Canada is among the most preferred destinations for higher education and for attaining valuable work experience. As Canada offers globally recognised universities, good quality of life, post-study work opportunities and cultural diversity, international students often choose to stay in Canada after completing their education. For this, a PGWP, or a post-graduation work permit, is required to gain practical work experience. Let’s find out everything about Canada’s PGWP requirements.

Key highlights:

• PGWP Canada Eligibility: A Step-by-Step Checklist
• PGWP Eligible Programmes in Canada: Study Requirements
• Top Universities Offering PGWP Eligible Programmes in Canada
• How to Apply to Colleges with PGWP Eligible Programmes in Canada

PGWP Canada Eligibility: A Step-by-Step Checklist

Here is a detailed checklist to know the PGWP eligibility in Canada:

Canada PGWP Eligibility: General Criteria

• A completed study programme from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The programme should have a duration of at least 8 months.
• Being a full-time student throughout your study programme. However, you may study part-time during your final semester.
• You must apply for the PGWP within 180 days (6 months) after receiving your official letter confirming the completion of your programme.
• You must have held a valid study permit at some point during your studies and before applying for the PGWP.

PGWP Canada Requirements: Basic Details to Know

• The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada enables international graduates from Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to remain and work in Canada for a specified period.
• In 2025, applicants are required to submit a provincial attestation letter or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) for a work permit.
• Your PGWP eligibility for Canada largely depends on the course you studied and its duration. The maximum length of a PGWP in Canada can be up to three years.

PGWP Update for March 2025

In March 2025, the Canadian government lifted the field-of-study restriction for degree-level programmes at colleges and universities. The updated PGWP rules are:

• Students enrolled in bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programmes are now eligible for a PGWP, regardless of their study field.
• However, for other university programmes, you must still meet specific field-of-study and language requirements to qualify.

PGWP Eligible Programmes in Canada: Field of Study Requirements

Choosing a category linked to in-demand jobs can boost your PGWP chances and career prospects. The eligible programme categories are as follows:

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
• Healthcare
• Education
• Trades
• Transport
• Agriculture and Agri-Food

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Also Read: PGWP Programmes in Canada: A Complete Guide for 2025

Top Universities Offering PGWP Eligible Programmes in Canada

While PGWP eligibility in Canada depends on the programme and institution, some universities stand out for their global academic excellence. Here is the list of top Canadian Universities offering PGWP Eligible Programmes according to Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.

• QS category: QS World University Rankings 2025: Top global universities: Top Global Universities (PGWP Canada Specific)
• THE category: World University Rankings 2025 (PGWP Canada Specific)

How to Apply to Colleges with PGWP-Eligible Programmes in Canada?

Here’s a guide on how to apply to Canadian colleges and universities with PGWP-eligible programs:

Choose the Right Institution and Programme

First, you need to carefully select a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada that offers PGWP-eligible programs in Canada that align with your previous academic background and future career opportunities.

Gather Required Documents

Documents required while applying to Canadian universities include:

• Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Letter of Recommendation (LOR) from employer/manager
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Resume
• Proof of funds
• Passport Copy
• Academic transcripts
• Entrance exam scores

Take a Language Test

Most Canadian colleges require proof of English language proficiency. Common tests include the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Ensure that you meet the minimum score requirements set by the institution.

Submit Your Application

Most Canadian colleges and universities accept applications through their online portals, which typically require an application fee. After submission of the application, the university will review it and notify you if you are selected.

Apply for a Study Permit

Once you secure a seat, you can apply for a study permit to study in Canada by visiting your city’s visa office. Be sure to provide all requested documents:

• Original Letter of Acceptance from the University
• Proof of Identity
• Proof of Funds
• Letter of Explanation (Detailing your academic and professional goals)
• English Language Proficiency Exam Score

Choosing the right university in Canada opens valuable work opportunities through the PGWP. To fulfil this journey, we at Avanse Financial Services offer abroad education loans with benefits such as quick loan sanction, 100% finance and more. Our education loans are designed to cover the holistic cost of education, including tuition fees, travel expenses, accommodation costs, living expenses, the cost of learning devices, and other education-related expenses.

Also Read: Top Courses to Pursue in Canada for PGWP