CEC – Does foreign online study affect Canadian work experience on PGWP?

[Applicant2026]

Hello everyone,


I am currently on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and working full-time in Canada in a TEER-eligible job. I am planning to apply for PR under Canadian Experience Class (CEC) after completing 12 months of work experience.

I am considering enrolling in a fully online bachelor’s program from a UK university (distance learning, no physical presence outside Canada).

My question is:

Will enrolling in a foreign, fully online program affect the eligibility or counting of my Canadian work experience toward CEC, assuming I continue working full-time in Canada on PGWP?


From IRCC information, I understand that:

• CEC excludes work experience gained while studying as a full-time student in Canada
• There is no explicit restriction mentioned for foreign or online studies

I would appreciate confirmation from anyone who has:

• Applied under CEC in a similar situation, or
• Has official IRCC references or RCIC insight

Thank you in advance for your guidance.

 

[Naturgrl]

It is not a Canadian school and online so you can work full time on your PGWP and it counts.

 

[Applicant2026]

Thank you for the clarification.


Just to confirm one point: although the UK program is fully online and from a non-Canadian institution, it is classified as full-time by the university. Since I am currently on an active PGWP and working full-time in Canada, do you see any issue with pursuing a full-time online UK program at the same time, or any risk to my CEC eligibility or PGWP compliance?


Appreciate your guidance.

 

[Naturgrl]

Thank you for the clarification.


Just to confirm one point: although the UK program is fully online and from a non-Canadian institution, it is classified as full-time by the university. Since I am currently on an active PGWP and working full-time in Canada, do you see any issue with pursuing a full-time online UK program at the same time, or any risk to my CEC eligibility or PGWP compliance?


Appreciate your guidance.

No risk.