Canada Changed PGWP Rules for Indian Students; Here Is What You Need to Know
Big developments from Canada that impacts Indian students,especially those seeking Postgraduate Work Permit on the completion of their Diploma programs! As per the announcement, students who joined diploma programs on or after November 1st, 2024 will not be eligible for a postgraduate work permit if they are studying in fields other than healthcare transportation along with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), transportation & agriculture.
But there is a silver lining for Indian students who are studying in bachelor or master degree courses (NOT PART TIME), as this rule does not apply to them. As a result of this change, Indian and other South Asian students can still be eligible for a PGWP while they are studying at a bachelor’s or master’s level in Canada.
What Does This Imply For Diploma Students?
In the past, a lot of Indian students chose diplomas as their way into Canada with credentials for jobs. The most recent of these restrictions means that qualifying programs are getting limited, and students choosing the right programs is more important than ever if they wish to be eligible for a PGWP. Which diploma programs are still eligible then?
Diploma Programs Eligible for PGWP (Commencing November 1, 2024)
The following helps you qualify for a PGWP if you study at an eligible public institution:
1. Healthcare Programs
• Nursing / Allied Health (e.g., Medical Lab Technician, Pharmacy Tech)
Veterinary Sciences (e.g., Veterinary Clinical Sciences)
Nutrition and Dietetics (e.g. Human Nutrition, Foods and Nutrition)
-Rehabilitation Therapy (i.e. OT Assistant, PT Assistant)
2. Programs — STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
Computer Science & Information Technology (Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity)
Engineering (Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics) •
• Environmental Science & Sustainability (Climate Science, Environmental Management)
• Biological and Biomedical Sciences – e.g. Biotechnology, Genetics, Neuroscience
3. Transportation Programs
Aviation – Aircraft Maintenance, Commercial Pilot Training
Logistics & Supply Chain Management (e.g. Transport and Logistics Management)
• Heavy Equipment Maintenance
