Hello everyone. I am an international student currently in my last year of a 4-year degree program. I am thinking about applying for a 1-year graduate certificate program after graduating at the same education institution, to build my credentials. The program would fit the field of study requirements that are currently in place. Am I correct that after completing the certificate program, I can apply for a 3-year PGWP based on the 2 programs (bachelor + graduate certificate)? Should I be concerned that my study permit extension application might be denied or that the PGWP would be issued for less time?
Graduate Certificate after Bachelor Degree?
- Thread starter newcocon
- Start date
Take the 3 year PGWP, get a skilled job and work for two years. Learn French. Chances of study permit approval for the second program are high as you need to justify costs with career progression when you return home.
Hi, just confused on the last part. Do you mean chances of approval are low? I was hoping to use the extra year to build my credentials and then use the 3 years for PGWP after. That way I could have more time to work on English and French. Still undecided but I just wanted to confirm if I go with the second program it won't impact the length of my PGWP for 3 years.
Thought you had to complete the two programs within two years of each other...unless they changed the rules. If you took second program then only eligible for one year PGWP. Also getting a study permit for a second program will be difficult. You need to explain why you need the program and justify it with better pay and career prospects when you return home.
I didn't know about the requirement for it being within two years of each other. If I complete the bachelors in summer 2026 and then start the 1 year certificate in fall 2026, would there be any issues? I just thought that each program needed to be PGWP eligible and at least 8 months in length. The guidelines say that they would combine the lenght so I thought they would just grant the maximum 3 years for the PGWP in this scenario.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigratio...study-canada/work/after-graduation/about.html
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigratio...study-canada/work/after-graduation/about.html
“If you completed more than one program, you may be able to get a PGWP that combines the length of your programs.
To be eligible, each program must be PGWP-eligible and at least eight months in length.”
You will get the maximum 3 years PGWP
If that one year is a post-graduate certificate, you can defend it why you are taking the said program
To be eligible, each program must be PGWP-eligible and at least eight months in length.”
You will get the maximum 3 years PGWP
If that one year is a post-graduate certificate, you can defend it why you are taking the said program