Is Your Program Still Eligible for PGWP in 2025?
- Tiffany Chia
- Jun 27
- 3 min read
Thinking of staying in Canada after graduation? Make sure your Canadian study program still qualifies. IRCC just made important changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program that could impact your future.
If you're an international student dreaming of building a life in Canada after graduation, this is a must-read.
As of June 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated its list of eligible fields of study for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — and it’s a big deal. Some programs are now in, and others are out.
Let's break it down for you in the simplest way possible.
🎓 What is New with the PGWP 2025 Field of Study Requirement?
In 2024, IRCC introduced a new rule for students in non-degree programs (such as diplomas and certificates).
To qualify for a PGWP after graduating, these students must complete a program in a high-demand field — linked to jobs experiencing long-term labour shortages in Canada.
Today, that list of eligible fields was updated to match the 2025 Express Entry priorities.
Here is what changed:
✅ 119 fields of study were added — especially in healthcare, social services, skilled trades, and education
❌ 178 fields of study were removed — if they no longer match high-demand occupations
🔢 The total list now includes 920 eligible programs
📌 Who is Affected?
This update only affects students who applied for their study permit on or after November 1, 2024.
👉 If you applied for study permit before June 25, 2025, your field of study will still be eligible for a PGWP if it was on the list when you applied, even if it’s been removed now.
This change is especially relevant for:
Students in college diploma or certificate programs
Those planning to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) via Express Entry in the future
Anyone still deciding which program to take in Canada
🧾 Quick Summary
🔍 What’s Changed? | ✅ Updated as of June 25, 2025 |
Affects non-degree program students | Yes, those applying for study permit on/after Nov 1, 2024 |
Fields added | 119 (healthcare, trades, education, social work) |
Fields removed | 178 (no longer tied to labour shortage) |
Still eligible if applied for PGWP before 25 Jun 2025? | Yes, if your program was on the list then |
Total eligible fields now | 920 |
❓ FAQ: PGWP 2025 Field of Study Update
Q1: Does this affect degree programs (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD)?
A: No. This only applies to non-degree programs like diplomas and certificates.
Q2: I applied for my study permit in May 2025. Am I safe?
A: Yes, you’ll still be eligible if your program was on the approved list at the time you applied.
Q3: How do I know if my program is still eligible?
A: Visit the official IRCC site for the updated list (a link to the list is provided at the end of the blog), or contact us — we’ll help you check.
Q4: Can I switch programs now to remain eligible?
A: Possibly. But speak to a licensed immigration consultant first to avoid jeopardizing your status.
Q5: Will this affect my chances of getting PR later?
A: It could. Choosing a high-demand field now helps with both PGWP and future PR applications.
💬 What Should You Do Now?
If you’re already studying or applying for a program, this update could affect your ability to stay and work in Canada after graduation.
🌟 Don't panic!
We’re here to help you make sense of this.
✅ Check if your program is still eligible (List)
✅ Explore alternatives if it’s not
✅ Plan your immigration pathway now — not later!
📣 Let’s Talk About Your Future in Canada
Whether you're already here or planning your studies, your journey doesn’t have to be uncertain. At 1to1 Immigration, we guide international students like you every step of the way — from study permits to PR success.
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