It is important to note that work experience obtained before successfully completing your studies and applying for a Post-Graduate Work Permit （PGWP) does not count, even if the position was paid. 

The Canadian Experience Class is an immigration program specifically designed for individuals with at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada to apply for permanent residence. This program targets individuals who have gained Canadian work experience through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Experience Canada program.  Consequently, any work experience obtained while being a full-time student, including co-op work terms, part-time jobs during studies, or even summer employment, does not meet the minimum requirements for the CEC program. 

It is crucial to understand that while your work experience as an international student may not fulfill the CEC program’s requirements, it can still be valuable for future career opportunities or other immigration streams in Canada. 

Please feel free to contact or follow EGI for further updates and information.