Work in Canada

Does graduating from a Canadian school guarantee a PGWP?

Sources reviewed October 10, 2026 · General information

THE SHORT ANSWER

No. Graduation from a designated learning institution does not automatically make you eligible for a post-graduation work permit.

How do I check my school and program?

Use the official DLI list and the PGWP eligibility page. A school offering eligible programs does not mean every program at that school qualifies.

Which details affect eligibility?

Your program, study history and application timing matter. Language and field-of-study requirements may also apply. Check the rules that apply to your credential and relevant application dates rather than relying on another graduate’s result.

What should I prepare before applying?

Organize your completion documents, transcript, passport and study-permit history. Confirm any required language test or field-of-study evidence against IRCC’s current instructions.

Go straight to the source.

Confirm the current instructions with IRCC before applying. These links are official Government of Canada resources.