian immigration, in general.
Donning the hat of a potential learner or a current international student, or merely a citizen who is interested in knowing more of how the immigration policies of Canada are changing towards the year 2025, this article gives you all the information you may require concerning the 2025 PGWP changes.
Key Changes to PGWP Eligibility in 2025
As of June 25, 2025 the Canadian government has updated the list of eligible fields of study in non-degree programs that international students can pursue in order to become eligible to obtain a PGWP.
Here are the major updates:
Addition of 119 New Fields of Study
A total of 119 fields of study have been introduced into the list of PGWP eligible programs in order to curb long term labour shortages in Canada. These are mostly the areas of high demands that include:
Health Care and Social Services: Nursing, medical laboratory technology and social work programs.
Education: Early childhood education, teaching assistant program and other areas related to education.
Skilled Trades: Courses in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and other vocational courses.
The additions point to Canada in its efforts to pursue the imperatives in the industries that spend the most impact on the nation’s economic and social welfare.
Removal of 178 Fields of Study
On the other hand, 178 study fields that are not anymore attached to the occupations under chronic labour shortage have been eliminated in the list of those eligible to receive the PGWP.
This modification will make the program continue to serve the labour market needs of Canada as these needs change.
Students in these areas who are given a study permit prior to June 25, 2025, will continue to become eligible to a PGWP, provided that their program was on the list at the time they decided to apply.
Total Eligible Fields of Study
There are currently 929 eligible fields of study that qualify to receive a PGWP as a result of the changes. The complete numbering, by the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system, can be found at the official government site.
Grandfathering Clause for Existing Students
To be fair, students applying for work study permits are before June 25, 2025, they will achieve a PGWP as long as their field of study was in the list at the time of the application even though it could have been removed later.
Exemptions from the Field of Study Requirement
All the international students are not required to fulfill the new field of study requirement. You will be exempted in cases where:
You applied to the PGWP before November 1, 2024, no matter the level of study of your program.
You have graduated from a flight school with a PGWP.
You have a bachelor, master or doctor degree.
You submitted an application for a study permit prior to November 1, 2024.
In the case of the individuals who fail to meet the mentioned exemptions, eligibility of PGWP will be determined by the updated list of fields of study.
Full List of PGWP Eligible Study Programs
Education and Agriculture Study Programs List
Trade Study Programs List
Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) Study Programs List
Healthcare and Social Services Study Programs List
How to Check If Your Program is PGWP-Eligible
To determine whether your program qualifies for a PGWP, follow these steps:
Visit the Official Government Website: The complete list of 929 approved areas of study, subdivided by the system of Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) is online.
Identify Your Program’s CIP Code: To each of the programs a unique CIP code is attached. Look at your school or education institution to ensure that your codes are accurate.
Cross-Reference with the Eligible List: Find the CIP code of your program on the new list to check it.
Consult with Your Institution: The eligibility of PGWP is also advised by most colleges and institutes and they will be in a position to advise on which programme best suits to meet the conditions.
When you are not certain as to whether you are eligible or not, go to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in case you cannot seek the services of an authorized immigration consultant to seek clarification of this matter in detail.
How to Prepare for the PGWP Application Process
Seeking a PGWP is a process that needs planning and following the instructions of Immigrant, refugees and citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Confirm Your Program’s Eligibility
Make sure that your program is found in the list of 929 eligible fields of study (non-degree programs)., or that you are covered by one of the exemptions, such as a bachelor degree or an earlier application.
Complete Your Studies
You are required to have graduated in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and you need to have a transcript or any official correspondence certifying you as completing the program.
Apply Within 180 Days
Submit your PGWP application within 180 days of completing your program. You must also hold a valid study permit at the time of application.
Gather Required Documents
Typical documents include:
A valid passport
Your study permit
Proof of program completion (e.g., transcript or degree certificate)
Proof that your institution is a DLI
Submit Your Application
Use an online portal on the IRCC, or contact an immigration consultant to assist. Make sure everything is right so as not to waste time.
Work While Waiting
You can be allowed to work full time in Canada during the processing of the application provided that you meet certain conditions when you apply for a PGWP before the expiry of your study permit.
The 2025 changes in the program of Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada are a relevant change in the way the country approaches immigration of international students.
With a new list of programs to be added, 178 cancelled and a constant 929 programs on the approved list, Canada is focused on modifying its list of eligible programs so that it can meet its labour need in the long term by aligning itself with the pressing needs of health care, education and skilled trades sector.
To international students, the changes would present opportunities and challenges on how these students can be able to plan to be eligible to have PGWP and also have a path to permanent residency.
Being either an active student, a potential applicant, or merely curious about the structure of the Canadian immigration movement, it is essential to learn about these alterations.
International students who select a valid program of study, stay abreast of news and information, and plan adequately have the biggest chance to take advantage of all that Canada’s education system and the booming job market have to offer.
To acquire the complete list of available areas of education and further information, you should access the official government web-site or address Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Be one step ahead and make Canada International Student Program be your key to your bright future.
What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a cornerstone of Canada’s appeal as a top destination for international students. It allows graduates from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
This open work permit is a critical stepping stone for many international students who aim to gain Canadian work experience, which can significantly boost their chances of qualifying for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry.
Author: Shubham
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