Can I apply for a PGWP with a graduation letter or do I need my official transcript?

IRCC accepts both an official completion letter from your institution and official transcripts as proof of graduation for PGWP purposes. The key is that the document must be official — issued by the school — and must confirm that you have met all program requirements for graduation. An unofficial transcript, a student portal screenshot, or a preliminary grade report will not suffice.

The 180-day clock for applying for the PGWP starts from the date you receive the earliest official proof of program completion — whether that is the letter or the transcript, whichever comes first. If your school issues a completion letter before your transcripts are ready, the 180 days starts from the letter date. Waiting for transcripts when you already have a completion letter means you may be shortening your application window without realizing it.

Schools vary in how quickly they issue these documents after convocation. Know which document your school provides first and be prepared to apply as soon as you receive it.