Starting November 1, 2024, IRCC has introduced new language proficiency requirements as part of the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) application process Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) These updates aim to improve the integration of international graduates into Canada’s workforce, ensuring they possess the necessary language skills to succeed in the country’s labour market.
Here are the key updates for 2024
New Language Requirements for PGWP by IRCC
There are new language requirements in place for international students applying for a PGWP on or after November 1, 2024. These requirements refer to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB), a national standard used to measure language proficiency for immigration and citizenship purposes.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is widely accepted by the Canadian Government as proof of English language proficiency. It is important to understand that IELTS is entirely compatible with CLB. This guide explains how your IELTS score aligns with CLB and how it matters for various immigration programs. You can also find resources to help you on your journey to permanent residency in Canada.
If you have taken or plan to take the IELTS, aligning your scores with the CLB can help students determine their eligibility for a PGWP and allow them to submit the right documents when applying.
Applying For a PGWP After November 1, 2024: What You Need to Know
For international students submitting their study permit applications on or after November 1, 2024, and applying for a PGWP after November 1, 2024, these are the rules. In addition to meeting new language benchmarks, you will also need to satisfy field of study requirements in certain cases:
Students graduating with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree from a university, must meet the above language proficiency requirements in either English or French (CLB/NCLC of 7 in all four language areas). There are no additional field of study requirements for applicants in this category, and all fields of study are eligible.
Students graduating in any other university program must meet the above language proficiency requirements in either English or French (CLB/NCLC 7 in all four language areas) and graduate from an eligible field of study linked to Canada’s labour market needs.
Students graduating from a college program or any other program not listed above must meet the above language proficiency requirements in either English or French (CLB/NCLC 5 in all four language areas) and graduate from an eligible field of study linked to Canada’s labour market needs.
Here are the scores you will need when choosing General IELTS for your PGWP:
For university degree holders (Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate): IELTS Band 6 in all areas
For other university programs: IELTS Band 6 in all areas
For college and other programs: IELTS Band 5 in all areas
IDP IELTS-Canada Can Help You Meet New Language Requirements
IELTS is a secure English-language test that is accepted by more than 12,000 organizations across the globe, from educational institutions to employers, as well as government and professional bodies.
IELTS helps meet your language requirements while giving organizations a trusted English language rating. Here are some of the advantages of booking your test today:
Results for IELTS on computer are typically available within 48 hours
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Free practice tests and preparation material at https://ielts.idp.com/prepare
A real speaking test with someone listening to you
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Learn more about:
Which Test is Right for You, and more.
IELTS by IDP. Countless Canadian Dreams. One English Test. Trusted and chosen by millions. For more information about the IRCC rules and requirements, visit these official pages: