An eligible program
Not every program at every school qualifies. Ask the college in writing whether your exact program is eligible for this permit today.
What to check
- Program name
- Campus
- In writing
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
An open work permit that some graduates of eligible Canadian programs can apply for. IRCC sets the rules. This page helps you ask the right questions before you pick a program.
- Independent counselling
- Free first consultation
- Walk-in office, Brampton ON
IRCC decides who is eligible. Ask about the permit before you pick the program.
The program is the part you can still change. The rules are set and updated by IRCC. Official source: IRCC page on working after graduation, last checked October 2026.
Open the IRCC page (opens in a new tab)What the PGWP is
What the PGWP is
What the PGWP is
The Post-Graduation Work Permit is an open work permit. Open means you are not tied to one employer. IRCC may issue it to graduates of eligible programs at eligible Canadian schools.
Whether you can get one depends on your program, your status while studying and IRCC's rules on the day you apply.
Why ask early
Many students ask about this permit before they choose a program. That is a good time to ask, because the program is the part you can still change.
Not automatic
It is not the same as your study permit, and nobody can promise it in advance.
IRCC decides who is eligible
Source: IRCC, canada.ca (opens in a new tab) · As of October 2026
The rules are on IRCC's page for working after graduation
Source: IRCC, canada.ca (opens in a new tab) · As of October 2026
IRCC may issue it to graduates of eligible programs at eligible Canadian schools
Source: IRCC, canada.ca (opens in a new tab) · As of October 2026
Four things to check
IRCC decides who is eligible. These are the areas it looks at, so you know what to ask.
Four things to check
Four things to check
IRCC decides who is eligible. These are the areas it looks at, so you know what to ask.
Your study status
IRCC looks at whether you stayed enrolled as required. If you plan to study part time or take a break, ask the college and IRCC first.
What to check
- Study load
- Planned breaks
Language proof
Some graduates are asked for a language test result. IRCC says who. Test results can expire, so check dates.
What to check
- Who must show one
- Validity date
The application window
There is a deadline after you finish your program. Look up the current one on IRCC's page the week you start your final term.
What to check
- Current deadline
- Calendar reminder
Where the rules live
Eligibility, deadlines, language proof and fees are all on the IRCC page, and it is updated when the rules change.
Pages last checked October 2026
Ask about the permit before you pick the program
Get it in writingAsk about the permit before you pick the program
Colleges and universities know whether their programs are eligible. Ask before you apply, and keep the answer. An email from the college is better than a conversation.
Questions to ask the college:
- Is this exact program, on this campus, eligible for the permit today?
- Will the program change its eligibility status during my studies?
- What study load do I have to keep?
- Which letter do you issue when I finish, and when?
If the answer is unclear, check IRCC or speak with a licensed RCIC.
How long the permit lasts
How long the permit lasts
How long the permit lasts
We do not print a number. The rules change, and IRCC's page is always current.
Check IRCC, not a blog
It follows your program
The length is connected to the length of your program. IRCC sets the rule and the limits.
More than one program
IRCC sets special rules for people who finish more than one program. Ask before you plan a second one.
Questions for the college
Ask how long your program is and which credentials you will receive. Then read IRCC's page.
Why a website number can mislead
A number on a website can be wrong by the time you read it. That includes ours, so we leave it out.
When you apply
You apply online to IRCC after you finish. You can apply yourself or retain a licensed RCIC. Study Master Canada does not give immigration advice or prepare immigration applications.
When you apply
When you apply
You apply online to IRCC after you finish. You can apply yourself or retain a licensed RCIC. Study Master Canada does not give immigration advice or prepare immigration applications.
Keep these together from your final term.
- The completion letter and transcripts from your college
- A valid passport
- Your study permit history
- A language test result, only if IRCC asks for one
- IRCC's current instructions, printed or saved
The application is yours.
- You answer IRCC's questions
- You upload your own documents
- You sign it
- You are not required to hire a representative
If your case is not simple
A licensed RCIC can advise you and act for you when you retain them. Visa Master Canada is an RCIC partner.
Anyone who gives immigration advice for a fee must be licensed.
- Ask for the licence number
- Look it up on the regulator's public register
- Ask for a written agreement before you pay
- Be careful with anyone who promises a result
Public register
In order, from program choice to application
In order, from program choice to application
In order, from program choice to application
- Step 1
Choose a program and ask about eligibility
Get the college's answer in writing.
- Step 2
Study and keep your records
Keep letters, transcripts and your study permit conditions in one folder.
- Step 3
Check the deadline when you finish
Look up the current window on IRCC's page.
- Step 4
Apply on IRCC's site
You complete it yourself, or retain a licensed RCIC.
Mistakes people ask us about
All four are avoidable with one question or one calendar note.
Mistakes people ask us about
Mistakes people ask us about
All four are avoidable with one question or one calendar note.
Missing the deadline
Write the date from IRCC in your calendar as soon as you know your completion date.
Assuming a college program counts
Eligibility is checked program by program and can change. Confirm it before you pay a deposit.
Dropping below the study load
Ask the college and IRCC how a lighter term could affect later applications, before you change anything.
Letting test results expire
If IRCC asks for a language result, an old one may not be accepted. Check the validity date.
Immigration questions go to IRCC or a licensed professional
Visa Master Canada is an RCIC partner you can retain directly. We do not give immigration advice.
PGWP questions
Plain answers. For your own case, ask IRCC or a licensed RCIC.
Independent advice
Study Master Canada provides education counselling and, with your approval, prepares and submits your college applications. We do not give immigration advice or prepare immigration applications. Regulated immigration work, including study permit applications, appeals, spouse work permits and PR pathways, is handled only by a licensed RCIC partner, Visa Master Canada, when you retain them directly. We are not affiliated with any government.
Talk to a counsellor before you decide
A free first conversation about programs, costs and next steps. No obligation, and you make every application yourself.
Book free counselling
Mon–Fri, 9:30am–6:30pm ET. Walk-in office: Unit 1805, 83 Kennedy Road South, Brampton, ON L6W 3N7.