International students in Canada are now subject to stricter policies when switching schools, following major regulatory changes by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). As of November 8, 2024, students wishing to transfer to another Designated Learning Institution (DLI) must first apply for and receive a new study permit, significantly altering the landscape for those studying under a Canada student visa.

Stricter Transfer Requirements Implemented

In the past, students could change DLIs by simply updating their profile via the IRCC online portal. However, under the new framework, they must now complete a Canada visa application to extend their current study permit before transferring. The transition grace period expired on May 1, 2025, making these rules now fully enforceable.

Students considering changing schools should plan carefully to avoid violating immigration Canada regulations. Exceptions exist only in specific hardship situations, where students may change institutions before receiving a decision—provided they meet strict eligibility criteria.

Common Scenarios and What You Need to Do

These procedures directly affect those currently holding or applying for a Canada student visa and emphasize the need to understand the conditions of your study permit thoroughly.

How to Change Your School in Canada as an International Post-Secondary Student

If Your Application Is Still in Progress

If you have already submitted a Canada visa application for a study permit but want to change DLIs, you must use the IRCC web form to submit a new letter of acceptance (LOA) and a provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL), if applicable.

If You Already Hold a Study Permit

IRCC may email you to confirm your enrollment. You must follow the instructions before the indicated deadline to maintain your permit’s validity.

If You’re Outside Canada

Students who change DLIs after their study permit has been approved but before arriving in Canada must submit a brand-new application and pay the full fees again. This includes obtaining a new LOA.

What’s New After November 8, 2024?

Students planning to switch post-secondary institutions must apply to extend their study permit in advance. This new school must:

Appear on the official DLI list
Not be on the IRCC suspension list

If you’re in a co-op program and transferring to a similar one at another school, a new co-op work permit is also required.

Required Documents for Study Permit Extension

To extend your permit when changing DLIs, you must include:

A letter explaining the reason for your transfer
A valid PAL/TAL (required from January 22, 2025, onward)
Supporting documents that show you meet eligibility to start your new program while awaiting a decision

Already in the process of applying? These can be uploaded through the IRCC web form.

Can I Start Studying at the New School Right Away?

Only if all of the following apply:

You remained in Canada after receiving your new LOA
You’re still meeting the conditions of your current permit
One of these occurred with your old school:
- It closed
- Your program was cancelled
- It lost DLI status or was suspended

Winter and Spring 2025 Exception:
You may start at your new DLI (between Jan 1 and May 1, 2025) if:

You've applied to extend your study permit
Your current permit is still valid and doesn't list a DLI
You continue to meet all other study permit conditions

Failing to Report a School Change Has Serious Consequences

Changing schools without informing immigration Canada can lead to:

The old school reporting you as not enrolled
Violation of your Canada student visa conditions
Cancellation of your study permit
A removal order from Canada
Long-term impacts on your ability to obtain future permits, including Canada PR or a working holiday visa Canada

Why Work With a Canada Immigration Consultant?

While hiring an immigration consultant is not mandatory when applying for a Canada visa, many international students benefit from professional support. A licensed expert can:

Recommend the best immigration path (e.g., study visa, Canada PR, or working holiday visa Canada)
Ensure that your Canada visa application is accurate and complete
Help manage complex situations or school transitions
Improve your long-term immigration planning

Ready to Start Your Journey in Canada?

Find out if you qualify for a Canada student visa with a complimentary consultation from Caerus Immigration Consulting Ltd.

You can also watch one of our YouTube videos on applying for a Study Permit.

📧 Email us today at mark@caerusimmigration.com
Let our team help you navigate Canada immigration rules confidently and clearly.

International Students in Canada Face New Hurdles When Changing Schools