The Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) set out guidelines that enable international students to pursue educational opportunities in Canada. A critical part of studying in Canada as an international student is holding a valid study permit. The issuance of study permits is limited to applicants who have been accepted to undertake a program of study at an educational institution designated to host international students (i.e., a designated learning institution [DLI]).

However, circumstances may lead students to consider transferring from one Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to another after submitting a study permit application or arriving in Canada. This article explores what a DLI means and how students can change their DLI before coming to Canada while in Canada.

 

Understanding the Role of DLIs in Study Permits

A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school, college, university, or other educational institution authorized by the provincial or territorial government to host international students and has entered into an agreement or arrangement with the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in order to designate specific educational institutions; (a list of DLIs at the post-secondary level is available on the IRCC website)

 

Changing DLIs before Receiving a Study Permit

If a student decides to change their DLI after submitting their study permit application, but before the permit is issued, they must update their application through the appropriate channels. According to IRCC guidelines, students must inform IRCC of any changes in their study plans, including switching to a new DLI. The student can submit their new letter of acceptance using the IRCC web form. If the student’s DLI changes after their study permit has been approved, they must submit a new study permit application and pay the appropriate fees.

 

Changing DLIs after Receiving a Study Permit

Once a student receives their study permit, they can transfer to a different DLI within Canada, provided they follow the requirements outlined by IRCC. Section 220.1 of the IRPR states that foreign nationals must actively pursue studies in Canada to maintain their study permit status. This means that a change in DLI must be officially updated to ensure the student remains compliant with the permit terms.

 

Students undertaking post-secondary studies in Canada can transfer between institutions (both public and private) or change their course or program of study without applying for a change to the conditions of their study permit, as long as the receiving institution is a DLI. Students should notify IRCC through their MyAccount when they transfer to another DLI.

 

Changing a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) as an international student in Canada is manageable but requires adherence to specific procedures outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Whether students need to update their study plans before or after receiving their study permit, it is essential to follow the correct process to maintain compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR). By doing what is needed, international students can avoid potential issues with their status in Canada and stay on track with their academic and immigration goals.