Canada Updates Field of Study Requirements for Post-Graduation Work Permits – What You Need to Know in 2025
In a significant move affecting thousands of international students, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced updates to the field of study requirements for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program starting September 2025.
If you’re planning to study in Canada or are already enrolled, it’s critical to understand how these changes may impact your ability to work and settle in Canada after graduation.
1. What is the PGWP?
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students who graduate from eligible Canadian institutions to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their program.
It’s a crucial step for many students looking to gain Canadian work experience and eventually apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through Express Entry or PNP programs.
2. What Has Changed in 2025?
Starting from September 1, 2025, the IRCC has updated the eligibility criteria for PGWP based on field of study.
📊 Summary of Key Changes – PGWP 2025
| 📝 Criteria | ✅ Previously Eligible | ❌ Now Ineligible (Post-Sep 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Field of Study | Most diploma/degree programs | Certain private college & niche fields |
| College Type | Public & private DLI colleges | Some private DLIs are excluded now |
| Delivery Mode | In-person & hybrid | Fully online programs excluded |
| Program Length | 8+ months | Must still be 8+ months |
⚠️ Important: Not all private colleges are affected. IRCC has published a list of approved Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) and eligible fields of study.
3. Which Fields Are No Longer Eligible?
Here are some fields of study now considered ineligible for PGWP post-September 2025 if completed through unauthorized private institutions:
| 🚫 Ineligible Programs (If from unauthorized DLIs) |
|---|
| General Arts and Sciences |
| Hospitality & Hotel Management (in some private colleges) |
| Business Administration (non-degree) |
| Early Childhood Education (short-term diplomas) |
| IT programs under 8 months |
| Online-only programs |
4. Still Eligible Programs (From Authorized Institutions)
| 🏫 PGWP-Eligible Programs (as per IRCC) |
|---|
| Public college diplomas and degrees |
| University undergraduate and graduate programs |
| Healthcare-related programs (e.g., Nursing, Pharma) |
| Engineering and STEM degrees |
| Design and Architecture |
| Skilled Trades and Tech certifications (from approved schools) |
5. What This Means for You
If you’re planning to apply for a Canada Study Visa in 2025 or already enrolled, this change could affect your PGWP eligibility. Choosing the wrong program may cost you your work permit.
6. Visa Master Canada Tip
Don’t risk your future by enrolling in an ineligible college or program. At VisaMasterCanada.com, we help you:
- Select PGWP-eligible programs and DLIs
- Guide you through college admissions
- Secure your Canada Study Permit
- Plan your PR pathway via PGWP
🎯 Book a free consultation now and we’ll help you choose the right program with PGWP assurance.
7. Real Student Case – How We Helped Save a PGWP
Meet Aarav from Delhi. He enrolled in a diploma at a private college in Toronto in 2024. By the time he graduated in 2025, IRCC had updated the PGWP rules.
With quick support from VisaMasterCanada, we helped him:
- Switch to a PGWP-eligible public college
- Transfer credits without losing a full year
- Secure a valid work permit after graduation
💬 “Without Visa Master Canada, I would’ve lost my PGWP chance. Their team saved my future.” – Aarav S., Healthcare Admin Student
Final Advice
The new changes are meant to improve the quality of international education in Canada, but they also increase the risk for students who aren’t fully informed.
🔒 Your future in Canada begins with the right study decision.
📞 Let VisaMasterCanada.com guide your journey—right from course selection to PR.
8. FAQ – PGWP Field of Study Update 2025
Q1: Can I still apply for PGWP if I’m in a private college?
✅ Yes, but only if your college and program remain on the eligible list after September 2025.
Q2: I’m starting my course in August 2025. Am I affected?
🟡 If your program ends after Sep 1, 2025, you must follow the new rules.
Q3: What if I’ve already applied for a visa?
🔁 You may need to change your college or intake if it affects PGWP eligibility. We can help you with the switch.
Ready to Start the Right Way?
🎯 Don’t make costly mistakes. Trust the experts at VisaMasterCanada.com to keep your Canadian dream on track.
