Update on Eligible CIP Codes for PGWP: What International Students Need to Know (July 2025)

If you’re an international student planning to study in Canada—or you’ve already applied for a study permit—there’s an important update you should know about.

On July 4, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated the list of eligible Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes, restoring several fields of study that had been removed just days earlier, on June 25, 2025.

This change affects who may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) under the field of study requirement, and ultimately, it could impact your pathway to permanent residency in Canada.

What Changed?

• IRCC has reinstated several previously removed fields of study (CIP codes) back into the eligible list as of July 4, 2025.
• These fields are once again considered linked to occupations experiencing long-term labour shortages in Canada.
• You can view the most up-to-date list here: Eligible Fields of Study – IRCC

What If You Applied Between June 25 and July 4?

Good news! If you submitted your study permit application between June 25 and July 4, 2025, in one of the fields temporarily removed during that period:

You will still meet the field of study requirement for PGWP eligibility when you graduate.
This ensures that no applicants are unfairly penalized due to timing during the short eligibility gap.

Why Does This Matter?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a vital stepping stone for many international students hoping to:

• Gain Canadian work experience
• Qualify for permanent residency through programs like CEC (Canadian Experience Class) or PNPs (Provincial Nominee Programs)
• Secure employment in fields aligned with Canada’s labour market priorities

Eligible fields of study are directly tied to occupations facing long-term shortages across Canada. These needs evolve and so does the eligibility list—so it’s crucial to stay up to date.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’re a current or future international student:

1. Check if your program’s CIP code is eligible on the official IRCC list.
2. Confirm your program’s code with your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) before applying.
3. Keep documentation of your application date and field of study if you applied between June 25–July 4.
4. Stay informed—the next CIP code update is expected in early 2026.

Need help understanding how this change affects your study plan or PGWP eligibility?
Contact us for personalized advice or to speak with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).