Eligibility change for candidates with one-year college graduate certificates

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has recently announced significant changes to its Employer Job Offer: International Student stream, broadening the scope of eligibility for international students. This modification particularly affects those who have completed a one-year college graduate certificate in Ontario.

Key Changes in Eligibility Criteria

Before January 1, 2024:

The OINP’s International Student stream had a narrow focus. Eligibility was confined to candidates who completed a one-year certificate from an eligible Ontario college, provided the program demanded a degree as an admission prerequisite.

Effective January 1, 2024:

• The updated eligibility criteria have been liberalized to include a wider range of candidates. Now, any international student who has completed a one-year program at an Ontario college, leading to an Ontario College Graduate Certificate, can qualify.
• This amendment considerably increases the number of certificate programs that are eligible for the OINP.

Impact and Implementation

• The change officially came into effect on January 1, 2024.
• It's important to note that this change does not affect individuals who submitted their application before this date.

Summary of Changes

Aligning with the New Changes

• To align with these changes, the Expression of Interest (EOI) scoring factors for additional Canadian educational credentials and the highest educational credential have been revised.
• Candidates who are existing registrants and have not yet been invited to apply should review their EOI in light of these changes.
• Furthermore, revisions have been made to the list of eligible educational institutions for this stream.

These changes represent a significant step in making Ontario's education and immigration pathways more inclusive and accessible, thereby attracting a diverse range of international talent.