Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that there will be no alterations to the eligible fields of study for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in 2026. This decision is crucial for international students as the field of study plays a significant role in their program selection.
The field-of-study requirement has a major impact on international students’ decisions as it determines their access to the PGWP upon completing their studies in Canada. The recent confirmation of a freeze on eligible fields for 2026 offers students more certainty as they plan their academic pursuits.
Categories of Eligible Fields for PGWP in 2026
IRCC has categorized PGWP-eligible fields of study into six main categories that will remain unchanged throughout 2026. These categories include:
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- Agriculture and agri-food
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- Education
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- Health care and social services
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- Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)
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- Trade
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- Transport
It is important to note that these categories represent broad fields of study and not specific programs. Each category comprises various specific eligible CIP codes, and the determination of PGWP eligibility is based on the CIP code associated with the student’s program of study.
List of Study Programs Eligible for PGWP in 2026
When applying for a PGWP, it is essential for students to verify whether their program’s CIP code is included in the list of eligible fields for 2026. Ensuring that their program falls under one of the approved categories is crucial for international students seeking post-graduation work opportunities in Canada.
