New Guidelines for International Students Transferring Schools in Canada Starting 2025

As of January 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented significant changes to the rules governing the transfer of international students between schools in Canada. These updated regulations primarily affect students transferring between Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), shifting from one level of education to another, and how these transitions impact their study permits and eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). The new guidelines aim to better regulate and streamline the process for international students who wish to change schools during their studies.

This article outlines the important steps international students need to follow when transferring schools in 2025, including specific scenarios that may require a new study permit, temporary measures for students transferring early in the year, and the crucial impact these transfers may have on work permit eligibility.

Do You Need a New Study Permit When Changing Schools?

The requirements for international students to apply for a new study permit depend on the type of transfer and the level of education involved. Here is an overview of the different situations that may arise when transferring schools, and the corresponding actions that need to be taken:

SituationAction Required
Changing Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) at the post-secondary levelA new study permit must be applied for via an extension of the current permit.
Switching between post-secondary programs at the same DLINo action required as long as you continue to meet the conditions of your student status.
Transferring from secondary to post-secondary educationYou will need to apply for a new study permit by extending the current one.
Shifting from post-secondary to secondary educationA new study permit application is required.
Transferring between DLIs at the primary or secondary levelYou can continue studying on the current study permit, provided it remains valid and without specific restrictions.
Changing DLIs in QuebecMost students will need to apply for a new study permit, which must include an attestation of the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
Transferring between vocational training centers (VTCs)A new study permit is not required, but a new CAQ is necessary.

Note: Only Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada are authorized to accept international students. Study permits are invalid for students attending non-DLI institutions. Additionally, it is important to report any changes in your study situation to IRCC. Failing to notify the authorities about a school transfer could lead to the cancellation of your study permit or even your expulsion from Canada.

How to Apply for a New Study Permit via Extension

In cases where a new study permit is needed due to a school transfer, students must follow the extension application process. Here are the general steps for applying for a study permit extension:

  1. Obtain a new Letter of Acceptance (LOA): The new DLI must provide you with a valid LOA, confirming your enrollment.
  2. Complete Required Forms: Make sure to fill out all the necessary forms as outlined in the IRCC Guide 5552.
  3. Submit Documents: Ensure you have all the required documentation listed in the guide, and submit them online via the IRCC portal.
  4. Pay the Necessary Fees: The standard fee for study permit applications is $150. If your study permit has expired, you may need to restore your status, which incurs additional fees.
  5. Wait for Approval: Submit your application online and wait for the IRCC’s decision. Be sure that your new DLI verifies your LOA in the designated time frame.

Students must remember that informing IRCC about their school change is a legal requirement. Failure to do so could result in severe consequences, including invalidation of your study permit or restrictions on future Canadian immigration applications.

Special Provisions for School Transfers Between January and May 1, 2025

Recognizing the need for flexibility, IRCC has introduced temporary measures for students who plan to transfer schools during the Winter or Spring 2025 semesters (between January and May 1). If you are an international student in this time frame, you can begin studying at your new school while your application for an extended study permit is still being processed, under the following conditions:

  1. You must have been accepted by a new DLI for the Winter or Spring semester intake.
  2. You have already applied for a study permit extension.
  3. Your current study permit remains valid and does not mention the new DLI.
  4. You continue to meet the conditions set by your original study permit.

Impact on Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility

One of the key concerns for international students transferring schools is the potential impact on their eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP is an open work permit available to international graduates of eligible post-secondary programs from DLIs in Canada. This work permit allows graduates to work for any employer in Canada, providing essential work experience for those seeking permanent residency.

However, recent changes to the rules governing the PGWP program could affect international students who transfer schools. Since November 2024, students who apply for a study permit extension may need to meet additional eligibility requirements to qualify for a PGWP. Specifically, the new regulations require that students meet both language and field of study criteria, depending on when they applied for their original study permit.

PGWP Eligibility for Students Who Applied Before November 1, 2024:

  • Language Requirements: International students must demonstrate proficiency in English or French equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in all four language abilities (listening, speaking, reading, and writing).
  • Field of Study: No additional field of study requirements apply.

PGWP Eligibility for Students Who Applied After November 1, 2024:

  • Language Requirements: Similar to those applying before November 1, 2024, with CLB 7 proficiency in all language abilities.
  • Field of Study: Students must have graduated from an eligible program of study in an eligible field.

These changes might pose challenges for students who initially applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024, as transferring schools could now require them to meet the field of study criteria, which wasn’t necessary before.

Fees Associated with School Transfers

International students should be aware that certain fees may apply when transferring schools. If your study permit has expired or if IRCC requires additional biometrics, the following fees may apply:

  • Study Permit (including extensions): $150 per person
  • Restoring Student Status: If your permit has expired, you may need to restore your status, which costs $389.75.
  • Biometrics Fees:
    • Individual: $85
    • Family (2 or more people): $170

Conclusion

The new IRCC guidelines for school transfers in Canada reflect a more regulated approach to international student mobility, balancing flexibility with clear documentation and procedural requirements. Students transferring schools should be mindful of the impact on their study permits, PGWP eligibility, and the potential fees involved. Staying informed and compliant with these regulations is crucial for maintaining legal status in Canada and ensuring the continuation of your studies and post-graduation opportunities.

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