Douglas Olsen
International students in Canada can change their university or program at any time without needing to apply for a new study permit. However, it is important to follow the correct procedure and stay within the conditions of your study permit. Students must demonstrate that they are making reasonable progress towards completing their course and should not stop studying for more than 150 days. There are support services available to help international students navigate the transfer process, and it is recommended to connect with an expert early on to save time and money.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Need for a new study permit | Not required if the current permit is valid and has no limiting conditions. |
| Time limit for transfer | 150 days from stopping studies at the previous college/university. |
| Reporting transfer to Immigration Canada | Required when changing colleges/universities, not when changing programs at the same college/university. |
| Transfer procedure | Enter study permit application number, fill in new program and DLI details, click submit transfer, confirm transfer, and notify IRCC. |
| Transfer support | Available from on-campus counsellors and professional agencies like IDP. |
| Transfer costs | Visa application fee for a new study permit. |
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What You'll Learn
- International students can change their university in Canada without needing a new study permit
- Students must inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) each time they change university
- Students must apply for a new study permit if they change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Students must notify IRCC of their new DLI number and start date of the new program
- Students can seek support from on-campus counsellors or professional agencies to navigate the transfer process
International students can change their university in Canada without needing a new study permit
Changing universities can be a daunting process, especially for international students in Canada. However, it is possible for international students to change their university in Canada without needing a new study permit, provided they follow the correct procedures and meet certain conditions. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1: Seek Guidance
On-campus counsellors or professional agencies like IDP can provide valuable advice and support throughout the process. They can help you find the right university and program that aligns with your academic goals and ensure a smooth transition.
Step 2: Understand the Requirements
Before initiating the transfer process, ensure that you meet the necessary requirements specified in your study permit. This includes demonstrating reasonable progress toward completing your current program and providing a valid reason for the transfer. Remember that your previous school must report your change of status to remain in compliance with immigration regulations.
Step 3: Find the Right University
Research and identify potential universities that offer the program you wish to transfer into. Ensure that your chosen university is listed as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and is not on the suspension list. This is a crucial step to maintain the validity of your student permit.
Step 4: Gain Acceptance
Apply for admission to your chosen university and wait for their acceptance. Having an offer from the new university is essential before proceeding with the transfer process. This step may involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other application materials.
Step 5: Notify the Necessary Authorities
Once you have secured acceptance into your new university, it is imperative to notify Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) of your change of Designated Learning Institution (DLI). You can do this by submitting a new letter of acceptance using the IRCC web form. Additionally, update your DLI number in your Immigration Canada online account.
Step 6: Complete the Transfer Process
Provide any additional information required by your new university, such as your new student ID number and the start date of your program. Confirm the transfer once you have verified that all the information submitted is accurate. You will receive a notification confirming the successful completion of your transfer request.
Important Considerations:
- Time Limit for Transfer: Be mindful of the time limit for transferring between institutions. If you decide to change universities, you must start or resume your studies at the new university within 150 days to maintain compliance with your student permit.
- Informing IRCC: Failing to inform IRCC of your change of university can have consequences. Your previous institution will report you as unregistered, which can negatively impact your immigration record and may even result in a request to exit Canada.
- Quebec Requirements: If you are transferring to a school in Quebec, you must obtain a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ). Contact the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) for specific guidance.
- Program Transfer: If you are transferring to a new program within the same university, you are not required to report the change to Immigration Canada. However, if you transfer to a different university, updating your DLI number is necessary.
Remember, while changing universities can be a challenging decision, it is important to prioritize your academic goals and well-being. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully transfer to a new university in Canada without the need for a new study permit.
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Students must inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) each time they change university
Changing universities can be a daunting process, but it doesn't have to be complicated. If you're an international student in Canada and you want to change universities, there are a few important things you need to do to ensure you remain in good standing with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Understand the Requirements
Before initiating a transfer, it's essential to review the conditions of your study permit. International students in Canada are allowed to change universities without applying for a new study permit, as long as their current permit is valid and has no limiting conditions. Additionally, your reason for transferring must be reasonable, and you must demonstrate that you are making reasonable progress towards completing your course or program.
Step 2: Find the Right University and Program
Take the time to research and choose a university and program that better suits your academic goals and interests. Ensure that your new university is listed as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and is not on the suspension list. This is crucial, as studying at an approved institution is a requirement of your Canadian study permit.
Step 3: Submit Your Transfer Application
Once you've been accepted into the new institution, it's time to submit your transfer application. Gather all the necessary documents from your new university, including your new DLI number, student ID number, and program start date. Log in to your Immigration Canada online account and update your new DLI number. You may also need to submit a new letter of acceptance using the IRCC web form.
Step 4: Notify IRCC
This step is crucial. Each time you change universities in Canada, you must inform IRCC. Failure to do so can result in negative consequences, as your previous institution will report you as unregistered, which can impact your immigration record and even your ability to stay in Canada. Use the IRCC web form or designated online platform to submit your new information, including your new DLI number and any other required details.
