IRCC freezes list of PGWP fields of study in Canada for 2026
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced an important update affecting international students, confirming that the list of fields of study eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) will remain unchanged throughout 2026.
This decision provides greater clarity and policy stability for students planning to study and work in Canada during this period.
1. What Does the PGWP Field of Study in Canada Freeze Mean?
IRCC has confirmed that no new fields of study will be added to, or removed from, the PGWP-eligible list during 2026. The current eligibility criteria will remain in effect without modification.
As a result, programs that are currently eligible will stay eligible until the end of 2026, while programs not on the list will not become eligible during this time.
What this means for students
- No unexpected eligibility changes during studies
- Greater certainty when choosing a program
- Easier academic and career planning
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2. Why Does Canada Use a PGWP-Eligible Field of Study List?
Canada links PGWP eligibility to specific fields of study to better align international education with labour market needs. The goal is to ensure graduates contribute to sectors experiencing skills shortages.
This approach allows Canada to manage immigration strategically while improving employment outcomes for international graduates.
What is the CIP system?
IRCC uses the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system to identify the actual academic field of a program, regardless of how the program is marketed by an institution.
3. Which Students Are Most Affected by the Freeze?
The freeze mainly impacts students enrolled in non-degree programs, where PGWP eligibility depends directly on the field of study.
Students completing bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees are generally not affected, as these degrees remain PGWP-eligible regardless of specialization.
Most affected groups
- Diploma students
- Certificate and vocational program students
- Short post-secondary programs
4. What Are the Main PGWP-Eligible Fields of Study?
The main PGWP-eligible fields of study are selected to align with Canada’s workforce demands and long-term economic goals. These fields are identified based on labour shortages, employment trends, and the country’s need for skilled professionals. By focusing on areas that support economic growth, the policy helps improve job prospects for international graduates. Enrolling in an eligible field can also strengthen a student’s chances of gaining Canadian work experience and pursuing future immigration opportunities.
Examples of eligible fields
- Healthcare and social services
- Education
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
- Skilled trades and technical programs
- Agriculture and natural resources
- Transportation and logistics
5. How Does the Freeze Affect Program Selection?
Freezing the PGWP-eligible list makes choosing a program in 2026 more predictable, as eligibility rules will not change during the study period. However, the freeze does not expand eligibility; only programs already on the list remain valid.
Key points to consider
- The freeze stabilizes the list but does not add new programs
- Programs not currently eligible will remain ineligible
- CIP code matters more than the program name
Decision-making guide
| Student situation | Recommended action | Risk level |
|---|---|---|
| Applying for 2026 intake | Choose a currently eligible program | Low |
| Already studying | Eligibility remains secure | Low |
| Considering a non-eligible program | Reassess program choice | High |
| Planning permanent residence | Select an in-demand field | Low |
6. How Can Students Confirm PGWP Eligibility?
Students can confirm PGWP eligibility by reviewing the official criteria from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before enrolling in a program. Eligibility typically depends on the institution, the program type, and whether it meets current requirements. Verifying this information early helps students make informed decisions and avoid unexpected challenges after graduation.
Steps to verify eligibility
- Request the program’s CIP code from the institution
- Match the code with IRCC’s official eligibility list
- Confirm the institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
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7. What Does the Freeze Mean for Study and Immigration Planning?
The freeze provides international students with a rare period of policy stability, allowing them to plan their studies with greater confidence.
It also supports clearer career and immigration planning, including gaining Canadian work experience and preparing for permanent residence pathways.
Key benefits
- Stable PGWP rules through 2026
- Reduced policy-related risk
- Improved long-term planning
8. Will the PGWP-Eligible List Change After 2026?
The PGWP-eligible list freeze applies only to 2026 and should not be viewed as a permanent policy. After this period, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may reassess the list based on labour market needs and economic priorities. As a result, students should stay informed about future updates when planning their long-term study and immigration goals.
Factors that may influence future changes
- Labour market demand and shortages
- Employment outcomes of international graduates
- National immigration targets
- Provincial workforce needs
What students should keep in mind
- A field eligible today may not remain eligible long-term
- Choosing an in-demand field reduces future risk
- Monitoring IRCC updates is essential for long-term plans
Conclusion
IRCC’s decision to freeze the PGWP-eligible fields of study for 2026 provides international students with much-needed clarity and stability when planning their education in Canada. However, while the freeze reduces the risk of eligibility changes during a program, it does not eliminate the need for careful program selection, particularly for diploma and certificate students. At Get in Canada, we emphasize that understanding immigration policies and confirming PGWP eligibility before enrollment are essential steps toward building a successful academic and professional future. Ultimately, making the right choice today can significantly influence post-graduation work opportunities and long-term settlement prospects in Canada.
