VisabuddiesVB
ExploreGuidesQuestionsHow it works
Sign inStart selling
GuidesCanadaStudy Permit

Switching schools or programs inside Canada: usually no new study permit needed

Canada • Study Permit • study 0 views
By VisaBuddies Communityvia community — compiled from public visa forums

Documents Needed

  • Study permit

    Remains valid when changing DLI within Canada; extend it only if the new program runs past its expiry.

Step-by-Step

A student already in Canada on a study permit wanted to change school and program. Member consensus was clear and consistent:

  1. No new study permit is required. Once you have landed and hold a valid study permit, changing your designated learning institution (DLI) or program does not require a fresh permit application — the existing permit continues to apply.


  1. You must inform IRCC. The obligation is notification: after changing institutions, update your DLI information with IRCC (done through your online account). Members repeated this in every answer — the change is allowed, but IRCC must know where you are studying.


  1. Mid-semester transfers are possible. Asked whether one can move without completing a semester, members said yes — the same rule applies: switch, then notify IRCC.


  1. Extend the permit if the new program runs longer. If the transfer means your studies will continue past the current permit's expiry, apply for a study permit extension in time to finish the new course.


  1. Quebec is the exception. If the student is in Quebec, contact the Quebec authorities before changing DLI or program — Quebec's rules (CAQ) differ from the rest of Canada, and the pre-approval step matters there.


Caveat: transfer rules for international students were an area of active policy change after this thread; confirm current IRCC requirements before switching.

Dos, Don'ts & Tips

  • Do: Notify IRCC through your account after changing your DLI — the transfer is allowed but must be reported.
  • Don't: Don't change schools or programs in Quebec without contacting Quebec authorities first — the CAQ rules differ.
  • Do: Apply for a study permit extension if the new program extends beyond your current permit's validity.
  • Tip: DLI-change rules have tightened since this discussion; verify current IRCC policy before transferring.

Have a question about this? Join the discussion.

View Thread

Related Guides

study

Whole family moving on one study plan: study permit, spouse's open work permit, and timing

study

Should you disclose a prior diploma on a study permit application? Members say yes

study

Travelling home while your permit extension is in process: why the TRV date decides everything

study

Birth certificate address doesn't match your passport: is it a study permit problem?

study

How early can you travel to Canada before your study permit classes start?