Step 5: Complete the Transfer Process
Follow through with the transfer process by confirming your new enrolment with the new university. Ensure that you start or resume your studies at the new university within 150 days of leaving your previous institution. This is a time limit imposed by the immigration authorities to maintain your student status in Canada.
Changing universities as an international student in Canada requires careful consideration and adherence to specific procedures. By following these steps, you can ensure that your transfer process goes smoothly and that you maintain compliance with IRCC regulations. Remember, you don't have to navigate this process alone; seek support from on-campus counsellors or professional educational counselling services if needed.
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Students must apply for a new study permit if they change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
International students in Canada with a valid study permit can change their school or program at any time without needing to apply for a new study permit. However, they must notify the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) each time they change post-secondary schools.
Previously, students could change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI) by simply notifying IRCC through their online account. However, with new regulations in place, students must now apply for a new study permit to change their DLI. This means that students must be enrolled at the DLI named on their study permit.
To change your DLI, you will need to submit a new study permit application with a new letter of acceptance using the IRCC web form. You will also be charged a visa application fee again. If you are moving to a school in Quebec, you must get a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ). If you are already in Quebec pursuing your course, you have to contact the MIFI (ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration) to change your DLI.
You can inform the authorities about your change of DLI by submitting a new letter of acceptance and a provincial or territorial attestation letter (if needed) in the IRCC web form. You must also include a letter of explanation addressing why you plan to change schools and transfer to your new institution.
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Students must notify IRCC of their new DLI number and start date of the new program
International students in Canada with a valid study permit can change their school or program without needing to apply for a new study permit. However, it is crucial that they notify the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) about their change of institution. Failure to do so may result in negative consequences, including the possibility of being asked to leave Canada.
To notify IRCC of the new DLI number and start date of the new program, students can follow these steps:
- Enter the study permit application number and any other relevant details from the original study permit application.
- Fill in the information about the new program, including the new DLI number, the new student ID number, and the start date of the program.
- Submit the transfer request and carefully review the information submitted to ensure its accuracy.
- Complete the transfer process by confirming the transfer.
- Receive a notification confirming the successful completion of the transfer request.
It is important to note that students must meet specific conditions, such as actively studying in Canada and attending a university listed as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Additionally, there may be specific requirements for transferring to a school in Quebec, such as obtaining a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
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Students can seek support from on-campus counsellors or professional agencies to navigate the transfer process
International students in Canada can seek support from on-campus counsellors or professional agencies when navigating the transfer process to another university. This process can be daunting, but it is not particularly complicated when working with an expert who has helped other students transfer to better-suited programs. On-campus counsellors and professional agencies can help students find the right educational fit and submit admissions applications to universities across Canada.
On-campus counsellors are trained and experienced in helping students navigate the transfer process. They can provide guidance on finding a university that aligns with the student's academic, financial, and social needs. Counsellors can also assist in submitting admissions applications and provide support throughout the entire transfer process. Seeking support from on-campus counsellors can help ensure a smooth and successful transition to a new university.
Professional agencies, such as IDP Canada, also offer educational counselling services to international students. These agencies have teams of counsellors who are experienced in helping students transfer to different universities. They can provide valuable insights and guidance on navigating the transfer process, including information on transfer requirements, deadlines, and the credit transfer system. Professional agencies often have experience working with a wide range of universities, which can be beneficial in finding the best fit for the student's specific needs and goals.
Students can benefit from the expertise and resources offered by both on-campus counsellors and professional agencies. By seeking their support, students can gain a better understanding of the transfer process, explore their options for transferring to another university, and make informed decisions about their academic future. It is important for students to take initiative and reach out to these support services to ensure a positive and successful transfer experience.
Additionally, students can refer to online resources and platforms, such as Fastweb, which offer step-by-step guides to transferring colleges. These guides provide valuable insights into the transfer process, including recommendations to visit campuses, meet admissions officers, and assess the academic environment. Students can also connect with current students to gain first-hand insights into their experiences, helping them make well-informed decisions about their transfer plans. By leveraging both on-campus and online resources, students can confidently navigate the transfer process and work towards finding a university that aligns with their academic and personal aspirations.
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Frequently asked questions
No, international students with a Canadian study permit can change their school or program at any time without needing to apply for a new study permit. However, they must notify IRCC each time they change post-secondary schools.
First, gain acceptance at the new institution. Then, notify IRCC by submitting a new letter of acceptance using the IRCC web form. Enter your study permit application number, and fill in any additional details from your original application. Finally, fill in the information about your new school, including the new DLI number, your new student ID number, and your start date.
The student must demonstrate that they are making reasonable progress toward completing their course or program of study. Additionally, they must start or resume their studies at the new school within 150 days of leaving the previous institution.
Changing universities can be a complex process, and it is important to follow the correct procedures to stay within the conditions of your study permit. International students may need to obtain a new provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL or TAL) and update their DLI number in their Immigration Canada online account.
Yes, international students can access support from on-campus counsellors or professional agencies like IDP, which offer free educational counselling services to help students find the right educational fit and navigate the transfer process.
