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International students walking on a Canadian university campus in autumn

Changing Schools or Programs as an International Student in Canada

As an international student in Canada, you may need to change schools or programs during your studies. This process can be complex, and understanding the requirements and steps involved is crucial. We will guide you through the process of changing schools or programs as an international student in Canada.

changing schools or programs

You can change schools or programs as an international student in Canada, but you must meet certain requirements and follow the proper procedures. The IRCC has rules and regulations regarding school transfers and program changes. Your new school or program must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), and you must have a valid study permit. It's also important to consider how changing schools or programs might affect your daily routine, such as finding new accommodations or adjusting to a new campus.

To transfer to a new school or program, you will need to research and choose a new school or program that meets your needs and is a DLI. This involves looking into the school's reputation, program offerings, and admission requirements. Once you've found a suitable school or program, you'll need to apply and ensure you meet the admission requirements. After being accepted, you'll need to obtain a new letter of acceptance and update your study permit to reflect the changes.

how to transfer to a new school or program

The process of transferring to a new school or program involves several steps. First, you'll need to apply to the new school or program and ensure you meet the admission requirements. Then, you'll need to obtain a new letter of acceptance and update your study permit. You can do this by applying for a new study permit or by requesting an amendment to your existing permit. It's essential to notify IRCC of the changes to your school or program. I've heard from other students that this process can be overwhelming, but taking it one step at a time can make it more manageable.

requirements for changing schools or programs

To change schools or programs, you must have a valid study permit, and your new school or program must be a DLI. You must also have a new letter of acceptance from the new school or program and update your study permit to reflect the changes. Additionally, you must notify IRCC of the changes. Changing schools or programs can affect your eligibility for certain benefits, such as working while studying or post-graduation work permits. For example, if you're currently working part-time on campus, you may need to reapply for a work permit or adjust your work schedule.

For more information on studying in Canada, you can visit the IRCC website or check out other articles, such as Studying in Canada: The International Student Guide or Working While Studying in Canada: The Rules for Students. Some students have also found it helpful to connect with other international students who have gone through the process, as they can offer valuable advice and support.

Official current rules are at canada.ca/immigration; this guide is independent reference content.

A small portion of this article — research support, fact-cross-checking, and copy-editing — was assisted by AI tooling. Editorial decisions, source verification, and final sign-off remain with our team. We cite primary sources from canada.ca for every factual claim.

Last reviewed: July 3, 2026

IRCC.com is an independent news site and not affiliated with the Government of Canada.

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