IRCC Introduces Transitional Measures for International Students Transferring Schools in 2025
Table of Contents:
- Introduction: New Rules for International Students Changing DLIs
- Eligibility Criteria for Transferring to a New DLI in Winter/Spring 2025
- Conditions for Studying Before Receiving a New Study Permit
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Considerations for Transferring Students
- Language Proficiency Requirements for PGWP Eligibility
- Standard Process for Transferring Schools After Winter/Spring 2025
- Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Students Transferring DLIs in 2025
1. Introduction: New Rules for International Students Changing DLIs
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced new guidelines for international students planning to transfer schools within Canada for the 2025 winter or spring semesters. This update allows students to begin studying at their new Designated Learning Institution (DLI) before receiving a new study permit, a significant shift from previous policies. However, there are specific requirements students must meet to take advantage of this transitional measure.
These changes provide flexibility for students who wish to transfer to a new school and continue their studies without unnecessary delays while awaiting the issuance of a new study permit.
2. Eligibility Criteria for Transferring to a New DLI in Winter/Spring 2025
To be eligible to start studying at a new DLI before receiving a new study permit, international students must meet the following conditions:
- Accepted by the New DLI: The student must have received an acceptance letter from the new DLI for the winter/spring 2025 intake.
- Application for New Study Permit: The student must have applied to IRCC for a new study permit via an extension application.
- Valid Study Permit: The student must hold a valid study permit, but the permit should not list the name of the new DLI.
- Compliance with Study Permit Conditions: The student must continue to meet all the existing conditions of their current study permit.
This policy applies to students changing DLIs within Canada and is designed to streamline the process of transferring schools for those who meet these criteria.
3. Conditions for Studying Before Receiving a New Study Permit
Prior to this change, international students transferring schools in Canada were required to wait for their new study permit to be approved before starting at their new institution. This often caused delays, especially if a new permit was required.
With the new policy in place, students can begin studying at their new DLI immediately upon meeting the following conditions:
- Letter of Admission: The student must have received an official Letter of Admission (LOA) from the new DLI.
- Application for Study Permit Extension: The student must have already applied for an extension of their study permit.
- Maintain Current Study Permit Conditions: Students must continue to meet the terms of their existing study permit, including full-time enrollment and other stipulations.
This change allows students to transition smoothly and without interruption, as long as they follow these guidelines.
4. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Considerations for Transferring Students
The eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) may be impacted depending on when students applied for their new study permit and the level of their studies. If students applied for their new study permit before November 1, 2024, they may not face any changes in the eligibility criteria for a PGWP. However, students who apply after this date should be aware of new requirements:
- Programs of Study:
- For university-level programs (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral), there are no changes to the field of study requirements.
- For non-university programs (such as college programs), students must graduate from an eligible field of study in order to be eligible for a PGWP.
This distinction is important for students transferring from one institution to another, as their choice of program and field of study may affect their ability to obtain a PGWP after graduation.
5. Language Proficiency Requirements for PGWP Eligibility
As part of the changes to PGWP eligibility, international students who wish to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit will now need to meet new language proficiency standards. All applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in either English or French through an IRCC-approved language test.
The following language proficiency levels are required:
- For University Programs: Students must show a language proficiency equivalent to a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 (for English) or a Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) level 7 (for French).
- For College or Non-University Programs: Students must show a language proficiency equivalent to a CLB or NCLC level 5.
These new language requirements aim to ensure that graduates are adequately prepared for the Canadian job market and can contribute effectively to the workforce.
6. Standard Process for Transferring Schools After Winter/Spring 2025
For students transferring schools after the winter or spring semester of 2025, the process will differ slightly. These students can only begin studying at their new DLI before receiving their new study permit if they meet the following conditions:
- Remain in Canada: The student must have stayed in Canada after receiving the Letter of Admission (LOA) from the new DLI.
- Meet Existing Study Permit Conditions: The student must continue to adhere to the conditions set out in their previous study permit.
- Special Circumstances at the Old DLI: If the old DLI has closed, discontinued the program, been suspended, or lost its status as a designated institution, the student may begin studying at the new DLI without waiting for a new study permit.
These conditions are meant to protect students from being forced to leave Canada or suspend their studies due to issues with their previous institution.
7. Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Students Transferring DLIs in 2025
The new IRCC transitional measures provide significant flexibility for international students transferring schools within Canada in 2025. Eligible students can begin studying at their new DLI without waiting for the approval of a new study permit, making it easier to continue their education without delays.
However, students must ensure they meet specific eligibility criteria, including holding a valid study permit, having applied for a new study permit extension, and complying with the existing conditions of their current permit. Furthermore, students should be aware of the new language and field of study requirements if they plan to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their studies.
By following these guidelines, students can make the most of the new opportunities and avoid interruptions in their academic journey in Canada.
For a free consultation about your work permit and student permit options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
