Changing your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) as an international student in Canada is a standard process. Still, it must be done correctly to ensure compliance with your study permit requirements. This guide outlines the steps you need to follow to switch your DLI after arriving in Canada.
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When Can International Students Change Their DLI?
You can change your DLI while your study permit application is being processed or after it’s approved, either before you arrive in Canada or once you’ve obtained your study permit at the border. You can change this before starting your classes for the intake you’ve been admitted to or after completing your first semester. Generally, international students have up to 150 days to switch to another designated learning institution before ceasing attendance at their current institution.
Step-by-Step Process for Changing Your DLI
Follow these steps to change your designated learning institution:
Step 1: Obtain a Letter of Acceptance
Get a letter of acceptance from the new program or institution in Canada. Make sure to wait until you have this letter before proceeding further.
Step 2: Access Your GCKey Account
Log in to your GCKey account, which you used when initially applying for your study permit. If you applied through agents or counselors and didn’t have GCKey credentials, you can request them from your agent or create a new GCKey account and link it to your study permit application.
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Step 3: Enter the Study Permit Application Code
Enter your current study permit application code and click the “Search for my application” button. Your study permit code begins with the letter “S” and is located at the upper right-hand corner of your permit. You should provide additional information about your original study permit application if required.
Step 4: Submit Transfer
Log in with the code of your new designated learning institution, your new student ID code, and your new college start date from the acceptance letter you received in Step 1. Then, click the “Submit Transfer” button. After clicking this button, you’ll be prompted to review the details entered for the new designated learning institution. Once you’ve reviewed the information, click “confirm transfer” to complete the process. A confirmation message will appear on your screen, indicating that your transfer to the new designated learning institution is finalized.
By following these steps, you can successfully change your designated learning institution as an international student in Canada. It’s essential to make these changes accurately and inform Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada to avoid issues with your study permit and future work permit applications.
