Canada has recently announced that it will be extending the post-graduation work permits (PGWP) for international students studying in master’s programs that are less than two years long. Previously, the length of a PGWP was determined by the length of the study program, but now master’s students will be eligible for a three-year work permit.
In order to be eligible for a PGWP, international students must have completed studies in an academic, vocational, or professional training program that is at least eight months long at an eligible DLI. They must have studied in a program that led to a degree, diploma, or certificate and held full-time student status during every academic session of the program. Additionally, they must have received a transcript and official letter confirming completion of their program from the DLI.
PGWPs issued to students in programs other than master’s level will still align with the program’s duration, capped at three years. Students in programs at eligible DLIs that are at least two years long will qualify for an extended three-year PGWP. The regulations regarding spousal work permits for international students at the undergraduate level are also being revised, with only spouses of students at the master’s and doctoral levels being eligible for a spousal work permit.
These changes will not affect spousal open work permits for the spouses or conjugal partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
History of the scholarship
The history of the scholarship program dates back to its inception in the late 19th century. Initially, scholarships were reserved for individuals with exceptional academic abilities or those in financial need. Over time, the criteria for scholarships has evolved to encompass a wider range of criteria, including merit, leadership, community service, and specific fields of study. Today, scholarships are seen as a valuable investment in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. As scholarship programs continue to evolve, they play a crucial role in expanding access to education and fostering talent development.
Eligibility Criteria of the Scholarship
Criteria for Scholarship Eligibility
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Enrolled in an academic, vocational, or professional training program at a designated learning institution (DLI) for a minimum of eight months.
2. Completed a program leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
3. Maintained full-time student status during each academic session of the program. Exceptions may apply.
4. Obtained official documentation from the DLI confirming program completion, including a transcript and letter of completion.
5. Graduated from a public post-secondary institution, private post-secondary school in Quebec, or private school authorized to award degrees under provincial law. The institution must be a designated learning institution.
Scholarship Duration Details:
- Post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) for students in programs other than master’s level will align with the program's duration, up to a maximum of three years.
- Students in programs at least two years long from designated learning institutions are eligible for a three-year extended PGWP.
- Regulations for spousal work permits for international students at the undergraduate level will be revised with only spouses of master’s and doctoral level students eligible.
- Spouses or conjugal partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents remain eligible for spousal work permits.
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Frequently asked questions about the scholarship
Q: What programs are eligible for the scholarship?
A: Academic, vocational, or professional training programs at designated learning institutions (DLIs) qualify for the scholarship. The program must be at least eight months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Q: Can I apply for the scholarship if I am enrolled in a program that is less than two years long?
A: Yes, international students studying in master’s programs that are less than two years long are eligible for a three-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP) under the revised criteria.
Q: Are there any exceptions for maintaining full-time student status during the program?
A: Certain exceptions may apply. Applicants should provide documentation to support any exceptions related to their full-time student status.
Q: Will the scholarship duration be adjusted based on the program length?
A: Yes, the duration of the scholarship aligns with the length of the program, with a maximum of three years for programs at the master’s level and an extended three-year PGWP for programs at least two years long from designated learning institutions.
Q: Can the spouse of an international student also apply for a work permit through the scholarship program?
A: Spousal work permits will be revised, and only spouses of students at the master’s and doctoral levels will be eligible for a spousal work permit.
These answers are based on the provided information and may be subject to change based on official guidelines and regulations.
Benefits of the scholarship
Scholarships offer numerous benefits to students, including financial support, academic recognition, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. By providing financial assistance, scholarships can help offset the high costs of education, making it more accessible for students from all backgrounds. Additionally, receiving a scholarship can serve as a form of academic recognition, highlighting a student's achievements and potential. Moreover, scholarships often come with networking opportunities and mentorship programs, which can help students establish valuable connections and guidance for future endeavors. Overall, scholarships play a crucial role in promoting academic excellence, supporting students in achieving their goals, and shaping their future success.CLICK HERE TO APPLY