Canada’s PGWP Program List Update for 2025: What International Students Need to Know

Canada has long been a top destination for international students, offering world-class education, multicultural experiences, and a clear pathway to work and permanent residency. One of the key components of this pathway is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows eligible international graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience after completing their studies.

On 25 June2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC)updated the list of over 900+ fields of study that are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada. This update redefines which non-degree programs are eligible for a PGWP by revising the approved fields of study. The change is aimed at aligning educational programs more closely with Canada’s labour market priorities and immigration pathways.

Why Was This Change Introduced?

The Canadian government is actively addressing labour shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, social services, engineering, and skilled trades. To support this strategy, IRCC has revised the list of eligible fields of study for non-degree programs, such as diplomas and certificates, ensuring that international students are trained in areas that contribute directly to Canada’s economic needs.
Each academic program is assigned a Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code, which categorizes it under a broader field of study. Students can usually find their program’s CIP code on their institution’s website or by contacting the school directly.
To determine PGWP eligibility, students in non-degree programs need to verify whether their CIP code appears on the approved Field of Study list. This code must be listed either at the time they apply for their study permit or when they apply for the PGWP to be considered eligible.

Key Changes to the PGWP Program

Here’s a summary of the major updates made on June 25, 2025:

Change	Details
Added	119 new fields of study were added to the list. These include disciplines in healthcare, education, veterinary sciences, dental assistance, and engineering technicians.
Removed	178 fields were removed. This includes some programs in agriculture, environmental sciences, STEM, transportation, and digital media.
Updated Total	The number of eligible non-degree programs now stands at 920.
Degree Exemption	Students enrolled in degree-level programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) are not affected by the changes.

Who Is Affected?

The update primarily affects non-degree international students, such as those pursuing diplomas, certificates, or post-graduate certificates.Here’s how the changes break down:
1. Students in Degree Programs
• If you are pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, these updates do not affect you.
• You remain eligible for PGWP regardless of your program’s field of study.
2. Students in Non-Degree Programs
• Only students enrolled in eligible fields (as per the revised list of 920) can apply for a PGWP.
• If your field of study was removed, you may no longer qualify unless exempted.
3. Grandfathered Students
• If your study permit was approved before 25 June2025, you are grandfathered in.
• Even if your program is no longer on the list, you remain eligible for a PGWP.
4. Special Exemptions
• Flight Training Schools: These programs are still exempt from the field-of-study requirement and the updated language requirements.
• Language Proficiency: Non-degree students must meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) requirements, typically between CLB 5 and CLB 7.

What You Should Do Now

If you’re an international student in Canada or planning to study there soon, here’s what you need to do in light of these updates:
• Ask your institution for the CIP code of your program.
• Match it with the updated PGWP-approved list published by IRCC.
• If your study permit was approved before 25 June 2025, the new rules do not apply to you.
• You are eligible based on the previous list.
• Future students should opt for programs that align with labour market needs and Express Entry occupations.
• This increases your chances of PGWP eligibility and long-term immigration success.
• DLIs can provide clarity on your program’s eligibility status and any implications of this update.

Conclusion

Canada’s updated PGWP program list is a strategic move to ensure that international education continues to meet the country’s evolving economic needs. While the changes might seem restrictive for some, they also open doors for international students to be part of industries that are in high demand.If you’re planning your academic journey in Canada, this is the time to make informed, strategic choices. Choose programs that align not just with your passions, but also with Canada’s employment trends, ensuring you remain eligible for a PGWP and future immigration opportunities.