As of November 1, 2024, submitting a language assessment result has become a mandatory requirement for PGWP applications.
The minimum required scores are:

• CLB 5 for any post-graduate certificate/diploma program
• CLB 7 for Master’s programs

Many students were unaware of this change because there was no dedicated upload field for the language test. As a result, many applicants forgot to attach their test results or uploaded them under the “Other Documents” section.

Case 1: Application Rejected Within 180 Days of Program Completion

If your PGWP application was rejected within 180 days of completing your program, this is the best-case scenario.
You can reapply, include your language test result, and you will most likely get your work permit approved.

Case 2: Application Rejected After 180 Days

This situation is more complicated.

1. You can submit a reconsideration request through a web form, attach your language test score, and provide an explanatory letter. However:

• There is no set processing time for reconsideration requests.
• Visa officers are not obligated to reassess the application.
• The decision is entirely at the discretion of the visa officer.

2. PGWP rule requiring you to apply within 180 days of program completion, your re-application may be rejected based on this criterion alone. Due to the initial application process time.

What To Do If You Fall Under Case 2

1. Stop working immediately.
2. Submit a reconsideration request on your first application through the IRCC webform. Include:
   • Your language test score
   • A clear explanation letter
3. Restore your status as a student within 90 days of the initial rejection
4. Reapply for the PGWP, attach a strong explanation letter, and consider consulting an immigration professional for guidance.

After this, all you can do is wait. The final outcome depends entirely on the visa officer, who has the authority to refuse based on the 180-day requirement.

Important Note

Please do not be discouraged. Many international students are facing the same issue.
We have already seen successful reconsiderations, though we also have a case where reapplication was denied.

We are still in the initial phase of this issue, and we expect to have more information in the near future.

How to Increase Your Chances

1. Contact your local MP, explain your situation, and request their help in raising this issue.
2. Reach out to media outlets or reporters who may be willing to cover the problem. Raising awareness is essential.

We also have Reddit and Discord groups where affected students are working together toward a common solution.
I’ll share the links to those groups soon.

In the meantime, here is the petition related to this issue (currently with almost 400 signatures):
Petition: https://c.org/nbG52YnFyz

You can also comment on this post if you want to be added manually to the group.

Thank you for your support. Stay strong, we’re all in this together.