A student on a 1-year study permit (ending April 2023) was deciding whether to enroll in a second post-grad year. Combined with their spouse's Canadian work experience, their CRS score would hit 476 by September 2023 (after finishing the current 1-year program), and they asked whether that score was strong enough to rely on or too risky.
What the thread suggested:- A shorter program can still qualify for a full 3-year PGWP. One member pointed out that even an 8-month program can be enough to secure a 3-year PGWP (rather than needing a full additional year), which matters if the goal is maximizing post-graduation work time without unnecessarily extending studies.
- CRS cut-offs have been trending higher and processing times have lengthened, so a score in the high-400s that looks sufficient today may not clear future draws — the thread cautioned against assuming your current CRS math will still work when you actually reach eligibility.
- Spousal open work permits for a study-permit holder's partner are possible, though the exact process depends on the primary applicant's program and permit type — confirm eligibility for a spouse's open work permit early rather than assuming it's automatic.
Overall takeaway: don't rely on a single projected CRS number months in advance — factor in rising cut-offs and processing delays, and consider whether a shorter program can achieve the same 3-year PGWP outcome as a longer one.