Canada has just made an important change to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. As of June 25, 2025, 119 new programs have been added to the PGWP-eligible list—bringing the total to 920 fields of study.
This update matters for international students. If you’re planning to study in Canada, your PGWP eligibility depends on this list. The rules apply at the time you apply for your study or work permit, so staying informed is essential.
Here’s what you need to know about the recent changes and how they can shape your future.
What Is PGWP and Why Is It Important?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a special visa that lets international students work in Canada after graduation. It gives students the opportunity to gain work experience in their chosen field of study. To qualify, you must complete a full-time program at an eligible Canadian college or university, and the program must be at least eight months long.
The PGWP is important because it helps graduates move from studies into a career. It also supports long-term immigration goals, as Canadian work experience increases your chances of becoming a permanent resident. Best of all, the permit gives you the freedom to work for any employer, full-time or part-time. It’s a powerful tool for building your future in Canada, both professionally and personally.
What’s New in 2025: Updated Fields of Study Announced
As of June 2025, Canada updated the list of programs eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This change added 119 new programs in high-demand areas like healthcare, education, social work, and skilled trades— fields where Canada needs more workers.
At the same time, 179 programs were removed from the PGWP list they no longer support Canada’s long-term job market goals. These changes also reflect the latest Express Entry priorities, which now play a bigger role in PGWP eligibility.
💡 Good news: If you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, and your program was eligible then, you’re still covered—even if your program was later removed.
Pathway to PR: How PGWP Supports Express Entry
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s system for selecting skilled workers to apply for permanent residency. It’s a point-based system that rewards factors like education, age, English or French skills, and Canadian work experience.
How PGWP Helps You Qualify
This is where the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) helps. If you study in a PGWP-eligible program, you can work after graduation. That job experience boosts your points and strengthens your application.
In 2025, Canada added category-based draws to Express Entry. These focus on graduates in high-demand fields like:
- Health Care and Social Services: Programs related to nursing, medical laboratory technology, and social work.
- Education: Fields such as early childhood education and special education.
- Skilled Trades: Including carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM): Programs in computer science, data analytics, and engineering disciplines.
If your program fits into one of these areas, your chances of getting selected increase.
📌 Tip: Always double-check that your program is on the approved PGWP list before applying. It only takes a minute but it matters.
What This Means for International Students
The 2025 PGWP update is great news for international students. With 119 new study programs now eligible, you still have more choices than ever to shape your future in Canada.
Many of these programs include co-op terms or internships, giving you valuable work experience while you study. This real-world training helps you stand out to employers and can lead to stronger job offers after graduation.
Even better, Canadian work experience improves your chances of qualifying for permanent residency through immigration pathways like Express Entry.
By choosing the right program, you’re not just earning a degree— you’re creating a real pathway to stay in Canada.
Next Steps: How to Choose the Right Program
With new PGWP-eligible programs now available, it’s more important than ever to make an informed decision. Before you apply, check if your chosen program is on the official PGWP-approved list. This ensures that your studies align with your long-term goals, including working and settling in Canada.
Choosing the right school can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options. That’s where UniApplyNow comes in. Our team connects you with PGWP-eligible programs and provides expert support. We help you avoid costly mistakes and stay on track.
📩 Ready to study, work, and stay in Canada? Let UniApplyNow guide you every step of the way—confidently and stress-free. UniApplyNow assists students in finding the right university programs, admission guidance, and visa support for studying in Canada and the U.S.
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