On June 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) overhauled the list of programs eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), adding 119 new fields while removing 178 others to better align with labour market demands. These changes affect students in non-degree programs who applied on or after November 1, 2024, although existing applicants remain “grandfathered” under the previous rules.
What’s New?
119 Newly Eligible Programs
IRCC prioritized sectors facing persistent shortages. Notably, education programs (e.g., teacher preparation in French, biology, computer, chemistry, drama & dance) join the PGWP list for the first time. Many healthcare & social services (veterinary medicine, dentistry) and trades (construction management, CNC machinist) programs are also added.
Education – Newly Eligible Programs
Healthcare & Social services – Newly Eligible Programs 
STEM – Newly Eligible Programs
Trades – Newly Eligible Programs 
178 Programs Removed
Fields tied to occupations with improved labour supply—such as transport, agriculture, environmental studies, and certain trades (solar technology, electrical installation)—are no longer PGWP-eligible. This ensures international graduates fill genuine skill gaps
Agriculture – Removed Programs
Education – Removed Programs
Healthcare & Social services – Removed Programs
STEM – Removed Programs
Trades – Removed Programs
Transport – Removed Programs
Revised Total
Post-update, 920 fields of study qualify for PGWPs, down from 979 under the old framework
Who Is Impacted?
Before June 25, 2025
Students who applied for their study permit before this date keep PGWP eligibility for whichever program they enrolled in—regardless of subsequent removals.
On or After June 25, 2025
New non-degree applicants must graduate from one of the 920 approved programs to qualify for a PGWP.
Degree programs (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral) remain eligible without field restrictions, provided language requirements (CLB/NCLC 7 for university; CLB/NCLC 5 for college) are met
Academic Levels & Language Requirements
University Degree Programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral): Continue to qualify for a PGWP with no program restrictions.
College & Non-Degree Programs: Must enroll in one of the 920 newly approved eligible fields to be PGWP-qualified.
Language Benchmarks:
University Degrees: CLB 7 / NCLC 7
College & Vocational Programs: CLB 5 / NCLC 5
Why This Matters
1. Labour Market Alignment
Ensures that international graduates help fill critical roles—in teaching, healthcare, STEM, and skilled trades—where Canada needs them most.
2. Policy Predictability
Students can assess program choice against up-to-date PGWP eligibility, avoiding surprises at graduation.
3. Express Entry Link
Changes mirror updates to Express Entry categories, reinforcing Canada’s priority occupations for both temporary work and permanent residence
What This Means for You
Program Choice Matters
If you’re eyeing a one‐ or two‐year diploma or certificate, confirm it’s on the updated PGWP list.
Plan Ahead
International students who applied before June 25 are in the clear—but those still considering must adjust their course selection now.
PEI & PNP Synergy
Many provincial nominee programs mirror these priority fields, offering fast‐track PR for in‐demand graduates.
Altec Global’s Pro Advice
Verify Your Program: If you’re in a college or non-degree course, confirm it’s on the official 920-program PGWP list.
Plan Your Language Scores: Aim for CLB/French 5 for college streams, and CLB/French 7 for university degrees.
Watch the Deadline: Study permits applied for before June 25, 2025 use the old rules; applications after that must meet the new criteria.
Choose In-Demand Fields: Healthcare, education, STEM, trades, and transportation programs offer strong work-permit odds and clearer PR pathways.
At Altec Global, we understand the complexities of the Canadian immigration system and are dedicated to helping applicants overcome these obstacles. Whether you’re waiting for your PR application, navigating temporary residence delays, or seeking citizenship, our team is here to guide you through the process and help make your Canadian dream a reality. Contact us Today. Make your personalized guidance on getting the right strategy for immigrating to Canada.