Q & A: Education Inconsistent with Occupation

CIC News
Published: June 1, 1999

Q. Although I obtained my university education in Chemical Engineering, my subsequent profession was in the field of software engineering. I am now interested in pursuing an application for immigration to Canada in the IT sector. Will my previous education be a problem?

Answer: You would have to be able to satisfy an immigration official that the inconsistency between your training and the NOC requirements for your intended occupation would not negatively affect your employability in Canada. This could be accomplished by demonstrating sufficient related curriculum in the program you did study in, or credible job offers in Canada.

[Comment: In some cases of professions in the Information Technology sector, a directly relevant education is not mandatory according to the NOC. This may be applicable in the above circumstance if the field of IT in which the education is obtained is directly relevant. As a general rule, however, applicants should ensure compliance with NOC requirements. Failure to do so can result in refusal at the paper screening stage.]

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Top Stories
Statistics Canada releases new data on the educational achievements of racialized immigrants
Canada invites 1,400 candidates in Express Entry draw for French proficiency
What if I am not invited to apply in an Express Entry draw?
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Express Entry
Canada invites 1,400 candidates in Express Entry draw for French proficiency
More candidates have been invited in the latest Express Entry draw.
What if I am not invited to apply in an Express Entry draw?
A man looking seriously at a laptop while thinking about something.
How an ECA can help you immigrate to Canada
A young lady joyfully reviewing her documents at a table.
Canada invites candidates in Express Entry draw for STEM occupations
IRCC has issued ITAs to Express Entry candidates in the latest round of invitations.
Link copied to clipboard