October 9, 2025
PGWP Canada: When Can International Students Study Part-Time and Still Qualify?
For many international students in Canada, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is the ultimate goal. It allows you to stay in Canada, gain valuable work experience, and even apply for permanent residency.
Most students know the main rule: to qualify for a PGWP, you must maintain full-time student status during your studies.
But here’s the good news — there are two key exceptions where you can study part-time and still remain eligible for a PGWP. At Career Wings Immigration, we help students across Canada understand these rules so they don’t risk losing their future work opportunities.
What Does “Full-Time Student” Mean in Canada
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), a full-time student is someone who:
• Has at least 15 instructional hours per week (classroom or workplace training)
• Is officially registered as full-time at their Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Since each college and university defines “full-time” differently, always confirm with your school what qualifies as a full-time course load.
Exceptions to Full-Time Status for PGWP Canada
1. Authorized Leave of Absence
Life happens — illness, family emergencies, pregnancy, or even school strikes. In these cases, international students can take an authorized leave of absence and still keep PGWP eligibility.
Conditions for PGWP eligibility during a leave:
• The leave must be approved by your DLI.
• It cannot exceed 150 days.
• Valid reasons include:
- Medical or pregnancy-related leave
- Family emergencies or death of a loved one
- School closures or strikes
- Switching schools or deferring program start
Important: Students on authorized leave cannot work on or off campus, even if their study permit allows it.
When applying for your PGWP, you must show:
• Proof that the leave was officially approved by your DLI
• Confirmation that the leave was under 150 days
2. Studying Part-Time in Your Final Semester
If you’re in your last semester and only need a few courses to graduate, you can study part-time and still qualify for a PGWP.
Keep in mind:
• You must complete your program before applying.
• To apply, you’ll need either:
- An official completion letter from your DLI, or
- An official transcript showing your final marks.
• You have 180 days after graduation to apply for your PGWP.
How and When to Apply for a PGWP in Canada
• Apply before your study permit expires — you can start working full-time immediately while waiting for approval.
• If your study permit has expired — you have 90 days to apply for your PGWP and restore your status.
- PGWP fee: $255 CAD
- Restoration of status fee: $389.75 CAD
• If you miss the 90-day deadline — you must leave Canada and apply from outside.
Common Mistakes That Can Make You Lose PGWP Eligibility
• Taking unauthorized breaks without DLI approval
• Working while on an authorized leave of absence
• Letting your study permit expire before applying for an extension
• Submitting your PGWP application late (after the 180-day or 90-day window)
Why Choose Career Wings Immigration
At Career Wings Immigration, we specialize in helping international students navigate complex study permit and PGWP regulations. Our experienced consultants help you:
• Stay compliant with IRCC requirements
• Submit error-free, complete PGWP applications
• Avoid costly mistakes that cause refusals or delays
Whether you’re studying in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, or anywhere in Canada, our team ensures your transition from student life to permanent residency is smooth and successful.
Contact Career Wings Immigration Today
Call / WhatsApp: +1-778-881-6000
Website: www.careerwingsimmigration.com
Email: info@careerwingsimmigration.com
Instagram: @careerwingsimmigration
Final Word
Maintaining full-time status is essential for PGWP eligibility, but knowing the exceptions for part-time study can make all the difference. Don’t risk your future — let Career Wings Immigration help you secure your work permit and build your career in Canada.