If you are an international student, it’s important to pick a Canadian school and program for post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility. Not all schools and programs will qualify you for a work permit after graduation. This article explains how to choose the right school and program to work legally in Canada after your studies.
What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?
To pick a Canadian school and program for post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility, your school must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). These are schools approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to host international students. You need a letter of acceptance from a DLI when applying for your study permit. If the school is not a DLI, your study permit application will be rejected.
How to Check DLI and PGWP Eligibility
Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the IRCC DLI List page Go to the official Designated Learning Institutions list on the Government of Canada website.
- Select your province Choose the province or territory where your school is located.
- Search your school Use the search bar to find your school name, city, or DLI number.
- Check PGWP eligibility The table will show if the institution offers PGWP-eligible programs. Note the DLI number—you’ll need it for your study permit application.
📌 Note: Primary and secondary schools are automatically DLIs but are not listed in the table.
How to Check if Your Program is PGWP-Eligible
Not all programs qualify for a PGWP. You must check both the school and the program.
- Find your program’s CIP code Visit Statistics Canada’s CIP page to search by program name.
- Check PGWP eligibility by code Match your code with IRCC’s eligibility list to confirm.
- Meet field of study and language requirements Some programs need to be in eligible fields. You may also need to meet English or French language standards.
New Language and Field Requirements
As of November 1, 2024, international graduates must meet language and field-specific criteria:
| Level of Study | Language Proficiency | Field of Study Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD | CLB/NCLC 7 in all 4 skills | No restrictions |
| Other university programs | CLB/NCLC 7 in all 4 skills | Must be in an eligible field |
| College or vocational programs | CLB/NCLC 5 in all 4 skills | Must be in an eligible field |
Other PGWP Conditions to Know
To receive a PGWP, you must also:
- Complete an academic, vocational, or professional program that lasts at least 8 months.
- Maintain full-time student status during each academic session.
- Graduate with a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Submit your transcript and a letter confirming program completion.
You must also graduate from one of these:
- A public post-secondary school (college, university, trade school, or CEGEP in Quebec)
- A private school in Quebec that follows public rules
- A degree-granting private institution (degree must be provincially authorized)
How Long Will Your PGWP Be Valid?
- Master’s students (from Feb 15, 2024): Up to 3 years—even for shorter programs
- Other programs:
- 8 months to <2 years: Valid for same length as your study
- 2 years or more: Valid for up to 3 years
- If you completed more than one eligible program, PGWP validity may combine both.
Final Tips for International Students
- You can only receive one PGWP in your lifetime.
- You must remain admissible to Canada at the time you apply.
- Medical issues, criminal records, or changes in your situation can impact your application.
Need Help?
Choosing the right school and program is essential. At Alpha Immigration and Education Consultants, we help Sri Lankan students find PGWP-eligible schools and programs in Canada.
📞 Contact us today to plan your study and work journey the right way.