🎓 Big Changes to Canada’s PGWP Program: What Students Need to Know in 2025

Canada has just made a major update to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program—news that international students should pay close attention to.

As of June 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced changes that reshape which programs of study can lead to a PGWP. The goal? To better align education pathways with the country’s most in-demand careers.

📌 What’s the Update?

If you’re planning to study in non-degree programs—courses that don’t lead to a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree—this affects you directly.

Here’s what’s changed:

• ✅ 119 programs have been added to the PGWP-eligible list

• ❌ 178 programs have been removed

These updates apply only to students who submit their study permit applications on or after November 1, 2024.

If you applied before June 25, 2025, you’re in the clear. You’ll still qualify for a PGWP under the old list of approved programs.

🧠 Why the Change?

Canada wants to ensure that international graduates are trained in fields where jobs are actually available. The changes reflect what employers need—especially in sectors where there are persistent labour shortages.

That means some programs were removed simply because the demand in those job markets has declined.

🌟 What’s New on the PGWP List?

These newly added programs are aligned with key areas where Canada needs more workers:

🩺 Healthcare & Social Services

• Dentistry (DDS, DMD)

• Veterinary Medicine

• Dental Sciences

• Veterinary Technology

🧑‍🏫 Education (a brand-new category for PGWP!)

• French Language Teacher Training

• Biology, Chemistry, and Computer Teacher Education

• Drama and Dance Teacher Training

🛠️ Skilled Trades

• Construction Management

• CNC Machining

• Cabinetmaking

• Commercial Diving

🧪 STEM & Architecture

• Architecture (Bachelor to PhD)

• Advanced Architectural Design

• Landscape Architecture

⚠️ What’s Been Removed?

Unfortunately, several fields have been dropped from the eligibility list. Here are a few highlights:

❌ Agriculture

• General Agriculture and Crop Production

• Farm Management

❌ Transportation

• Aircraft and Marine Mechanics

• Public Transport Infrastructure

• High-Performance Engine Technician

❌ Trades & Technical

• Solar Energy Technician

• Electrical Installations

• Building Maintenance and Drywall Installation

❌ Environment

• Environmental Studies

• Marine Resource Management

🌐 PGWP & Express Entry: A Coordinated Approach

This move mirrors Canada’s efforts under its Express Entry system, where immigration candidates are selected based on real-time labour shortages. The PGWP changes now follow that same logic—supporting study and career pathways in industries where Canada truly needs talent.

💬 Language Requirements Still Apply

No matter what you study, you’ll also need to meet language standards:

Education Level	Language Requirement	Field of Study Rules
College Degree	CLB/NCLC 7	No field restriction
University (BA, MA, PhD)	CLB/NCLC 7	No field restriction
Other University Programs	CLB/NCLC 7	Must be on approved list
College Diplomas	CLB/NCLC 5	Must be on approved list
Flight School Grads	CLB/NCLC 5	No field restriction

✅ What You Should Do Now

If you’re planning to study in Canada:

• Double-check that your program is still eligible for PGWP

• Apply before Nov 1, 2024 if you’re enrolling in a soon-to-be-removed field

• Work with a trusted immigration consultant to make sure your path leads to a work permit—and possibly permanent residency

Want a custom assessment or help choosing the right program?
📞 Contact us today – your future in Canada starts with the right education choice!