Nothing checked off yet

First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Pick a PGWP-eligible school

Study permit → PGWP → PRStudy in CanadaStep 9 of 13

BlockedPGWP depends on it · RequiredYou are here

9. Keep full-time status every semester

You must stay enrolled and keep full-time status in every semester of your program.

Waiting on: Collect the permit at the border

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 9 of 13 · RequiredClose

Keep full-time status every semester

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepPost-graduation work permit: who can applycanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

You must stay enrolled and keep full-time status in every semester of your program. Part-time study is allowed in your final semester only. Dropping below full-time at any other point puts your PGWP eligibility at risk.

Why it's required: This is a rule that bites years later. A single reduced semester taken for good reasons can cost the work permit that the entire plan depends on.

Full-timeEvery semesterExcept the final one, where part-time is allowed.

If you must reduceGet advice firstAsk the school's international office before dropping courses.

Documents you'll need

Enrolment records for every semester
Your study permit's expiry date, and an extension if you need one

Before this step

BlockedCollect the permit at the border

Finishing this unlocks: Graduate and get confirmation of completion