Will a PG Diploma in Canada Impact Your Express Entry Application?
Are you considering pursuing a Post Graduate (PG) Diploma in Canada and wondering how it might influence your Canadian Express Entry program? In this article, we’ll explore the connection between a PG Diploma and your CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score, shedding light on whether it can provide a strategic advantage in your application.
What is a PG Diploma?
A Post Graduate (PG) Diploma in Canada is a specialized educational program typically pursued after obtaining an undergraduate degree. These programs are designed to provide advanced training and skillsets in specific fields, enhancing your employability and knowledge. Popular PG Diploma programs in Canada include engineering, business, technology, healthcare, and humanities.
PG Diploma and Work Permit
Attending a PG Diploma program in Canada will grant you the opportunity to apply for a Work Permit for a defined period, typically ranging from 18 months to 2 years, depending on the specific program. This Work Permit will allow you to work in Canada during your studies, provided that you meet the eligibility criteria. The key benefit here is that working in Canada during this period can contribute significantly to your Canadian work experience, a crucial factor in gaining a competitive edge in the Express Entry system.
Boosting Your CRS Score
Once you gain the necessary Canadian work experience through your Work Permit, it can substantially enhance your CRS score, which is used to rank your application within the Express Entry system. The CRS score includes factors such as your age, education, language proficiency (IELTS or CELPIP), skills, and work experience. The Canadian work experience you acquire while on a Work Permit can offer substantial points in the CRS system, potentially moving your application higher in the queue.
PG Diploma as an Additional Education Element
It’s worth noting that in the context of education evaluations, a PG Diploma is treated more like an additional graduation from a Canadian educational institution rather than a master’s degree. This means it generally does not add additional CRS points. However, it still provides valuable work experience and the opportunity to integrate into the Canadian job market, which can indirectly benefit your application. Furthermore, the skills and knowledge gained from a PG Diploma can make you more attractive to potential employers, which can further enhance your CRS score through potential job offers and other work-related factors.
For instance, if you acquire Canadian work experience that aligns with the skilled trades or high-demand job sectors, it can significantly boost your CRS score. Additionally, employers who offer job opportunities to you from your PG Diploma program may contribute positively to your CRS score through factors like job offers in your final CRS assessment.
Conclusion
In summary, while a PG Diploma in Canada may not directly add to your CRS score (since it is treated as additional education rather than an advanced degree), the experience gained from working and the knowledge acquired can indirectly contribute to a higher CRS score through the valuable work experience it generates. To maximize your chances in the Express Entry program, it is advisable to leverage this time to build strong work experience, skills, and network within your field of study.
For more detailed information, visit the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or consult with a licensed immigration consultant.