Lori Meadows
International students in Canada are allowed to change their university or program of study, provided that they follow the proper procedures and stay within the conditions of their study permit. The process of changing universities may involve submitting a new study permit application, updating the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) number, and informing the IRCC or Immigration Canada, depending on the specific circumstances and level of education. It is important for international students to maintain valid visas and permits, as non-compliance can impact their ability to stay in Canada and their future immigration applications. Seeking guidance from counsellors or professional agencies can help international students navigate the transfer process and ensure a smooth transition to a new academic program or institution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students change universities in Canada? | Yes, international students can change universities in Canada. |
| What is the procedure for changing universities? | International students need to follow the conditions specified in their study permit. They may need to submit a new provincial/territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) and a new letter of acceptance. They must also inform IRCC each time they change universities. |
| Are there any fees involved? | Yes, students may have to pay a visa application fee again when submitting a new study permit application. |
| Is there a time limit for transferring? | Yes, if students stop studying at their current university, they must start or resume their studies at the new university within 150 days. |
| What happens if the study permit has expired? | Students will need to apply for a new study permit from inside Canada. |
| Can students change universities before entering Canada? | Yes, but they must inform immigration officers about the change before boarding their flight. |
| Can students change their program of study within the same university? | Yes, international students can change their program of study within the same university, provided that the reason for the change is reasonable. |
| Can students access support during the transfer process? | Yes, international students can access support from on-campus counsellors or professional agencies that offer free educational counselling services. |
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What You'll Learn
- International students can change universities in Canada
- They must follow the right procedure and meet study permit conditions
- A new study permit is needed when changing schools at the post-secondary level
- Students must inform IRCC each time they change post-secondary schools
- On-campus counsellors can offer advice and support to international students
International students can change universities in Canada
If an international student's study permit is still valid, they can resume their studies at a new university without applying for a new permit, unless their permit has conditions that limit them from doing so. However, if the permit has expired, students must apply for a new one. Starting on November 8, 2024, international students will need to get a new study permit by applying to extend their current one to change universities at the post-secondary level. Additionally, if the student is in a co-op program and is changing to a co-op program at a different university, they must apply for a new co-op work permit.
To change universities, international students must submit a new letter of acceptance using the IRCC web form and notify IRCC of the change. They may also need to submit a new provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL). It is important to note that there is a time limit for transferring from one university to another. If a student decides to change universities and stops studying, they must start or resume their studies at the new university within 150 days. If they fail to do so, they must apply to Immigration Canada to change their status or leave the country immediately.
International students can seek advice from on-campus counsellors or professional agencies that offer free educational counselling services to ensure they are following the correct procedures when transferring to a new university in Canada.
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They must follow the right procedure and meet study permit conditions
International students in Canada with a valid study permit can change their university or program at any time, provided they follow the proper procedure and meet the conditions of their study permit. The procedure for changing universities varies depending on the student's situation, the level of education, and the specifics of their study permit.
If an international student in Canada wishes to change their designated learning institution (DLI), they must submit a new study permit application and obtain a new letter of acceptance from the new institution. This process may also require paying additional fees and providing a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL or TAL). It is important to note that starting November 8, 2024, students will no longer be able to change their DLI through their online account and will have to apply for a new study permit. Additionally, students must ensure that their new institution is listed as an approved DLI and not on the suspension list.
When transferring between primary and secondary levels of education, students with a valid study permit that does not contain limiting conditions do not need to apply for a new permit or an extension. However, if the student's permit has conditions that restrict such changes, they must apply for an extension. Similarly, if an international student transfers from one program to another within the same college or university, they are not required to report the change to Immigration Canada.
For international students pursuing post-secondary education in Canada, changing schools or programs is permitted by immigration rules, provided they meet any conditions specified in their study permit and have a reasonable rationale for the change. Additionally, students must demonstrate reasonable progress toward completing their course or program of study. It is important to note that there is a time limit for transferring between post-secondary institutions, and failure to resume studies at the new institution within 150 days may result in the need to apply for a change of status or leave the country.
To summarise, international students in Canada can change universities or programs while on a study permit, but they must adhere to the correct procedures and satisfy the conditions set by their study permit and immigration regulations. Students should always refer to the official government sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding their specific situation.
