If you’ve ever felt like your job applications were disappearing into a black hole, you’re not alone. The struggle of applying to countless positions and dealing with radio silence is so real. But the good news is that starting January 1, 2026, Ontario is implementing new job posting requirements in hopes of making the hiring process more transparent, fair, and therefore student friendly.
What’s Changing?
Pay Transparency
Employers with 25 or more employees will now be required to disclose the expected compensation or compensation range in publicly advertised job postings. That means no more guesswork about whether a position is worth your time, or your skills.
Ban on “Canadian Experience” Requirements
Job postings can no longer mandate Canadian work experience. This change removes a common barrier for newcomers and international students, and ensures hiring decisions are focused on relevant skills and qualifications, instead of prior local experience.
AI Disclosure in Hiring
Employers must disclose if they’re using AI to screen, assess, or select applicants in publicly advertised job postings. This ensures transparency in the hiring process and helps candidates understand how their applications are being evaluated (and how to tailor them.)
Clarification of Vacancy Status
Employers must include a statement in the publicly advertised job posting informing applicants whether the posting is for an existing vacancy. This helps candidates determine if the position is currently available, if it’s a fake listing, or if the employer has only posted to see what the applicant pool looks like.
Interview Outcome Notification
Employers must inform applicants whether a hiring decision has been made for the position within 45 days after the date of the applicant’s last interview. This requirement will hopefully reduce the common experience of endless waiting or guessing if you got the job.
What does this mean for students/new grads?
Clearer Expectations: Transparent salaries and requirements help you decide if a role is worth applying for, saving you both time and energy.
More Fair Opportunities: No more being penalized for not having Canadian experience. Your skills and education finally get the spotlight they deserve.
Reduced Ghosting: Knowing whether a role is available and getting timely interview feedback means fewer dead ends and less anxiety.
More Control Over Your Job Search: Disclosure of AI usage and clear job details allows you to create smarter applications and target roles that actually fit you.
Final Thoughts
Essentially, these changes are exactly what we’re been hoping for: fairness, clarity and respect. As students and new grads, we often face unique challenges in the job search process. These new requirements will hopefully address some of those challenges and make the entire process more equitable and a little less frustrating.
As you prepare for your job search in 2026, know the landscape is changing for the better. The requirements are more in our favour than ever before (and it's about time.)