The Canadian immigration system has become more competitive in 2024 and 2025, especially within the Express Entry pool. This has left many wondering: Is the study-work-immigrate path still effective for PR?

The answer is yes. Canadian education continues to give applicants a meaningful edge when applying for PR, even in today’s challenging landscape.

As competition rises for Express Entry invitations and provincial nominations, the advantages of having studied in Canada are even more valuable. A Canadian education not only adds points but also opens doors to work experience, networking, and provincial programs.

Benefits Of Studying In Canada For Immigration

Benefit Of Canadian Post-Secondary Education How It Helps
Additional CRS Points for study in Canada The CRS awards up to 30 additional points to those who have completed their post-secondary education in Canada.
CRS points for skill transferability Canadian work experience is also recognized in the skill transferability section of the CRS, allowing international students to gain up to 100 CRS points.
Access to Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Bridging Open Work Permit Allows graduates to gain Canadian work experience, which helps them qualify for Canadian Experience Class draws.
Networking opportunities with employers Studying in Canada gives international students increased opportunity to network and connect with employers through job fairs, co-op programs, and local community organizations.
Ability to qualify for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) international graduate streams Many provinces have immigration streams specifically for international student graduates.
Increased value as job candidate Some employers value Canadian education and Canadian work experience, giving international students in Canada an edge in a competitive job market.

Why The Study-Work-Immigrate Path Still Works?

Extra CRS Points For Canadian Education

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) rewards candidates with Canadian post-secondary credentials. Applicants receive:

  • 15 points for a program lasting one to two years
  • 30 points for a program lasting three years or more

For many applicants, these additional points can make the difference between receiving an ITA or falling short of the cutoff.

PGWP And Bridging Open Work Permit Opportunities

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a huge advantage for international students. Depending on the program length, it can be issued for up to three years and allows graduates to work for nearly any employer.

This work experience is vital for building a Canadian resume and qualifying under the Canadian Experience Class pathway.

Once a PR application is submitted and an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) is issued, many graduates can also apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). This ensures they can legally continue working while waiting for their PR decision.

Boost Through Skill Transferability

The CRS includes a section for skill transferability, which awards up to 100 points based on combinations of language proficiency, education, and work experience.

Canadian work experience plus strong language scores can significantly raise an applicant’s ranking. For international students, this is often one of the most impactful advantages.

Early Access To Employers

International students in Canada can typically work up to 24 hours per week while studying and full-time during scheduled breaks.

This early access to the labor market gives students a chance to connect with employers, gain references, and build a local resume. Many universities also host career fairs, co-op placements, and networking events that help students secure employment opportunities post-graduation.

PNP Pathways For International Graduates

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) remain an important route to PR. Many provinces offer nomination streams specifically for international graduates.

For instance, Ontario’s Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream allows graduates with full-time skilled job offers to be nominated for PR. Similar programs exist in British Columbia, Manitoba, and other provinces.

Employer Preference For Canadian Credentials

Employers often prefer candidates with Canadian qualifications and work experience, since they are already familiar with local standards and workplace culture. For many international students, this preference helps them secure long-term employment, which is a major asset when applying for PR.

Considering PR Through Express Entry?

If you’re exploring immigration through Express Entry, your first step should be calculating your CRS score. This will help you understand your competitiveness and whether your profile matches recent cutoff scores.

If your score isn’t high enough, you can consider strategies such as:

  • Improving language test results
  • Completing a longer program in Canada
  • Gaining additional Canadian work experience
  • Exploring PNP options in provinces aligned with your career goals

Final Thoughts

While Express Entry has become more competitive in 2024 and 2025, studying in Canada continues to provide a strong pathway to permanent residency. Thus, Canadian education adds valuable CRS points, opens the door to work permits, and gives candidates a clear advantage with employers and provincial nomination programs.

CWRVisa, a Canadian immigration leader, promises excellence and tailored pathways for your Canadian journey. Get in touch with us at CWRVisa.ca.