IRCC has established new rules for international students moving to designated institutions (DLIs) for the fall and spring semesters of 2025. Under certain conditions, these guidelines permit some students to begin their studies at a new DLI without a study permit.

Early DLI research requires certain conditions.

International students migrating to a new DLI location can start studies without a new permit if they meet the following requirements:

1. Acceptance at a New DLI: Students must get a 2025 fall or spring semester acceptance letter to attend the new DLI location.
2. Study Permit Extension Application: Send study permit extensions to the IRCC.
3. Valid Study Permission: Students need study permission, even if the new DLI name is unavailable.
4. Legal compliance: Students must follow their study permit’s requirements.

To qualify for this exemption, a student must meet certain conditions. International students who transferred to another DLI were required to apply for a study permit extension and receive a new study permit, rather than updating their profile online.

Effect on PGWP eligibility

Depending on when they applied and their level of study, moving schools may also have an impact on students eligible for a Postgraduate Work Permit (PGWP).

• Research standards are the same for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students, regardless of college enrolment. Pre-November 1, 2024, submissions
• There are no research requirements for college, non-college, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees.

Applications Submitted After November 1, 2024

• A university bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree is not required.
• Other University Degree Programs: Students must have a relevant degree.
• For both university and non-university programs, the educational prerequisites must include a degree.

Additionally, all PGWP applicants must now meet updated language proficiency criteria. Students must provide results from an IRCC-approved language test, demonstrating:

• University programs require a CLB Level 7 (English) or NCLC Level 7 (French).
• For college and non-university programs, a CLB Level 5 in English or NCLC Level 5 in French is required.

Standard Procedures for Transfers After Winter/Spring Semesters

Different regulations apply to students who modify their DLIs after the conclusion of their winter or spring semesters in 2025. These conditions must be satisfied to commence studies at the new institution before the issuance of a new study permit:

• The student must remain in Canada after receiving their letter of admission from the new DLI.
• Compliance with the conditions of your previous study permit must continue.

One of the following factors must have disrupted the prior course of study:

• The program or course ended, and the previous DLI closed.
• The institution may lose its designated status or find itself on a suspension list.

Conclusion

The IRCC’s transitional procedures are intended to streamline the process for overseas students changing schools while maintaining adherence to Canada’s immigration laws. Stricter eligibility requirements for PGWP applications are also included in the revised standards, which offer flexibility to enable students to concentrate on their academic goals without needless delays.

Students who want to move should read these rules carefully to make sure they follow them and have a smooth transition to their new school. To guarantee compliance and a seamless transfer to their new school, international students should carefully understand these requirements.