Hi, I just completed a 4 year engineering program here in Canada, with my study permit expiring on 1 August 2022. Unfortunately, I studied part time in the middle because my academic advisor suggested it to me due to my medical issues at the time, but she didn't know the rules about PGWPs back then. I did not know these rules either, otherwise I would have let myself fail those courses instead of landing in this situation
I am going to try to apply for a PGWP next week with medical docs, but judging from the posts here it looks like I still have a high chance of being rejected. After spending over $300,000 on my bachelor's degree and basically going into debt, it is really important for me to have a backup option in case my PGWP gets refused, so that my degree does not go to waste
I am so worried about the whole thing that I haven't even been able to eat or sleep for weeks now. I also have a fiance here (he is also a student obtaining a PGWP), and I cannot even imagine having to potentially leave Canada and never see him again because of this problem Life feels not worth living right now. If anyone has any advice or pathway ideas on how I could stay, I would really appreciate it. Here are the backup options I have thought of so far:
I am going to try to apply for a PGWP next week with medical docs, but judging from the posts here it looks like I still have a high chance of being rejected. After spending over $300,000 on my bachelor's degree and basically going into debt, it is really important for me to have a backup option in case my PGWP gets refused, so that my degree does not go to waste
I am so worried about the whole thing that I haven't even been able to eat or sleep for weeks now. I also have a fiance here (he is also a student obtaining a PGWP), and I cannot even imagine having to potentially leave Canada and never see him again because of this problem Life feels not worth living right now. If anyone has any advice or pathway ideas on how I could stay, I would really appreciate it. Here are the backup options I have thought of so far:
- Enrolling into a masters degree: I was thinking of getting a 2 year masters degree as a backup option incase my PGWP gets refused. However, September 2022 admissions deadlines for international students have ended. It is likely that if I get into a masters program, it will have to be for January 2023 start. However, I have heard that to get a study permit extension and be "actively pursuing studies," i need less than 150 days gap between programs. Since this is more than 150 days between programs, could I restore status as a visitor and then apply for a brand new study permit for the masters? or is it likely to be refused since I have already held a study permit for the bachelors program?
- PR/express entry or Ontario PNP: I don't know how I would qualify for this because I do not have any Canadian work experience (since my PGWP will likely get refused). I only have my 4 year Canadian bachelors and good IELTS scores. Can I do anything to get a PR or PNP and save myself from leaving?