International students planning to study and work in Canada received an important update in January 2026. Immigration Refugees, and Citizenship Canada confirmed that it will not change the current list of PGWP eligible fields of study for the entire year. This decision brings clarity for students who are making long-term education and immigration plans. With no additions or removals planned, students can now make informed choices about programs that can lead to a Post Graduation Work Permit.

For many students, the PGWP is a key step toward gaining Canadian work experience and building a pathway to permanent residence. Knowing that the list is frozen gives stability at a time when immigration policies continue to evolve.

What Does the PGWP Freeze for 2026 Mean

IRCC confirmed that the list of PGWP eligible fields of study will remain unchanged for 2026. This means that no programs will be added and no programs will be removed during the year.

In 2025, IRCC had stated that changes would be made in early 2026. Instead, the government has chosen to pause updates and keep the current list in place.

This freeze creates predictability for students who are already enrolled and for those who are planning to apply for study permits in 2026. For many, this removes uncertainty and allows for better academic and career planning.

Who is Affected by the Field of Study Rules

The field of study requirement mainly applies to students graduating from non-degree programs. This includes certificate and diploma-level programs. Students who complete a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree are exempt from the field of study requirement for PGWP eligibility. This means that college-level and certificate program students must be more careful when selecting programs. They must ensure their program appears on the official list of PGWP eligible fields of study. University degree students generally have more flexibility under the current rules.

Current Sectors Included in PGWP Eligible Fields of Study

At present, IRCC’s list includes one thousand one hundred seven PGWP-eligible educational programs. These programs are concentrated in sectors that support long-term labour needs in Canada. Key sectors include healthcare and social services, education, skilled trades, agriculture, science and technology, engineering and transport-related fields.

These areas reflect Canada’s workforce priorities and support economic growth across provinces. Students choosing programs in these sectors are more likely to align their studies with future employment and immigration pathways.

Why CIP Codes Matter for PGWP Eligibility

Each post-secondary program in Canada is assigned a Classification of Instructional Programs code. This six-digit CIP code determines whether a program meets the field of study requirement. Students in non-degree programs must verify that their program’s CIP code is on IRCC’s approved list before applying for a study permit or planning for PGWP.

Checking the correct CIP code before enrollment helps prevent future disappointment and protects your eligibility for a Post Graduation Work Permit. This step is essential for students who want to transition from study to work in Canada.

Background on PGWP Changes in 2025

In mid 2025, IRCC revised the list of PGWP-eligible fields of study. One hundred nineteen new programs were added, while one hundred seventy-eight were identified for removal. Later in 2025, IRCC paused the removal of programs. This allowed previously removed programs to remain eligible. With the 2026 freeze now confirmed, those programs will continue to be eligible through the end of 2026. As a result, the total number of PGWP-eligible programs increased from nine hundred twenty to one thousand one hundred seven.

What This Means for Future International Students

For students planning to begin studies in 2026, this freeze offers stability. It allows you to select programs with confidence, knowing that eligibility rules will not change during the year. This also gives students time to plan long-term immigration strategies based on current eligibility. Choosing the right program now can support future work opportunities, Canadian experience, and potential permanent residence options. Strategic planning remains important even during a freeze period.

Why Professional Guidance Still Matters

Even with a frozen list, rules around PGWP, study permits, and permanent residence continue to evolve. A small mistake in program selection or documentation can impact future eligibility. Students benefit from expert guidance to align education choices with long term immigration goals. This is especially true for college programs, career-switching students, and those planning to apply under Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs later.

The decision to freeze PGWP-eligible fields of study for 2026 provides much-needed certainty for international students. With no changes planned this year, students can plan their education and work pathways with greater confidence. By choosing approved programs, verifying CIP codes, and seeking professional guidance, students can strengthen their transition from study to work and future permanent residence in Canada.

At ImmigCanada, students receive structured guidance on selecting PGWP eligible fields of study and building long term immigration strategies. Through ImmigCanada immigration consulting services, clients work with a certified Canadian immigration consultant and Regulated immigration consultant who help ensure education choices align with future work permits and permanent residence plans.

Under the leadership of Eivy Joy Quito, widely recognized as the Best RCIC in Canada, ImmigCanada supports students with clear direction, accurate assessments, and personalized pathways. From study permit planning to PGWP and permanent residence preparation, ImmigCanada helps students make informed choices that support their future in Canada.