Pgwp Part-time semester
From Refusal to Approval – My PGWP Journey 🇨🇦
I wanted to share my journey in case it helps someone going through a similar situation.
🔹 January 2022 – Started my 2-year Computer Systems Technician – Network Systems program at Mohawk College
🔹 Spring 2022 – Faced academic challenges and was placed on compulsory withdrawal
🔹 Fall 2022 – Returned to studies, but due to a prerequisite requirement, I could only take 1 course (part-time semester)
🔹 2023–2025 – Continued full-time studies and successfully completed my program
🔹 April 2025 – Graduated 🎓
🔻 PGWP Refusal
After applying for my Post-Graduation Work Permit, I received a refusal due to not maintaining full-time status during Fall 2022. It was a very stressful moment as everything was at stake.
🔹 March 2026 – Received refusal from IRCC
Instead of giving up, I decided to take action.
🔹 April 2026 – Submitted reconsideration request
With the help of a lawyer, I:
- Prepared a detailed Letter of Explanation
- Included legal references
- Got an official support letter from Mohawk College explaining the prerequisite situation
- Added a statutory declaration
🔹 May 2026 – Application reopened
IRCC reviewed the new documents and decided to reopen my case based on the new evidence. This was a major turning point.
🔹 Mid-May 2026 – PGWP APPROVED ✅
I received my work permit valid until 2029.
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💡 Key Lessons:
- Don’t panic after a refusal — understand the reason
- A strong LOE + proper documentation can make a big difference
- College support letters are extremely valuable
- Reconsideration is possible if your case is genuine
- Patience is everything during the process
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I know how stressful this journey can be as an international student. If you’re going through something similar, stay calm, build your case properly, and don’t lose hope.
Good things can still happen.
Feel free to reach out if you have questions 🙌