New rules for post-graduation work permit (PGWP): How to prepare for language requirements
education • August 8, 2025
If you would like to work in Canada after your studies, this change to the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) application process applies to you. Only graduates from PGWP-eligible flight schools are exempt from this requirement.
As of November 2024, submitting proof of language results is a mandatory requirement for PGWP applications. This change ensures you have the necessary language skills for working in Canada.
What are the language requirements for a PGWP
To be eligible for a PGWP, most applicants must now prove their language skills in English or French. The benchmark levels are based on your ability to listen, speak, read, and write in one of Canada’s official languages.
The language score you must provide proof of is based on your program of study:
- University graduates (any program) must meet at least level 7 in all 4 language areas on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) in English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) in French.
- College, polytechnic, or non-university graduates must meet at least level 5 in all 4 language areas of the CLB/NCLC.
Note: Your test results must be less than 2 years old when you submit your application.
Sample questions you might see on the language test
Answer the sample questions below to test if your English language skills could meet the level 7 Canadian Language Benchmark.
Listening
You hear: “Hi Dave, just letting you know I can’t make it to the 2 PM team meeting. I’ve been called into another urgent meeting with the director. Can you please update me afterward?”
Question: Why is the speaker unable to attend the meeting?
Answer
Answer C
The speaker has a conflicting meeting.
Reading
Passage excerpt: “To prevent workplace injuries, employees must wear safety goggles in all areas marked with hazard signs.”
Question: What should employees do in hazardous areas?
Answer
Answer C
Safety goggles are required in hazardous areas.
Writing
Question: Choose the best option for how to start a professional email to your manager explaining why you're late.
Answer
Answer C
That's a professional and respectful opening.
Speaking
Question: Which of the following is the best answer to the prompt: “Describe a time you solved a problem at work.”
Answer
Answer B
That's a clear and positive example.
4 tips to prepare for the language tests
Preparation is key to meeting the required benchmark. Here are proven strategies to prepare for the tests and ensure you meet the level requirement you need to apply for a PGWP:
1. Choose an approved test administrator
IRCC accepts results from these tests:
English tests:
- CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP-General test)
- IELTS: International English Language Testing System (IELTS General Training option)
- PTE Core: Pearson Test of English (PTE Core option)
2. Take a practice test
Begin with a practice test to assess your current language level. You can use free testing resources from the test administrator websites:
3. Focus on weak areas
If your writing is weak, practice by reading emails or online articles. You can read some of the recent blogs on our website (available in English and French):
- Learn a language in Canada
- Start your journey to a world-class education in Canada
- Study in Canada: A great place to be yourself
If understanding when people speak is difficult, listen to Canadian podcasts or workplace conversations. You can watch and listen to some of our recent testimonials from international students for practice:
- Paula and Minh’s high school experience (English)
- A Taste of Canada: International Students Try Canadian Cuisine (English)
- From Senegal to Canada: Issam’s journey studying and working in Business Management (French)
- Ahmed’s journey to studying mechanical engineering (French)
4. Use study apps and tools
The Language Portal of Canada has a variety of tools and resources to improve your language skills.
Apps like Mauril or Duolingo can build vocabulary and grammar skills. Tools like Grammarly or BonPatron can help improve your written grammar.
Ensure you have all the right documents
While this change adds an extra step to the application process, it will also help you integrate more easily when you start work in Canada after your studies.
If you’re planning to apply for a PGWP, keep these tips in mind for the language requirement:
- Start preparing for your language test early
- Choose a test date well in advance of your PGWP application
- You need to provide official scores from a certified test administrator; work experience or education alone does not prove your level
Learn more
- After your studies in Canada
- Work in Canada after you graduate: Get the right documents - IRCC
- Improving your English and French – IRCC
Report a problem on this page
- Date modified:
