New guidance from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has changed how the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is issued when you graduate from more than one program of study. Whether you call it “program stacking” or simply completing multiple courses, this update affects the length of your PGWP and your eligibility for a longer work permit.
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PGWP Issuance for Students with Multiple Programs of Study
If you have completed more than one program at a designated learning institution (DLI), you might be eligible for a longer PGWP—up to the maximum of three years. IRCC now clearly outlines how your PGWP is determined when you graduate from multiple programs. This process, often referred to as “program stacking,” applies only if you meet specific conditions.
What is Program Stacking?
“Program stacking” refers to the situation where a student completes more than one program that is PGWP-eligible at a DLI. Under the new rules:
- Both programs must be at least 8 months long.
- They must be completed within two years of each other, based on their completion dates.
If these conditions are met, the duration of your PGWP may be extended by combining the lengths of both programs.
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How Program Stacking Affects PGWP Duration
Below is a summary table showing how the completion of different programs impacts the duration of your PGWP. All examples are based on situations occurring on or after November 1, 2024, when IRCC introduced these changes.
| Example Situation | PGWP Duration |
|---|---|
| Completing 2 PGWP-eligible programs | PGWP duration can reflect the combined lengths of both programs (up to a maximum of 3 years) |
| Completing a first program that is not PGWP-eligible followed by a PGWP-eligible program | PGWP will be issued based only on the duration of the eligible program |
| Completing a PGWP-eligible program first, then a program that is not PGWP-eligible | You must apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving confirmation for the first program; PGWP based on the eligible program only |
In cases where only one program qualifies for the PGWP, only that program’s duration will determine your permit length. If you complete the eligible program first and then a non-eligible one, remember to apply within 180 days of the eligible program’s completion confirmation.
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What Makes a Program of Study PGWP-Eligible?
For a program to qualify for a PGWP, it must meet several key requirements:
- Duration: It must be at least eight months long.
- Delivery: It should not be delivered through a curriculum-licensing agreement.
- Qualification: The program must lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Type: It should be an academic, vocational, or professional training program.
- Institution: The program must be completed at an eligible post-secondary DLI. These include:
- Colleges
- Universities
- Trade or technical schools
- CEGEPs (in Quebec)
- Private post-secondary schools in Quebec operating under public school rules
- Canadian private schools that award degrees under provincial law (with appropriate study program authorization)
Only DLIs are permitted to enroll international students, ensuring that the education you receive is recognized for PGWP purposes.
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Additional PGWP Eligibility Requirements Based on Level of Study
IRCC made significant changes to PGWP eligibility on November 1, 2024. One of the major updates is the introduction of field of study requirements for certain levels of study. These changes also include updated language-testing criteria for all new international graduates.
For Study Permit Applications Submitted Before November 1, 2024
| Level of Study | Language Requirements | Field of Study Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| University bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs | CLB/NCLC 7 in all four language skills | N/A |
| Other university programs | CLB/NCLC 7 in all four language skills | N/A |
| College or non-university programs | CLB/NCLC 5 in all four language skills | N/A |
For Study Permit Applications Submitted After November 1, 2024
| Level of Study | Language Requirements | Field of Study Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| University bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs | CLB/NCLC 7 in all four language skills | N/A |
| Other university programs | CLB/NCLC 7 in all four language skills | Must have graduated from an eligible field of study |
| College or other non-university programs | CLB/NCLC 5 in all four language skills | Must have graduated from an eligible field of study |
These new rules ensure that only graduates from qualifying programs receive a PGWP that accurately reflects the length and quality of their studies.
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Optimizing Your PGWP Application
Understanding these new guidelines is crucial if you plan to apply for a PGWP after completing multiple programs. Here are some tips to improve your application:
- Plan Your Studies: If you are considering enrolling in more than one program, try to ensure that both are PGWP-eligible by meeting the minimum duration and timing requirements.
- Keep Track of Dates: Remember that programs must be completed within two years of each other to benefit from stacking.
- Apply on Time: If you complete a PGWP-eligible program before a non-eligible one, apply for your PGWP within 180 days of your first program’s completion confirmation.
- Check Your Institution’s Status: Verify that your institution is a designated learning institution (DLI) recognized by IRCC.
- Review Language Requirements: Make sure you meet the appropriate language proficiency levels for your level of study, especially if your study permit application is submitted after November 1, 2024.
Following these steps can help you maximize your chances of receiving a PGWP that reflects your academic achievements and supports your career goals in Canada.
