Canada’s PGWP Shake-Up: Scholarships That Align With New In-Demand Programs

Thinking about studying in Canada but worried about the recent changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)? You’re definitely not the only one.

In June 2025, Canada announced major updates to the PGWP—adding 119 new eligible programs and removing 178 others. This move is all about making sure international students graduate with skills that Canada’s job market actually needs.

So what does this mean for you? It means if you’re smart about the program you choose and the scholarships you apply for, you can study, save money, and boost your chances of staying in Canada after graduation.

Here’s how to make it work.

Wait… What Exactly Changed with the PGWP?

The PGWP is what allows international students to stay and work in Canada after finishing their studies. It’s often the first step toward Permanent Residency (PR).

But here’s the news:

• Canada’s government is now only granting PGWPs to students in “in-demand” programs.

• If your program is on the new list, you can still get a work permit.

• If it’s not, you might finish your degree but have to leave sooner than you planned.

This is Canada’s way of focusing on industries where they actually need workers—like healthcare, engineering, tech, construction, and green energy.

So… How Do Scholarships Fit Into This?

Here’s the smart part: Many scholarships in Canada are designed for exactly the same in-demand fields that now align with the new PGWP rules.

That means if you pick the right program and scholarship combo, you’ll: ✅ Save money while you study ✅ Boost your chances of getting work after graduation ✅ Possibly make your PR process smoother later on

Top Scholarships for In-Demand Programs (That Also Help With PGWP)

Here are some real scholarships connected to the types of programs that are now PGWP-friendly:

🎓 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (STEM, Health, Social Sciences)

• Value: $50,000 CAD/year for PhD students

• Good for: Science, engineering, health, environment, public policy

• Why it matters: These fields are still high-demand in Canada—and Vanier is one of the most prestigious awards out there.

🛠 Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

• Value: Up to $15,000 CAD/year

• Good for: Tech, AI, renewable energy, engineering, life sciences

• Why it matters: Many of the newly eligible PGWP programs are right in Ontario’s tech and healthcare sectors.

Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Scholarships

• Value: Varies; can cover grad school and research funding

• Good for: Public health, nursing, mental health, biotech

• Why it matters: Healthcare and wellness fields remain top-priority in Canada’s immigration and labor plans.

🌍 Green Energy & Sustainability Scholarships

• Value: Varies (some up to full tuition)

• Good for: Environmental science, sustainability, green tech

Why it matters: Canada is actively growing its green economy—and that means jobs and pathways for graduates.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s PGWP changes might seem stressful, but they’re actually an opportunity—if you plan smart.

By choosing an in-demand program and pairing it with the right scholarship, you can: ✔ Study in Canada ✔ Graduate with real job prospects ✔ Stay longer (if that’s your goal)

👉 Want help finding the best scholarships for your dream program? Check out our next post for a step-by-step guide.

Scholarships That Align With New In-Demand Program