Concerns about graduate certificates; best route for 3 year PGWP?

[silvrblu]

My goal is to acquire a three year PGWP in Canada which can eventually lead to PR, but I need some guidance to make sure my study permit doesn't get rejected.

I have a diploma and a bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management (from University of Derby), but I would like to switch my career, if possible.

As such, I found the graduate certificates in areas such as data analytics and artificial intelligence compelling. Some of these programs offer three to four semesters.

However, I know my educational background will play a role in my assessment. I'm concerned that I won't get a study permit because my selected course wouldn't match my prior studies. I'm also concerned about whether I'll gain express entry points by completing a graduate certificate.

So my question is this: what would be the best option for me to make my case for a study permit as strong as possible, and to ensure I get a three year PGWP? I know the program duration should be two years, should I apply for another diploma in a different field?

For what it's worth, my brother is a Canadian national, and I plan on staying with him to share living expenses. I feel like this would help my case.

I'm 29, from Pakistan.

 

[scylla]

My goal is to acquire a three year PGWP in Canada which can eventually lead to PR, but I need some guidance to make sure my study permit doesn't get rejected.

I have a diploma and a bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management (from University of Derby), but I would like to switch my career, if possible.

As such, I found the graduate certificates in areas such as data analytics and artificial intelligence compelling. Some of these programs offer three to four semesters.

However, I know my educational background will play a role in my assessment. I'm concerned that I won't get a study permit because my selected course wouldn't match my prior studies. I'm also concerned about whether I'll gain express entry points by completing a graduate certificate.

So my question is this: what would be the best option for me to make my case for a study permit as strong as possible, and to ensure I get a three year PGWP? I know the program duration should be two years, should I apply for another diploma in a different field?

For what it's worth, my brother is a Canadian national, and I plan on staying with him to share living expenses. I feel like this would help my case.

I'm 29, from Pakistan.

- Generally speaking, you want your choice of programs in Canada to relate directly to your previous education and work experience. Otherwise this increases the chances of refusal. Best option is to select a program that is related to your past experience / education and that also progresses your eduction. So since you have a bachelor degree, you want take at least a post graduate certificate in Canada (not a graduate certificate, a graduate certificate is a lower leve of education than the one you already have)
- Having your brother in Canada will actually weaken your application. Note that you must still show full proof of funds even if you are living with him. Make sure you are aware of the changes to proof of funds effective January 1.

 

[silvrblu]

- Generally speaking, you want your choice of programs in Canada to relate directly to your previous education and work experience. Otherwise this increases the chances of refusal. Best option is to select a program that is related to your past experience / education and that also progresses your eduction. So since you have a bachelor degree, you want take at least a post graduate certificate in Canada (not a graduate certificate, a graduate certificate is a lower leve of education than the one you already have)
- Having your brother in Canada will actually weaken your application. Note that you must still show full proof of funds even if you are living with him. Make sure you are aware of the changes to proof of funds effective January 1.

Thank you for your response. I suppose it would be better if I applied for a post-graduate certificate in tourism or hospitality instead. Is it possible for me to apply for a diploma again and not list my previous education, would that be another option?

I am aware of the proof of funds requirements, but wouldn't I gain express entry points due to my brother's status?

 

[scylla]

Thank you for your response. I suppose it would be better if I applied for a post-graduate certificate in tourism or hospitality instead. Is it possible for me to apply for a diploma again and not list my previous education, would that be another option?

I am aware of the proof of funds requirements, but wouldn't I gain express entry points due to my brother's status?

You should not hide your past education. First of all, it's a bad idea to misrepresent information in your application. Secondly, this may create challenges once you want to apply for PR and want points for this education. IRCC keeps all applications on record.

Yes, you will gain points for having a brother in Canada for EE. However you are not applying for EE. You are applying for a study permit. Having ties to Canada works against you for a study permit.

 

[silvrblu]

You should not hide your past education. First of all, it's a bad idea to misrepresent information in your application. Secondly, this may create challenges once you want to apply for PR and want points for this education. IRCC keeps all applications on record.

Yes, you will gain points for having a brother in Canada for EE. However you are not applying for EE. You are applying for a study permit. Having ties to Canada works against you for a study permit.

Thanks for your advice, I hadn't known that having ties in Canada would work against me for a study permit.

Given my situation, what would your recommendation be for my study program in Canada? Should I start exploring post-graduate certificates in particular?

 

[scylla]

Thanks for your advice, I hadn't known that having ties in Canada would work against me for a study permit.

Given my situation, what would your recommendation be for my study program in Canada? Should I start exploring post-graduate certificates in particular?

Either post graduate certificate or masters.