Public Private Partnership Colleges: PGWP Restriction Starting September 1, 2024

As of September 1, 2024, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) will no longer be available to students graduating from Public Private Partnership Colleges or institutions operating under a curriculum licensing arrangement.

What Are Public Private Partnership Colleges?

Also known as Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), these colleges are private institutions that partner with public colleges to use the public college’s curriculum under a licensing agreement. This allows private colleges to enroll international students while leveraging the credibility of a public college’s programs.

How the Model Works:

In the Public-Private Partnership colleges model, public colleges benefit by receiving a portion of the tuition fees generated from students enrolled at their partner private colleges. This revenue-sharing arrangement allows public institutions to support their programs while leveraging private sector resources.

Private colleges, in turn, earn significantly higher tuition revenue from international students compared to local students. By partnering with public colleges, private institutions can offer programs under a recognized public curriculum, enhancing their credibility and attracting a larger pool of applicants.

International students also gain advantages in this model. They often have access to programs that might not otherwise be available and benefit from studying in larger urban centers, which provide better infrastructure, services, and networking opportunities. Additionally, they can leverage the curriculum and accreditation of the public college, improving the quality and recognition of their education.

Overall, the PPP model creates a symbiotic relationship: public colleges generate additional revenue, private colleges expand their reach and profits, and international students gain access to valuable educational opportunities in Canada’s major cities.

However, several challenges exist within the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) college model, particularly regarding the quality of education provided. Government officials have raised concerns that some private colleges may prioritize profit over student outcomes, potentially compromising academic standards. The Minister of Immigration has been particularly critical, comparing certain private institutions to “massage parlors in strip malls,” suggesting that students at these colleges may end up working or pursuing unrelated activities rather than fully engaging in their studies.

These concerns highlight the need for greater oversight and accountability in the PPP model. While some students may benefit from access to programs in larger cities, there is a risk that not all institutions maintain consistent teaching quality, proper student support, or genuine pathways to post-graduation work permits. Prospective international students must carefully evaluate the reputation, curriculum, and outcomes of both the public and private partners before enrolling.

Ultimately, while the PPP model provides opportunities, it also introduces risks that can affect educational value, career prospects, and immigration outcomes for students. Awareness of these challenges is essential for making informed decisions when considering enrollment in Public Private Partnership Colleges.

Examples of Public Private Partnership Colleges in Ontario

• St. Lawrence College partners with Alpha College of Business and Technology.

• Lambton College partners with Queen’s College, a private institution in Mississauga.

Currently, these and other PPP colleges are eligible for PGWP. But from September 1, 2024, graduates of such public-private partnership programs will no longer be able to apply for a PGWP, affecting work opportunities and immigration planning for international students.

Please note, this is a tentative list. Please wait for official communication from IRCC before making any decision.