A Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) is a school that is authorized by the provincial or territorial government of Canada in order to host and accommodate international students from all over the world. However, all primary and secondary schools in Canada are authorized as designated learning institutions.
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Essential Requirements for DLI
In order to obtain a study permit from Canada, it is mandatory for the international students to obtain a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI).
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Primary and Secondary Schools DLIs
In Canada, all primary and secondary schools are authorized as Designated Learning Institutions (DLI). Whereas, in the case of post-secondary schools, they are required to receive permission from the provincial government to enroll the international students. The dependent minor children do not need a study permit to study in Canada.
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Post-secondary level DLIs
The pos-secondary level institutions are required to take permission from their respective governments to enroll international students. Those interested applicants who aspire to study in Canada at the post-secondary level must check the name of the respective institution on this list of Canadian DLIs.
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Post-Graduation Work Permit
For candidates who wish to stay in Canada as they graduate, it is also suggested to verify that their designated learning Institution allows them to excel for a post-graduation work permit.
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Changing Programs from DLI
There is no need to amend an international student’s study permit or notify IRCC if they change programs within the same designated learning institution (DLI).
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule:
- If the foreign national’s study permit has any restrictions, and these conditions will be affected by the change in program, the foreign national must contact IRCC to inform them of the changes.
- If a foreign national enroll in a program that lasts longer than the validity of their study permit, they must petition to have their study permit extended before it expires.
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Changing Level of Study of DLIs
Obtaining a new study permit or notifying IRCC of changes may be necessary depending on the degree of study for a foreign citizen. The following are some of the most prevalent differences across levels of study:
- Transitioning from primary to secondary education:
There is no need to apply for a new study visa. If the student is moving from one university to another as a result of this change, they should contact IRCC to adjust their educational institution.
- When transitioning from secondary to post-secondary school, you must apply for a new study permit from IRCC.
- Changing from one level of post-secondary education to another: Switching between various post-secondary levels of education (for example, from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree) does not need obtaining new study permission. If the student is moving schools or programs, or if the change will influence the term of study and the criteria mentioned on the permit, the student should follow the steps outlined above.