Canada Reinstates PGWP Eligibility For 178 Study Fields Until 2026

On July 4, 2025, Canada dropped an update for international students: 178 fields of study removed from the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility list on June 25, 2025, are back in play!

This major policy reversal means students in these fields can once again apply for a PGWP, a critical step toward building a career in Canada.

The reinstated 178 fields will remain eligible until early 2026, and even those who applied for study permits between June 25 and July 4, 2025, are covered.

This exciting update has sparked a wave of optimism among international

, and it’s time to dive into what this means for you, how to check your eligibility, and why this change could shape your future in Canada.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the July 4, 2025, PGWP update, explain how to verify if your program’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code is eligible, and provide actionable steps to ensure you seize this opportunity.

Let’s explore why this update is a game-changer and how you can make the most of it!

What is the PGWP and Why Does It Matter?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a golden ticket for international students in Canada.

It allows graduates from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.

This open work permit is not tied to a specific job or employer, giving graduates the flexibility to gain valuable Canadian work experience in their field.

For many, the PGWP is a stepping stone to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

The PGWP’s importance cannot be overstated.

It’s a bridge between studying in Canada and building a long-term career, offering international students a chance to contribute to the Canadian economy while gaining skills and experience.

However, eligibility for the PGWP is tied to specific criteria, including the field of study requirement, which is where the July 4, 2025, update comes into play.

The July 4, 2025, PGWP Update: What Changed?

On June 25, 2025, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made a controversial move by removing 178 fields of study from the PGWP eligibility list.

This decision left many international students uncertain about their future, as their programs no longer qualified for the coveted work permit.

The 178 fields removed were deemed less critical to Canada’s long-term labour market needs, causing frustration among students who had invested time and money in their Canadian education.

Fast forward to July 4, 2025, and the IRCC reversed this decision in a surprising and welcome update.

The 178 fields of study removed on June 25 were reinstated, meaning students in these programs can once again apply for a PGWP.

This reinstatement is set to remain in effect until early 2026, when the eligibility list will be reviewed again.

Even better, students who submitted study permit applications between June 25 and July 4, 2025, for these previously ineligible fields are still covered under the new rules.

This retroactive provision ensures fairness for those caught in the brief period of ineligibility.

Why This Update is a Big Deal

Canada Reinstates PGWP Eligibility For 178 Study Fields Until 2026

The reinstatement of these fields is a lifeline for thousands of international students.

Here’s why this update is generating buzz:

Restored Opportunities: Students in fields like business, technology, healthcare, and other in-demand sectors can now plan their careers in Canada with confidence.

Retroactive Relief: The inclusion of students who applied during the June 25–July 4 window shows Canada’s commitment to supporting international talent.

Alignment with Labour Market Needs: The reinstated 178 fields are linked to jobs in long-term shortage, ensuring graduates can contribute to Canada’s economy.

Pathway to Permanent Residency: The PGWP is a critical step toward permanent residency, and this update keeps that dream alive for more students.

Boost for Canada’s Education Sector: The policy change reinforces Canada’s appeal as a top destination for international students, driving enrollment and economic growth.

What is a CIP Code?

A CIP code is a standardized system used to classify instructional programs at colleges and universities.

Each program, from computer science to nursing, is assigned a unique six-digit code.

For PGWP eligibility, your program’s CIP code must be on the IRCC’s list of eligible codes when you submit either your study permit application or your PGWP application.

How to Check If Your CIP Code is Eligible

To confirm your program’s eligibility, follow these steps:

Find Your Program’s CIP Code: Check with your institution’s registrar or program office to obtain the six-digit CIP code for your specific program.

Review the Eligible CIP Code List: Visit the IRCC website to access the updated list of eligible CIP codes, effective as of July 4, 2025.

Verify Timing: Ensure your CIP code was eligible when you submitted your study permit application or when you apply for the PGWP.

The July 4 update ensures that fields removed on June 25 are now eligible again, and this applies retroactively for study permit applications submitted between June 25 and July 4, 2025.

Consult IRCC Resources: If you’re unsure, contact IRCC or your institution’s international student office for guidance.

Who Doesn’t Need to Meet the Field of Study Requirement?

Not all students are subject to the field of study requirement.

You may be exempt if:

• • You graduated from a program at a designated learning institution (DLI) that doesn’t fall under the field of study requirement (e.g., certain general arts or science programs).
  • Your program was completed before the field of study requirement was introduced or during a period when your CIP code was eligible.

Always check with IRCC to confirm your exemption status, as requirements can vary based on your program and graduation date.

How to Meet the Field of Study Requirement

Canada Reinstates PGWP Eligibility For 178 Study Fields Until 2026

To meet the field of study requirement for a PGWP, your program must align with Canada’s labour market needs.

The reinstated fields from the July 4, 2025, update are linked to jobs in long-term shortage, such as:

• Healthcare: Nursing, medical laboratory technology, and pharmacy.
• Technology: Computer science, software engineering, and data analytics.
• Business: Accounting, finance, and supply chain management.
• Skilled Trades: Engineering technology, construction, and automotive repair.

These fields are critical to Canada’s economy, and graduates in these areas are in high demand.

By ensuring your program’s CIP code is on the eligible list, you can secure a PGWP and start your career in Canada.

What Happens Next?

The reinstated fields will remain eligible until early 2026, when IRCC plans to review the CIP code list again.

This gives students a window of opportunity to apply for a PGWP and gain Canadian work experience.

However, the labour market is dynamic, and future updates could shift eligibility again.

To stay ahead, monitor IRCC announcements and consult with your institution’s international student advisors.

If you applied for a study permit between June 25 and July 4, 2025, you’re in luck.

The retroactive provision ensures your program remains eligible, even if it was briefly removed from the list.

This safety net protects students who were caught off guard by the June 25 changes.

Actionable Steps for International Students

Ready to take advantage of the July 4, 2025, PGWP update?

Here’s what you need to do:

Confirm Your CIP Code: Contact your institution to get your program’s six-digit CIP code.

Check Eligibility: Cross-reference your CIP code with the IRCC’s updated list of eligible codes.

Prepare Your PGWP Application: Gather required documents, including proof of graduation and your study permit.

Apply Within Deadlines: Submit your PGWP application within 180 days of completing your program, ensuring your CIP code is eligible at the time of application.

Stay Informed: Follow IRCC updates for any changes to the eligibility list, especially as early 2026 approaches.

The July 4, 2025, PGWP update is a game-changer for international students in Canada.

By reinstating fields removed on June 25 and extending eligibility to early 2026, Canada is reaffirming its commitment to attracting global talent.

Whether you’re studying in a high-demand field like healthcare or technology, this is your chance to secure a PGWP and build a future in Canada.

Don’t wait—check your program’s CIP code, confirm your eligibility, and start preparing your PGWP application today.

With the retroactive provision for June 25–July 4 applicants and a clear path to Canadian work experience, the opportunities are endless.