In a major development for international students, Canada has updated its list of academic programs eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
The revised list, released by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on June 25, 2025, reflects a strategic effort to align education pathways with the country’s current labor shortages.
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What’s New?
The update includes 119 new areas of study added to the eligibility list and the removal of 178 programs, many of which are related to transportation and trades that are no longer in demand. With this adjustment, the total number of PGWP-eligible programs now stands at 920.
Who Is Affected by the New PGWP Rules?
These changes apply only to students in non-degree programs who apply for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024.
Students who submitted their study permit application before June 25, 2025, are not affected and remain eligible under the previous criteria.
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New PGWP List Focuses on In-Demand Jobs
Canada’s updated PGWP list emphasizes academic programs tied to fields with known labor shortages.
Newly Added Fields Include:
- Healthcare: Veterinary medicine, dental sciences, dentistry
- Education: French, biology, chemistry, and drama teacher training
- Skilled Trades: Construction management, cabinetmaking, CNC machining
- STEM & Architecture: Landscape design, advanced architectural design
On the other hand, programs related to solar energy, drywall installation, marine resource management, and environmental studies have been removed due to declining industry demand.
According to IRCC, these removals reflect a data-driven strategy to focus immigration opportunities where skill shortages are most urgent.
For the full, updated list of eligible programs, students are advised to visit the official IRCC site, where the list is organized using the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) framework.
Transportation and Some STEM Fields Lose Eligibility
Not all areas fared well in the update. The IRCC has removed:
- All transportation-related programs
- Several agricultural fields (with only one agri-food program remaining)
- Some STEM areas, including environmental studies and marine resources
- Trade programs such as solar energy and drywall installation
Why the Change?
IRCC stated that the update reflects labor market conditions. Programs were removed if they were linked to occupations no longer facing national shortages.
This shift is designed to direct international graduates toward sectors with genuine, long-term demand.
Language Requirements and Special Exceptions
All PGWP applicants must meet specific language proficiency standards:
- Non-University Graduates: Minimum CLB/NCLC Level 5
- University Graduates: No field-based restrictions
- Flight School Graduates: Remain exempt from field-specific rules
These standards ensure that students are ready to enter Canada’s workforce, especially in regions where English or French proficiency is essential for employment.
Canada’s 2025 PGWP update sends a clear message to prospective international students: Choose programs that align with national employment priorities.
By selecting study paths that match this updated eligibility list, you’re not just earning a diploma — you’re paving the way for a meaningful career and potential immigration opportunities in Canada.
