In a major policy shift for international students, Canada has updated its list of educational programs that qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The revised list, released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on June 25, 2025, is part of a broader effort to better align post-secondary education with current labour market needs.

Key Changes:

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

• 178 programs have been removed, particularly in transport-related and low-demand trade fields.

• The total number of PGWP-eligible programs now stands at 920.

Who Is Affected?
The changes apply to students in non-degree programs who apply for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024.
Students who applied before June 25, 2025, will remain eligible under the old rules.

Focus on In-Demand Sectors:
IRCC’s revisions prioritize fields where labour shortages are most acute, especially in healthcare, education, skilled trades, STEM, and design.

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Newly Added Eligible Programs Include:

• Healthcare:

  • Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

  • Dentistry (DDS, DMD)

• Education:

  • French Language Teacher Education

  • Biology Teacher Education

  • Chemistry and Drama Education

  • Drama and Dance Teacher Education

• Skilled Trades:

  • Cabinetmaking and Millwork

  • Construction Project Management

  • CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) Machining

• STEM & Design:

  • Landscape Architecture

  • Advanced Architectural Design

Programs Removed from Eligibility:
Several programs were cut due to declining demand in those occupations, including:

• All transport-related fields

• Most agriculture programs (only one agri-food course remains)

• Environmental studies

• Marine resources management

• Solar energy

• Drywall installation

Language Proficiency Requirements:
PGWP applicants must still meet English or French proficiency benchmarks:

• Non-university program graduates: Minimum CLB/NCLC level 5

• University graduates: Minimum CLB/NCLC level 7

• Flight school graduates: Exempt from field-specific eligibility criteria, retaining a separate pathway

For the complete updated PGWP eligibility list, visit the official IRCC website.