Can You Change Schools or Programs on Your Study Permit in Canada in 2026?

For international students already in Canada, switching schools (Designated Learning Institutions, or DLIs) or programs is a common question, especially amid the evolving study permit rules under the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan. The short answer: In most cases, no you cannot freely change schools on your existing study permit. IRCC’s stricter policy, effective since November 8, 2024, remains fully in place in 2026 and requires a new study permit application in many situations.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the current rules, exceptions, and what you need to do if you’re considering a change.

Changing Your School (DLI)

Since November 8, 2024, your study permit is tied to the specific DLI named on it. You must be enrolled at that institution.

• To switch to a different post-secondary DLI (university, college, etc.): You must apply for a new study permit by submitting an extension application (even if your current permit has not expired yet).
  • You generally cannot start classes at the new school until the new study permit is approved.
  • Include a new letter of acceptance from the new DLI and (if required) a valid Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) for 2026.
• Exceptions (limited cases where you may start sooner):
  • Transitioning from secondary (high school) to post-secondary, if you applied for the extension before your old permit expired.
  • Your previous DLI closed, lost DLI status, went on strike, or discontinued your program (IRCC may allow special arrangements—contact them immediately).

If you’re outside Canada and change schools after approval but before arrival, submit a brand-new study permit application.

Changing Your Program (at the Same School)

Rules are more flexible here:

• If you stay at the same DLI and switch to a program at the same level of study (e.g., one bachelor’s to another bachelor’s, or one diploma to another diploma), you usually do not need a new study permit.
  • You can continue studying as long as your current permit remains valid and you meet all conditions (e.g., full-time enrollment, actively pursuing studies).
• If you switch to a different level (e.g., diploma to bachelor’s, undergraduate to master’s), or if the change impacts cap/PAL/TAL rules, you may need to apply for an extension and provide updated documents (including a new PAL/TAL if applicable).
• PGWP consideration: Always verify the new program’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code against the frozen 2026 PGWP-eligible fields list—switching to a non-eligible field could affect your post-graduation work permit eligibility.

Special Notes for 2026

• Master’s and PhD students at public DLIs: Exempt from the national study permit cap and PAL/TAL (since January 1, 2026). Changing schools still typically requires a new permit application, but the process may be streamlined for graduate-level changes.
• Joint programs or multi-province studies: Recent February 2026 updates clarify that only one PAL/TAL is needed in many cases, but changing DLIs still triggers the extension requirement.
• Consequences of non-compliance: Studying at an unauthorized DLI or breaking conditions can lead to loss of status, removal proceedings, or future inadmissibility.

Steps to Change School or Program

1. Obtain a letter of acceptance from the new DLI (and PAL/TAL if needed).
2. Apply online for a study permit extension via your IRCC secure account (use the appropriate form, e.g., IMM 5709).
3. Pay fees (~CAD $150 processing + biometrics if required).
4. Submit supporting documents (new acceptance letter, updated proof of funds, explanation letter if needed).
5. Wait for approval before starting at the new school (unless in an exempt transition).
6. Update your IRCC profile with any changes (address, contact info).

Processing times vary (often 4–12 weeks), so plan ahead to avoid gaps in status.

Worldbridge helps international students navigate these rules. Our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) can review your situation, guide you through extension applications, ensure PAL/TAL compliance, and explore post-study pathways like PGWP to PR. Contact us for a free assessment to make your change smooth and compliant in 2026! 🇨🇦

Let Worldbridge Immigration Services be your guide to a successful future in Canada
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Website: www.theworldbridge.ca
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