Are you an international student in Canada who’s thinking about switching to a different school? This guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through the process of changing your DLI or school, step by step.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or have already arrived, you’ll learn how to make the change smoothly and avoid any potential issues. Let’s get started and discover how international students in Canada can switch their Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
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1. Changing DLI as an International Student:
International students in Canada are allowed to change their educational institution (DLI) after arriving in Canada on a study permit. However, it’s important to do so correctly to avoid issues with study permit compliance.
Failure to make this change correctly and without notifying Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can result in non-compliance with your study permit conditions. This could potentially lead to difficulties when applying for a post-graduation work permit or even deportation to your country of origin.
2. When Can Students Change Designated Learning Institution:
Students can change their DLI at various stages: while their study permit application is in progress, after their study permit is approved (but they’re still outside Canada), or after arriving in Canada and obtaining their study permit.
The change can be made before starting classes for the intake they were admitted to, or even after completing the first semester.
3. Timeframe for Changing DLI:
International students typically have around 150 days from the time they stop attending classes at their current institution to enroll in a course at a different DLI.
4. How to Change Designated Learning Institution (DLI):
To change the DLI, students should follow these steps:
Step 1:
Obtain an offer letter from the new educational institution in Canada. Colleges and universities may take some time to provide an offer letter. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from making any other decisions until you have received it.
Step 2:
Log in to your GCKey account used for the initial study permit application. If you applied through an agent/consultant, obtain GCKey credentials or create a new account and link your study permit application.
Click here to Know How to Create a GCKey account
Under the ‘Transfer from DLI number’ section, select ‘Designated Learning Institution Student Transfer.’
Step 3:
Enter your current study permit application number and search for your application.
The study permit number, which begins with the letter ‘S’, can be found in the upper right-hand corner of your permit.
If necessary, you might need to provide additional information concerning your initial study permit application, as outlined below:
Step 4:
Enter the new DLI number, new Student ID number, and new school’s start date (from the acceptance letter). Submit the transfer request by clicking on the ‘Submit Transfer’ button.
Step 5:
Upon selecting ‘submit transfer,’ you will be presented with a review of the information you provided for the new Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Once you’ve verified the details, simply click on ‘Confirm Transfer’ to finalize the procedure.
A confirmation indicating the fulfillment of your request will be displayed on your screen, as depicted in the provided snippet.
That concludes the process. Your transfer to the new DLI has been successfully accomplished.
5. Consequences of Not Informing IRCC:
Failing to inform IRCC about changing your DLI can lead to complications when applying for a work permit after graduation and potential removal from Canada due to non-compliance with study permit conditions.
6. Post-Secondary School Changes:
If you’re changing post-secondary schools, ensure that the new school is also a Designated Learning Institution. You must inform the authorities each time you change post-secondary schools, and changing the school on your account is a free service.
This applies to universities, community colleges, institutes, private universities, career colleges, language training, and more.
7. Studying in Quebec:
If you’re moving to a school in Quebec, you’ll need an attestation of issuance of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ). Contact the relevant department if you’re studying in Quebec and want to change your educational institution, program, or level of study.
Conclusion:
Changing your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) as an international student in Canada is a manageable process when approached correctly. By adhering to the guidelines provided by the government and informing Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) about the change, you can ensure that your transition is smooth and compliant with study permit conditions.
Remember, timely communication, correct documentation, and stay informed about the process are key to successfully switching schools.
Remember that this information serves as a general guide and you should refer to official government sources.
