A software engineer in Poland with an 18-year gap since their last formal studies asked which colleges would accept such a long study gap for a study permit application, given a low CRS score.
What the group shared:- Continuous, relevant work experience across the gap period matters — it can help justify a long study gap in your application.
- One respondent mentioned UCW (University Canada West) in Vancouver as an example, noting their spouse was admitted with a 10-year study gap.
Practical takeaway:- If you have a long study gap, be ready to demonstrate consistent, relevant work experience covering that period as part of your study plan/SOP.
- Some schools are more flexible with long study gaps than others — research individual program admission policies rather than assuming all schools apply the same standard.
- A longer gap (like 18 years) is a bigger ask than examples cited (like 10 years), so expect to build a stronger supporting case.