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Shawn X

Newbie
May 10, 2026
3
0
Hi everyone,


I was working in Canada on a valid PGWP while attending a 200-hour Full-Time AZ tractor-trailer program at an Ontario-registered private career college.


The school is not a DLI, the program was under 6 months, and I did not need a study permit. It was a vocational truck-driving program, and after completion I received a diploma and academic transcript. My job was completely separate from the school and was authorized by my PGWP.


IRPR 87.1(3)(a) says that employment during full-time study should not be counted toward CEC work experience. What I am trying to understand is whether this also applies to a short-term, non-DLI vocational program like AZ truck driver training.


Has anyone had a similar situation with a private career college, trade school, truck driving school, or another short vocational program? Did IRCC count or exclude the work experience during that period?
 
Hi everyone,


I was working in Canada on a valid PGWP while attending a 200-hour Full-Time AZ tractor-trailer program at an Ontario-registered private career college.


The school is not a DLI, the program was under 6 months, and I did not need a study permit. It was a vocational truck-driving program, and after completion I received a diploma and academic transcript. My job was completely separate from the school and was authorized by my PGWP.


IRPR 87.1(3)(a) says that employment during full-time study should not be counted toward CEC work experience. What I am trying to understand is whether this also applies to a short-term, non-DLI vocational program like AZ truck driver training.


Has anyone had a similar situation with a private career college, trade school, truck driving school, or another short vocational program? Did IRCC count or exclude the work experience during that period?

There are multiple potential issues. You were studying full-time without a study permit after spending time in Canada not right after entering Canada. Yes work while you were studying full-time may be an issue if you are attempting to count time working towards CEC. I would recommend you speak to a reputable immigration lawyer about your case.
 
Last edited:
Thanks! Just curious, why wouldn’t 87.1(3)(a) apply here?

Is it because it’s a short non-DLI program with no study permit required?

Because it's short term and doesn't require a study permit. If you managed to work and study full time and you can prove if asked. no issue.
 
There are multiple potential issues. You were studying full-time without a study permit after spending time in Canada not right after entering Canada. Yes work while you were studying full-time may be an issue if you are attempting to count time working towards CEC. I would recommend you speak to a reputable immigration lawyer about your case.
Full time study doesn't always mean you need to attend classes 8 hours a day. It can be like evenings, weekends, etc. It's okay to combine it with your full time work and no issues if it doesn't require a study permit.