Change Schools / DLI
Changing Schools or DLIs
As of November 2024, international students in Canada must apply for a new study permit if they want to change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Simply notifying Canada Immigration is no longer sufficient — you need a new permit before starting at the new school.
DLI Change
New Permit Needed
New Acceptance
Required
Processing
~3-8 weeks
Notify Canada Immigration
Mandatory
Why the Change?
Previously, students could change schools by simply updating their DLI in their Canada Immigration account. The new rule requires a full study permit application to ensure Canada Immigration can track which DLI a student is attending and enforce compliance with provincial attendance and progress standards.
Steps to Change Your DLI
Receive a new letter of acceptance from your desired DLI
Submit a new study permit application (inside Canada) through your Canada Immigration account
Include the new letter of acceptance, updated proof of funds, and a copy of your current permit
Pay the $150 CAD processing fee
Wait for approval before starting at the new school (unless you have maintained status)
Notify Canada Immigration after the new permit is issued to confirm the change
What to Keep in Mind
Do NOT start at the new school until the new permit is approved
If you apply before your current permit expires, you have maintained status and can continue studying at your current school
You must continue to meet all study permit conditions (full-time enrollment, academic progress) at your current DLI while waiting
Changing from a public DLI to a private DLI may affect PGWP eligibility
You cannot change schools if your study permit is refused — you must leave Canada
This change applies to all study permit holders regardless of level of study. Always consult the latest Canada Immigration policy before changing schools.