Changing Your School as a Post-Secondary Student in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're a post-secondary student in Canada, there may come a time when you need to change your school or program of study. Whether you're looking for a better fit for your academic goals, pursuing a more suitable program, or adjusting your educational path, understanding the process is crucial to ensure compliance with your study permit conditions.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps and requirements for changing your school while studying in Canada, based on the latest updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

1. If Your Study Permit Application Is Still in Progress

If you've already applied for a study permit but want to switch to a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you can update your application by submitting:

• A new letter of acceptance (LOA) from your desired DLI.
• A provincial or territorial attestation letter, if required.

2. Confirming Your Student Status

If you already have a study permit, IRCC may send you an email to confirm your enrollment and active student status.

• The email will come from an address ending in “@cic.gc.ca”.
• You must follow the instructions by the specified deadline to avoid complications with your study permit.

3. How to Change Your School: New Rules Starting November 8, 2024

Effective November 8, 2024, you must apply for a new study permit to switch schools at the post-secondary level. Here’s what you need to know:

Choosing a New DLI

Before changing schools, ensure your new institution:

• Is listed as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Is not on the suspension list (DLIs on this list are not eligible to enroll new international students).

If your new program involves a co-op component, you’ll also need to apply for a new co-op work permit.

Required Documents

When applying for a new study permit, you must include:

• A letter explaining why you are changing schools.
• Proof that you meet the criteria to begin studying at the new DLI while your application is being processed (if applicable).

4. When Can You Start Studying at Your New DLI?

You can start studying at your new school while waiting for a decision on your new study permit application only if:

• You have remained in Canada since receiving your LOA from the new DLI.
• You continue to meet the conditions of your previous study permit.
• Your previous DLI has closed, discontinued your program, been placed on the suspension list, or lost its designated status.

If you don’t meet these criteria, you must obtain a new study permit before starting studies at your new DLI.

5. Attending a DLI on the Suspension List

You can only attend a DLI on the suspension list to complete a program you’ve already started. Switching to such an institution for a new program is not allowed.

6. What Happens if You Don’t Inform IRCC About Changing Schools?

Failing to inform IRCC about changing schools can lead to serious consequences:

• Your old school may report you as not enrolled, violating your study permit conditions.
• Your study permit may become invalid or be cancelled.
• You could face removal from Canada or future application refusals for study or work permits.

7. Special Rules for Changing Schools in Quebec

If you’re moving to a school in Quebec, you may need additional documentation:

• Most students require an attestation of issuance for a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and must include it in their new study permit application.
• If switching between vocational training centres (VTCs), a new study permit and CAQ are not required.

Contact the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) for guidance on changing your institution, program, or level of study within Quebec.

8. Key Takeaways for Post-Secondary Students

• Always ensure your new school is a DLI and not on the suspension list.
• Submit updated documents promptly via the IRCC web form if your application is in progress.
• Apply for a new study permit starting November 8, 2024, when changing schools at the post-secondary level.
• Notify IRCC to avoid complications with your study permit status.

At StepUp Immigration, we’re here to help international students navigate these changes with confidence. Whether you need assistance with your study permit application, understanding compliance rules, or finding the right program, our team of experienced professionals is ready to guide you. Contact us today to ensure your academic journey in Canada is seamless and stress-free!

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