Working In Canada After Graduation: Taking the CELPIP for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

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CELPIP
Published: June 12, 2025

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If you are a recent graduate in Canada, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can serve as an immigration pathway for those pursuing permanent residency. A key requirement of the permit is proof of your English language proficiency, for which the CELPIP Test is the sole Canadian option.

With testing locations available across Canada and internationally, along with the convenience of taking all test sections at the same time, the CELPIP test offers the most reliable option for a fast and accurate English proficiency score officially designated by IRCC for your PGWP application.

Book a CELPIP Test Date

But what other key elements should you keep in mind as you prepare for the next steps to live and work in Canada?

PGWP Updates

In a recent update to the PGWP program, international graduates from college bachelor’s programs will no longer need to meet field of study requirements to be eligible for their permit. Before this change, international graduates from university bachelor’s programs were exempt from field of study requirements, while graduates of college bachelor's programs were not. This has significantly levelled the playing field for PGWP applications and enabled many graduates to streamline their applications.

Language Requirements

Graduates who applied for a PGWP after November 1, 2024 must meet new language proficiency requirements to be eligible for this work permit. Learn more about the requirements for each level of study, here.

Preparation Resources for CELPIP

Meeting Your Score Goals

Applying for permits and programs with your CELPIP score can be competitive. We are here to help you perform at your best and achieve the score you need for your journey to work and live in Canada. To support our test takers, we offer a library of free preparation materials that includes:

Book a CELPIP Test Date

If you're interested in registering for the CELPIP Test and using a CELPIP score as part of your PGWP application, please visit us online: www.celpip.ca

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