IRCC unveiled significant modifications to Canada’s international student program on January 22, 2024. Understanding the latest changes on PGWP deadlines for college students in public-private curriculum programs.
A significant modification that IRCC announced on January 22, 2024, concerns the requirements for qualifying for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program. With effect from September 1, 2024, graduates of college programs connected to public-private curriculum licensing agreements will no longer be eligible for a PGWP under the updated regulations. This change applies to graduates from college programs connected to public-private curriculum licensing agreements.
It’s important to note, though, that the IRCC changed the implementation date. The new date has been moved up to May 15, 2024 as of March 22. Therefore, foreign students enrolled in these kinds of programs and graduating after May 15, 2024, will not be eligible to apply for a PGWP. Graduates after this date will no longer qualify for a PGWP.
Understanding changes in PGWP deadlines for college students
The department took this decision in response to worries about the quality of education that overseas students are receiving at schools that are subject to public-private curriculum licensing agreements. The Ontario Auditor General’s study brought to light a deficiency in monitoring the caliber of programs provided by these establishments. It also highlighted shortcomings in monitoring student services offered by these institutions.
According to IRCC, it is expected that the inability to apply for a PGWP will result in a decrease in the number of international students enrolled at these institutions.
A different work permit may still be available to those who are affected. The IRCC pledges to collaborate with the provinces and territories to identify which programs are affected by the clarification. It will then update the list accordingly. This move is a component of the IRCC’s plan to deal with the unsustainable growth of the International Student Program in the last few years.
Updates to Post-Graduation Work Permit Eligibility Criteria
One notable adjustment to the PGWP requirements is that graduates of master’s programs that last fewer than eight months are now eligible for a three-year PGWP. This change is among other amendments to the criteria.
A PGWP’s duration usually matches the length of the applicant’s degree program. The department further clarifies that graduates from programs lasting at least two years at designated learning institutions eligible for PGWP receive a three-year PGWP. These graduates are entitled to a three-year PGWP.
These graduates are entitled to a three-year PGWP. Similarly, graduates from master’s degree programs with a duration of less than two years also qualify for this extended PGWP.
Understanding the Post-Graduation Work Permit
Graduates of Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) are actively granted an open work permit known as a PGWP. These DLIs are the only post-secondary educational establishments in Canada permitted to accept foreign students. Moreover, this permit empowers recipients to seek employment with almost any employer in Canada. For graduates from other countries, a PGWP offers a great chance to gain professional job experience in Canada. There are a lot of benefits to this experience, especially for those who want to become permanent residents of Canada.
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