Is Starting a Study Program in Canada Worth It Now?

Starting a study program in Canada can be a strategic move, especially for foreign nationals whose work permits are nearing expiration and who are actively pursuing permanent residence. For many, studying is not just about education but about maintaining legal status, strengthening immigration eligibility, and positioning themselves for long-term settlement in Canada.

If you have already submitted an Expression of Interest or are close to qualifying under a permanent residence pathway, transitioning from a work permit to a study permit may help keep your immigration plans on track. However, this decision comes with legal, financial, and strategic implications that must be carefully evaluated.

This post examines whether starting a study program in Canada is worth it now, how it may impact your PR prospects by 2026, and the key advantages and risks involved.

Why Work Permit Holders Consider Studying In Canada

Canada’s immigration system rewards Canadian education, but it also strictly regulates status transitions. Many foreign workers consider studying when:

Their work permit is expiring with no immediate extension option.
They are waiting for an ITA under Express Entry or a provincial nomination.
They want to improve CRS competitiveness or unlock graduate-focused PNP streams.
They need a lawful way to remain in Canada while advancing their PR strategy.

IRCC allows foreign nationals to hold temporary resident status while remaining candidates for permanent residence, as long as eligibility requirements are met.

Pros Of Transitioning To A Study Program

Enrolling in a Canadian study program can be a strong immigration strategy when approached correctly.

1. Maintaining Legal Status In Canada

If your work authorization is ending, a study permit allows you to remain in Canada lawfully while continuing your PR journey. This is particularly useful if you are already in the Express Entry pool or nominated by a province.

2. CRS Score Improvements Through Canadian Education

Canadian education is rewarded under the Comprehensive Ranking System.

You may gain:

15 CRS points for a one or two-year Canadian post-secondary credential
30 CRS points for a Canadian credential of three years or longer

These points can be decisive in competitive draws.

3. Access To Provincial Graduate Streams

Many Provincial Nominee Programs prioritize graduates of in-province institutions. Completing a Canadian credential can unlock PNP pathways that are not available to foreign-trained candidates.

A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply.

4. Long-Term Career Advantages

Beyond immigration, Canadian credentials improve employability. Employers often prefer local education, and many regulated professions require Canadian training for licensing. Co-op programs, internships, and networking opportunities can also strengthen your long-term career prospects.

Cons And Risks Of Switching From Work To Study

While studying can be beneficial, it is not risk-free.

1. Reduced Work Rights

Upon switching to a study permit, your work hours become limited. International students can work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.

For individuals previously working full-time, this reduction can significantly affect financial stability.

2. Financial Burden

Tuition fees, living costs, and proof-of-funds requirements can be substantial. Studying should not compromise your ability to support yourself legally and credibly in Canada.

3. Limited Use Of Student Work Experience For PR

Work performed while studying does not count toward the minimum Canadian work experience required under the Canadian Experience Class.

In some cases, it may count toward the Federal Skilled Worker Program if it meets specific criteria, but relying solely on student work can delay PR eligibility.

4. PGWP Limitations

If you have already received a Post-Graduation Work Permit from a previous program, you are not eligible for a second PGWP. This is a critical consideration, as the PGWP often provides the Canadian work experience needed to qualify for PR.

Express Entry And PNP Eligibility While Studying

Submitting and maintaining an Express Entry profile is not dependent on your current temporary status. You can remain in the pool as a student, worker, or visitor, provided:

You continue to meet program eligibility requirements.
Your profile does not expire.
Your information remains accurate and updated.

This also applies to many PNP streams, although some provinces require specific work or residency conditions. Always review province-specific rules before changing status. You can receive an ITA or provincial nomination while studying in Canada.

Study Permit Trends And Policy Outlook

Canada’s 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan targets the issuance of approximately 155,000 new study permits.

Most study permit applicants currently require a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter. However, as of January 1, 2026, master’s and doctoral students at designated institutions are exempt from PAL and TAL requirements, reducing administrative hurdles.

Workers transitioning to study permits may find greater consistency in approvals than overseas applicants, provided they meet eligibility and financial requirements.

Key Takeaways

Studying in Canada can help maintain legal status while pursuing PR
Canadian education adds valuable CRS points and improves draw competitiveness.
Graduate-focused PNP streams are a major advantage of studying in Canada.
Work hours are limited under a study permit, which can impact income.
Student work does not count toward CEC eligibility.
PGWP eligibility must be carefully assessed before switching
Studying is most effective when aligned with a clear PR strategy.

Starting a study program in Canada can be worth it if your work permit is expiring and your immigration plan is already in motion. Canadian education can strengthen your CRS score, unlock provincial nominations, and provide long-term career benefits. However, the transition must be approached strategically, with careful attention to finances, work limitations, and post-graduation options.