IRCC Freezes PGWP-Eligible Courses for 2026

For 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed a freeze on the list of eligible fields of study (CIP codes). This means that IRCC does not plan to add or remove any eligible fields of study for PGWP’s in 2026.

In this article, we walk you through the process for working out if your field of study is eligible for a PGWP step by step.

What does the PGWP field of study freeze for 2026 mean? 

IRCC has confirmed that no fields of study will be added to or removed from the PGWP‑eligible list in 2026. 

This means: 

• The list of eligible CIP codes remains the same as it is now 

• Programs that are currently eligible will stay eligible 

• Programs that are currently ineligible will not be added in 2026 

This stability gives students greater certainty when planning study and work pathways, but it also means that checking your eligibility carefully is essential. 

How to work out if your study program is eligible for a PGWP?  

Step 1: Check whether you are exempt from the field of study requirement 

Before reviewing any CIP codes, start here. Many students do not need to meet the field of study requirement at all. 

You do not need to meet the field of study requirement if any one of the following applies to you: 

• You submitted your PGWP application before November 1, 2024, regardless of your level of study 

• You graduated from a PGWP‑eligible flight school 

• You graduated with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree 

• You applied for your study permit before November 1, 2024 

If one of these situations applies to you, the CIP field of study list does not affect your PGWP eligibility in 2026. 

If this is you: You can skip directly to confirming that your institution and program are otherwise PGWP‑eligible. 

Step 2: Confirm whether the field of study requirement applies to you 

You must meet the field of study requirement if: 

• You are graduating from a program below the bachelor’s level (such as a diploma or certificate), and 

• You do not meet any of the exemption criteria listed above 

If that describes your situation, your program must fall under an eligible CIP code in order for you to qualify for a PGWP in 2026. 

Step 3: Understand which fields of study may be eligible 

Eligible programs generally fall within fields that align with Canada’s labour market priorities. These include: 

• Agriculture and agri‑food 

• Education 

• Healthcare and social services 

• STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) 

• Trades 

• Transport. 

There are more than 1,000 specific programs listed – so just studying a program within the broader categories outlined above isn’t enough. Your specific program must be eligible.  

Eligibility is determined by your program’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code, not by the program name alone. 

We recommend searching the official IRCC list of currently eligible fields of study to determine if your program is eligible.  

Step 4: Find your program’s CIP code 

Your CIP code is usually listed: 

• On your letter of acceptance 

• In your school’s program details 

• Through your institution’s registrar or international student office 

Do not assume eligibility based on similar programs or general subject areas. The exact CIP code matters. 

If you are unsure, ask your institution to confirm the code in writing. 

Step 5: Match your CIP code against the eligible list 

Once you have your CIP code: 

1. Locate it in the official IRCC table 
2. Confirm it appears on the eligible list 
3. Double‑check that your program length and institution meet PGWP requirements 

If your CIP code appears on the list, and you meet all other PGWP conditions, the 2026 freeze means your eligibility is not expected to change. 

If your CIP code does not appear on the list, it will not become eligible in 2026 under the current policy. 

Step 6: Plan early if your eligibility is uncertain 

Because the field of study list will not change in 2026, students who may be affected should consider: 

• Confirming eligibility before starting or switching programs 

• Speaking with an immigration professional if their situation is complex 

• Exploring alternative pathways, such as employer‑supported work permits or provincial nomination options 

The earlier you assess your position, the more options you are likely to have. 

Key takeaway for international students 

The 2026 PGWP field of study freeze locks in the current rules. 

For many students — particularly those graduating with bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees — this change will have little to no impact. For others, especially diploma and certificate students, understanding and verifying CIP eligibility is now more important than ever. 

Taking a structured, step‑by‑step approach is the best way to avoid surprises and protect your post‑graduation plans.