Yes, you can get a work permit after studying at a private institution in Canada.

However, there are specific requirements for international students to obtain a work permit for a private institution in Canada. Conditions include the post-secondary institution in question, the length of the program, the field of study, etc.

What is a post-graduation work permit and how does it work?

In Canada, a work permit received upon graduation is better known as a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).

The PGWP is a program that allows students who have graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution to obtain work experience.

It helps students to continue in Canada and work full-time after completing their program. The PGWP has a duration of up to 3 years depending on the length of the program.

When are you eligible to apply?

You have up to 180 days to apply after you have received your diploma, transcript or letter from your institution.

Your study permit must be valid during this time as well in order to apply. Some of the requirements in order to be eligible to apply are:

• Have completed a study program of at least 8 months at a designated learning institution (DLIs) that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate
• Have maintained full-time status as a student during each semester of your program
• Graduate from a public or private post-secondary institution that can award degrees under provincial law

Keep in mind that there are some people that can be deemed ‘special cases‘ by the Canadian Government and may have exceptions depending on their situation.

If you want more details on eligibility to apply, please go to the Canadian Government website.

You can apply for a PGWP when your official letter of completion is ready by your institution, which will help to confirm that you meet all the program requirements and you are done with the entire program.

Keep in mind that your letter of completion might be ready on different dates from your diploma, degree and graduation.

Which private colleges allow you to obtain a work permit in Canada?

Most post-secondary institutions listed on the DLI list allow you to apply for a PGWP after graduation. Nonetheless, keep in mind that not all designated learning institutions and not all programs of study make a student eligible for a PGWP.

For that reason, it is important to check the DLIs list and confirm if the post-secondary institution you are looking for is eligible for the offer of a PGWP. Additionally, is important to note that Acsenda is on the DLI list and is eligible to offer a PGWP permit.

How long is a post-graduation work permit valid for?

The length of the PGWP varies depending on the length of your program of studies as mentioned above. But depending on the length you can know how long your work permit can last:

• When your program lasts less than 8 months then you are not eligible to apply for a PGWP
• If your program was at least 8 months but less than 2 years, the PGWP  is valid for 8 months
• When your program was 2 years or more then your PGWP is valid for 3 years

If you want more information regarding any processes of the post-graduation work permit program, please visit the Canadian government website. Also, if you need more information regarding the PGWP in Acsenda, please contact us.