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A new study permit is needed when changing schools at the post-secondary level
International students in Canada who are considering changing their designated learning institution (DLI) should be aware of the requirements for obtaining a new study permit. As of November 8, 2024, if you are enrolled at a post-secondary level and wish to change your DLI, you must apply for a new study permit by extending your current one. This means that the new school you plan to transfer to must also be a DLI.
To clarify, a DLI is a school that has been approved by the government to host international students. When transferring between DLIs at the post-secondary level, it is essential to initiate the process of obtaining a new study permit as soon as possible. This involves submitting a new letter of acceptance and, if required, a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) through the IRCC web form. It is worth noting that processing times for study permit extensions may vary, and it is recommended to apply early to avoid potential delays.
In addition to the standard study permit requirements, international students transferring between post-secondary institutions may need to provide evidence of their academic progress. This may include proof of enrolment in each academic session or term and timely progress toward completing their program of study. It is important to carefully review the documentation requirements for the new institution and ensure a smooth transition.
While awaiting the approval of your new study permit, there are specific circumstances in which you may be allowed to begin studying at your new DLI. This includes situations where you have been accepted to a DLI for the Winter or Spring 2025 semester (starting from January 1, 2025, to May 1, 2025). However, it is crucial to meet all the conditions of your previous study permit to remain compliant during this transitional period.
In summary, international students in Canada who are considering changing their designated learning institution at the post-secondary level need to obtain a new study permit by applying to extend their current one. This process involves submitting the necessary documentation, including a new letter of acceptance and, if required, a provincial or territorial attestation letter. It is important to initiate this process promptly and ensure compliance with all conditions of your previous study permit during the transition.
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Students must inform IRCC each time they change post-secondary schools
International students in Canada must inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) each time they change post-secondary schools. This process involves submitting a new study permit application to extend their current permit, which requires the payment of additional fees. The updated application should include a new letter of acceptance from the new Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and, if necessary, a provincial or territorial attestation letter.
It is important to note that this requirement comes into effect from November 8, 2024. Before this date, students could change their DLI by simply updating their online account. However, after this date, students must enrol in the DLI named on their study permit. Therefore, a change of DLI necessitates a new study permit.
Students can continue studying at their current DLI with their existing study permit, provided they meet the permit conditions. However, if they need to extend their study permit, they may be required to submit a new provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL). This extension process also applies when moving between post-secondary levels at the same DLI.
In some cases, students may be able to attend classes at the new DLI while their study permit extension is being processed. This typically applies if the previous DLI closed, lost its status, or discontinued the student's program. It is important to note that the previous school will report the student as unregistered, which can negatively impact their immigration record.
Additionally, if a student is in a co-op program and changes to a co-op program at a different school, they must apply for a new co-op work permit.
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On-campus counsellors can offer advice and support to international students
International students in Canada can access support from on-campus counsellors, who can offer advice and guidance on a range of topics. These counsellors are trained and experienced in helping students navigate the challenges of studying abroad and can provide valuable support to ensure a positive and successful experience.
On-campus counsellors can assist international students in finding the right educational fit and making informed decisions about their academic journey. They can help students understand the different programs and institutions available and guide them in choosing the best option for their needs and goals. This includes helping students transfer to a new academic program or institution if needed. Counsellors can also provide support with the admissions process, including submitting applications and navigating the credit transfer system, which allows international students to switch schools without losing time or money.
In addition to academic guidance, on-campus counsellors can offer support for the well-being of international students. This includes helping students adjust to a new culture and academic system, which can be overwhelming for those living and studying in a different country for the first time. Counsellors can provide a listening ear and help students feel welcomed and supported on campus. They may also facilitate social events or activities to promote student well-being, such as art therapy sessions or social gatherings, which can help international students build connections and foster a sense of community.
Some institutions also offer specialised services for international students, such as the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). NACAC counsellors can assist international students and their families in understanding the differences between US colleges and universities and help mediate conflicts that may arise between parents and students regarding program choices. They can also provide guidance on determining whether a campus is international student-friendly and offer advice on how to best experience campus life, such as encouraging students to visit campuses, join admission chats, or take virtual tours.
Overall, on-campus counsellors play a crucial role in supporting international students in Canada by offering practical advice and emotional support. By seeking their guidance, international students can make informed decisions about their academic path and enhance their overall well-being during their time studying abroad.
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