International graduates applying through Express Entry should not combine work completed during studies with post-graduation employment under a single work experience entry.

When entering work history, the system asks whether the applicant was studying at the same time. If the answer is yes, the experience does not earn Comprehensive Ranking System points. If the answer is no, this creates a risk of misrepresentation, since the applicant was in fact enrolled as a student during that period.

To avoid errors, work experience must be split into two separate periods. Employment performed while studying should be listed separately and not claimed for points. Only eligible work experience should be claimed, which generally begins after applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

Work completed during studies should later be disclosed in the personal history section after receiving an Invitation to Apply. This approach ensures accurate disclosure while protecting the application from refusals or misrepresentation concerns.