New rules for post-graduation work permit (PGWP): What you need to know about the field of study requirement
education • September 8, 2025
As of November 1, 2024, a new field of study requirement was introduced for some international students to be eligible for a PGWP. The Government of Canada has updated the rules to align eligible study programs with long-term labour market needs.
This change helps you because it will:
- Lead you to opportunities that are in high demand
- Start you on the path to building a successful career
- Inspire you to consider unique programs of study
- Set you up for success if you hope to apply for permanent residence
This blog will help you understand which programs are eligible, explore in-demand job prospects, and discover study programs across Canada.
Who is affected by the field of study requirement?
You are only affected if:
- You are studying in a college diploma, certificate, or a non-degree university program
- You want to apply for a PGWP after you graduate
- You applied for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024
This change does not affect you if:
- You are studying in a university degree program (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD)
- You are studying at a PGWP-eligible flight school
- You applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024
What makes a program eligible for a PGWP?
If you are affected by the field of study requirement, you must have graduated from a program that’s on the list of currently eligible Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes when you submit your PGWP application. A CIP code is a 6-digit number used to classify post-secondary education programs according to the field of study.
You can check if your program qualifies by looking it up on IRCC’s official CIP code list.
How do I find my CIP code?
To find your program’s CIP code, you can:
- check your college's website
- contact your college directly for more information about the program
- search the Statistics Canada CIP classification catalogue and find the 6-digit code that’s most applicable
In-demand fields of study for PGWP eligibility
Here's a quick overview of 6 key sectors that most CIP codes fall under, along with examples of eligible programs across Canada:
This list was last updated July 2025. Check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date list of currently eligible CIP codes. The list will be updated in early 2026.
Agriculture and agri-food
From farming to food production, the agriculture and agri-food industry supports Canada's food system and exports. Canada’s agricultural industry is vital to food security and supply chain.
Example jobs:
- Agricultural Technician (example CIP code: 01.0204 - Agricultural power machinery operation)
- Agricultural Logistics or Distribution Coordinator (example CIP code: 01.0105 - Agricultural/farm supplies retailing and wholesaling)
- Farm Manager (example CIP code: 01.0104 - Farm/ranch management)
Related study programs:
Education
Canada is investing in the next generation of educators, especially those who can support diverse learners, early childhood development, and special education needs. Studying in the field of education can open doors to meaningful, high-demand careers that help shape communities and the future population of the country.
Example jobs:
- Early Childhood Educator (example CIP code: 19.0706 - Child Development)
- High School Math Teacher (example CIP Code: 13.1311 - Mathematics Teacher Education)
- Autism Support Educator (example CIP Code: 13.1013 - Education/Teaching of Individuals with Autism)
Related study programs:
Healthcare and social services
Canada’s healthcare and social support systems are under growing pressure due to an aging population, staff shortages, and increasing community care needs. This field offers the chance to enter high-impact careers that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Example jobs:
- Dentist (example CIP code: 51.0401 - Dentistry)
- Nurse (example CIP code: 51.3901 - Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training)
- Veterinarian (example CIP code: 01.8001 - Veterinary Medicine)
Related study programs:
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
STEM fields fuel innovation and remain central to economic growth and digital transformation. This category includes fields like cybersecurity, data science, renewable energy, and industrial automation, all of which offer great job prospects.
Example jobs:
- Software Developer (example CIP code: 11.0201 - Computer Programming/Programmer, General)
- Civil Engineering Technologist (example CIP code: 15.0201 - Civil Engineering Technology/Technician)
- Environmental Technician (example CIP code: 15.0507 - Environmental Engineering Technology/Environmental Technology)
Related study programs:
Trades
Skilled trades are the backbone of Canada's infrastructure, housing, manufacturing, and energy sectors. With a wave of retirements and growing demand in both urban and rural areas, Canada needs trained workers to fill roles in construction, maintenance, and technical services. Trades programs are offered at many colleges and vocational schools across Canada.
Example jobs:
- Electrician (example CIP code: 46.0302 - Electrician)
- Plumber (example CIP code: 46.0503 - Plumbing Technology/Plumber)
- Welder (example CIP code: 48.0508 - Welding Technology/Welder)
Related study programs:
Transport
Transport and logistics careers keep Canada’s vast economy moving. Programs in this field will prepare you for work delivering goods across provinces and territories, connecting remote communities to urban centres, and managing supply chains. As global trade grows, there’s a rising demand for skilled professionals in transportation and operations.
Example jobs:
- Commercial Truck Driver (example CIP code: 49.0205 - Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor)
- Logistics Coordinator (example CIP code: 52.0203 - Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management)
- Railway Conductor (example CIP code: 49.0208 - Railroad and Railway Transportation)
Related study programs:
Are you planning to study in Canada?
If you're planning your PGWP pathway, you should confirm that your program is eligible by checking the CIP code.
To check if your program is eligible for a PGWP, look it up on IRCC’s official CIP code list.
Learn more
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