Post-Graduation Work Permit Canada — 2026 Eligibility Guide

If you completed a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or PhD: The field-of-study restriction does not apply to you. You can apply for a PGWP regardless of what you studied, provided you meet the language requirement.

Language requirement: CLB 7 in all four skills — reading, writing, speaking, listening. In IELTS terms, that is 6.0 in each band individually, not as an average.

If you completed a college diploma, certificate, or non-degree program: Two additional requirements apply. First, your program must fall within an eligible field of study, determined by your program’s CIP (Classification of Instructional Programs) code. Second, your language requirement is lower — CLB 5, which is approximately IELTS 5.0 per band.

The CIP code is assigned by your institution to your specific program. It is not the same as the program name. A “Business Technology” program may have a different CIP code than “Business Administration” at another school. Check your CIP code with your institution’s registrar before assuming you qualify.

 
 Credential                                 English Minimum                         French Minimum
 University degree                     CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0 per band)           NCLC 7
 College / non-degree               CLB 5 (IELTS ~5.0 per band)         NCLC 5