Changes to Canada’s International Student Policies

Your Guide to Study, Work, and Succeed in Canada

The Government of Canada has introduced new policies as part of a national plan to develop a recognized framework to enhance support for international students.

Canada remains a top choice for students worldwide, and Centennial College is your trusted guide to a successful future. Our dedicated recruitment, admissions, and student services teams are ready to support your transition to Canada. You can rely on our expert advice and step-by-step guidance to help make the most of your academic and career journey in Canada!

What’s New and Important:

  • New Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Criteria: If you apply for a study permit after November 1, 2024, your PGWP eligibility will depend on your program of study. Students who applied for a study permit before this date remain eligible for the PGWP across all of Centennial’s full-time programs, regardless of field of study.
  • PGWP-Aligned Programs: Centennial offers a variety of programs that align with Canada’s priority labour market categories, giving you a strong foundation for future employment. Choose from Centennial’s PGWP-Aligned Programs across certificate, diploma, advanced diploma, degree, and graduate certificate options.
  • Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): International students can apply to most programs at Centennial College and may qualify for a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) to study in Ontario. At the study permit application stage, eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit is not a requirement. IRCC will approve study permits for all full-time programs at Centennial, including those not PGWP-eligible, provided applicants meet other general requirements.

Career-Focused Learning and Industry Experience

  • As a leading public college in Ontario and a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), Centennial College can support you on the path to studying and working in Canada.
  • Centennial combines hands-on learning in labs, classrooms, and studios with practical projects and assessments. Many programs qualify graduates for Canadian professional designations! Our #1 international graduate employment rate in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) shows our strength in career preparation (2022-2023 KPI).
  • Work-Integrated Learning (WIL): Centennial’s WIL opportunities, such as co-ops, internships, placements, and capstone projects, provide valuable industry experience. As one of Canada’s top research colleges, we’re proud to be ranked #1 for offering paid internships in applied research—leading the way for three years running!
  • Study permit holders can work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week during classes and full-time during scheduled breaks upon meeting general conditions. Our Career Services and Cooperative Education team supports students with job search, employment advising, and job fairs on-campus.

Pathways to Employment and Permanent Residency

  • Centennial offers 50 PGWP-aligned programs across Canada’s priority job sectors, helping international students make informed choices and confidently pursue their career goals. Stay tuned for updates, as we expect to confirm more programs soon!
  • Our degree pathways combine hands-on learning at Centennial with the opportunity to earn a university degree, ensuring PGWP eligibility across all program areas.
  • Even if your program is not PGWP-eligible, you may still qualify for other types of Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) exempt work permits (e.g., Francophone Mobility, International Experience Canada (IEC) working holiday) or employer-specific work permits). International students can pursue permanent residency (PR) pathways through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Employer Job Offer International Student Stream, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Worker Program.
  • With BorderPass, Centennial’s international students benefit from expert immigration support for study permit and work permit applications, enhancing pathways to post-graduation employment and potential Permanent Residence (PR).

Disclaimer: Work permits and permanent residency are granted solely at the discretion of IRCC and the Government of Canada. Centennial College’s role is to deliver a top-tier education that prepares graduates for success in Canada’s labour market.

Ready to Apply?

We are accepting applications for January, May, and September 2025. Eligible students will receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) certifying their status with the province.

Welcome to Centennial College!

If you're considering a program or have received an offer from Centennial, we encourage you to take the next step. Your success is our priority!

We're always happy to answer your questions, so contact our international admissions team for individual assistance.

Learn more about key topics:

General Inquiries

Guidance for Applicants

Information for Current Students