Advice needed regarding PGWP eligibility

[lindor12]

Hey everyone,

My last post didn't get any hits, so I thought I'd try again. I have some questions regarding PGWP, eligibility, and am seeking general advice.

A little background:
I'm currently in my final semester of my Bachelor of Commerce degree. I was first admitted into the Bachelor of Comp Sci program, but decided to switch programs shortly after. My first Fall and Winter semesters under the BComm program were part time because I switched programs and I was out of sequence with the recommended course sequence. I also had a few part time semesters under the Comp Sci program as I needed to meet the minimum grade requirements in order to transfer to the BComm program and some courses were locked to business students.

Has anyone been in a similar situation? Were you able to obtain a 3 year PGWP? If not, what did you do after you graduated?

Another question, I've been considering enrolling in a Post Grad Diploma or Masters program, so that I'd be eligible for PGWP after. Would you recommend this? I'd prefer not to do so but would if it's my only option

 

[lindor12]

Anyone have any input?

 

[canuck78]

If you were part-time for many semesters it can certainly be an issue for a PGWP.

 

[lindor12]

If you were part-time for many semesters it can certainly be an issue for a PGWP.

Yes, but I've heard that some people may still get it, even after they were part time for a while. Also, the IRCC website states the following on the eligibility for PGWP page:

"How long your PGWP is valid for depends on the length of your study program"

So since I changed programs, wouldn't the officer only consider my status under my newer program (BComm)? That would ultimately bring down the number of part time semesters I've taken to 2. In addition, I've taken 1 full-time Summer semester, which was not a scheduled study term. Do you think this would help my chances?

 

[bongoman]

The rule is only your last semester can be part time, this determination will be based on your transcripts.
Officers have discretion to be lenient based on circumstances but that is purely up to the officer, you can consider including an explanation letter with support from your school explaining the part time.