So, you’ve finished your degree in Canada. Maybe you’re walking out of convocation, diploma in hand, thinking, “Great, now what?” You’re not alone — this is exactly what most international students ask themselves. And honestly, it can feel a bit intimidating. But here’s the good news: there’s a clear route if you know what you’re doing — the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

I like to think of it like climbing a ladder. Your study permit gets you on the first rung, your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lets you climb higher, and your Canadian work experience is what finally gets you to the top — permanent residence.

Why CEC Makes Sense for Graduates

Here’s the thing: CEC doesn’t just care about your degree. It cares about your actual experience in Canada. That’s why it’s perfect for students who have been studying and working here.

To qualify, you need:

•  At least 12 months of skilled Canadian work experience (full-time or part-time equivalent).
•  Jobs in NOC 0, A, or B — that’s managerial, professional, or technical/trade positions.
• Proof of English or French proficiency

Basically, if you’ve been working legally in Canada while on a PGWP, you’re already halfway there.

Step 1: From Study Permit to PGWP

After graduation, the Post-Graduation Work Permit is your ticket to staying in Canada. Depending on your program, it can last up to three years. This is the time when you gain the skilled Canadian experience that counts toward PR.

Let me give you an example:
Neha finished her two-year master’s in Toronto. She applied for a three-year PGWP and landed a full-time marketing job. By the end of the first year, she already had most of the experience she needed for CEC — and it gave her a real sense of direction.

Here’s a small tip: don’t just take any job. Try to pick roles where you can learn and grow, because those skills matter when immigration officers review your application.

Step 2: Landing the Right Job

Not all work counts. Only NOC 0, A, or B roles qualify:   

• NOC 0: Managerial  
• NOC A: Professional   
• NOC B: Skilled trades/technical

A few things I’ve noticed over the years:

• Keep every document — contracts, payslips, and reference letters. You’ll need them.
• Part-time work is okay as long as it adds up to 12 months full-time equivalent. 
• Related-field jobs can help your CRS score, but honestly, even other skilled jobs count.

Step 3: Completing 12 Months of Canadian Experience

CEC requires 12 months of skilled work, which doesn’t have to be one single job. Hours can be accumulated across different roles.

Some practical advice:

• Always maintain legal status — don’t let your work permit lapse.  
• Keep your taxes in order — T4 slips are proof.  
• Track your responsibilities. It sounds tedious, but it’s worth it.

And here’s something most guides won’t tell you: this isn’t just about immigration. This is the time to build skills, network, and get Canadian experience that actually matters for your career.

Step 4: Language Skills

Even if you studied in English or French, official language test results are often required:

• NOC 0/A: CLB 7 minimum  
• NOC B: CLB 5 minimum

One small tip: improving your score even slightly can make a noticeable difference in CRS points. It’s worth it.

Step 5: Express Entry & PR

Once you have the work experience and language scores, create your Express Entry profile. CRS points consider:

• Age  
• Education 
• Canadian work experience
• Language ability         

If your profile scores well, you’ll get an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Submit your PR application, and if all goes well, you could have permanent residence in around six months.

Why Graduates Should Consider CEC

• Processing is usually faster than other streams.
• Canadian experience counts — it’s recognized by both employers and immigration authorities.
• No job offer needed if you already have the required experience.

Insider Tips

1. Start planning early — know which jobs count before graduation.
2. Document everything — payslips, contracts, letters.   
3. Maintain your legal status — gaps in work authorization can complicate things.   
4. Improve language scores — small gains help CRS points.   
5. Stay informed — immigration rules change frequently.

Final Thoughts

It’s not always straightforward, but moving from study permit → PGWP → CEC → PR is doable. Plan carefully, pick the right job, keep all documentation, and don’t ignore language scores. With persistence, your Canadian education and work experience can turn into permanent residence by 2025.