What international graduates should know about PGWP refusals

Graduation alone is not enough

A post-graduation work permit is available only when the applicant, institution and program meet the applicable rules. Applicants should confirm that the school and program are PGWP-eligible and that they complied with the conditions of their study permit.

Language and field-of-study rules

Most applicants who apply on or after November 1, 2024 must submit qualifying English or French language results. The required level depends on the credential. Some non-degree programs must also meet the eligible field-of-study requirement, subject to the rules and exceptions that apply to the student’s study-permit date.

IRCC has frozen the eligible field-of-study list for 2026, but applicants still need to identify the correct program code and confirm whether the rule applies to them.

Timing and status matter

• A PGWP application is generally due within 180 days after written confirmation of program completion.
• A study permit must be valid when applying to benefit from the usual authorization to work while the application is processed.
• If status has expired, restoration rules and additional fees may apply, and the person may not be authorized to work while waiting.

Before filing

Review the final transcript, completion letter, passport validity, language results and the complete history of studies and leaves. If there was part-time study, an authorized leave, a school transfer or a status problem, explain it accurately and include supporting records where appropriate.