With a staggering 360,000 study permits expected to be issued by the end of 2024, Canada is solidifying its place as the go-to destination for international students like you!
Choosing the right institution is crucial for your success, and that’s where Designated Learning Institutions in Canada come into play.
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DLIs are the only schools approved to host international students like you, ensuring you receive a quality education recognised by the Canadian government.
Are you ready to join the ranks of these bright minds and explore everything the Great White North has to offer? Dive in!
Key Highlights
Here are the main points you’ll hit in this blog to learn about designated learning institutions in Canada.
| Topic | Key Points |
| How to Verify Your Institution’s DLI Status? | Check the IRCC website by selecting the province, search for the institution by name and city |
| List of DLI Approved Colleges in Canada | Algonquin College, Centennial College, University of Waterloo, York University, University of Guelph |
| Popular Programs at DLI Colleges | AI, engineering, environmental studies, IT |
| How to Change Your DLI Number? | Update your DLI number through MyCIC by providing your current study permit and acceptance letters |
| Post-Graduation Opportunities | Post-Graduation Work Permits: Up to three years |
What is DLI Canada?
A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada is an educational institution that has received approval from a provincial or territorial government to host international students like you.
If you plan to study in Canada, you must secure admission to designated learning institutions in Canada, as this is a fundamental requirement for applying for a study permit.
Here are some critical points about designated learning institutions in Canada.
- DLI List: Every province or territory maintains a list of DLIs, which includes colleges, universities, and other educational institutions authorised to enrol international students like you.
Not every school in Canada is a DLI, so it is crucial to verify that the institution you wish to attend is listed as one of the designated learning institutions in Canada. This list can be accessed on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Study Permit Requirement: To obtain a Canadian study permit, you must be accepted by one of the designated learning institutions in Canada. Proof of acceptance from a DLI is mandatory in your study permit application.
- DLI Number: All designated learning institutions in Canada are assigned a unique identification number known as the DLI number. This number is crucial for your study permit application, as it verifies that the institution is officially recognised for hosting international students.
The DLI number usually starts with the letter “O” followed by a sequence of numbers (e.g., “O123456789”). This number is in your acceptance letter or the institution’s official website.
- DLI Verification: If your institution has multiple campuses, each campus may have a different DLI number. It’s essential to double-check that you use the correct DLI number for your specific campus to avoid delays or issues with your study permit application.
List of Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) Colleges in Canada
Canada offers a wide array of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), giving you plenty of options depending on your preferred province or city.
The Canadian government approves these DLIs for hosting international students, and each has a unique DLI number that you will need when applying for your study permit.
To help you get started, here is a comprehensive list of some of Canada’s top Designated Learning Institutions, organised by province.
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DLI Colleges in British Columbia
British Columbia is known for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cities, making it an attractive choice.
Here’s a selection of DLI colleges in Canada.
| DLI Colleges in Canada – British Columbia | Location | DLI Number |
| University of British Columbia | Vancouver | O19330231062 |
| University of Victoria | Victoria | O19280533442 |
| Yorkville University | Vancouver | O129034707957 |
| Corpus Christi College | Vancouver | O19280180922 |
| Trinity Western University | Richmond | O19347055392 |
| University Canada West | Vancouver | O19377235822 |
| Thompson Rivers University | Kamloops | O19395299610 |
| ACE Community College | Surrey | O275682376662 |
| ARV Canada College | Richmond | O19394940254 |
| Academy of Excellence Hair Design & Aesthetics Ltd. | Victoria | O123960086627 |
DLI Colleges in Ontario
Ontario is home to Canada’s capital and many of its largest cities, offering you a diverse and dynamic environment.
Here is a list of DLI colleges in Canada and Ontario you can consider.
| List of DLI Approved Colleges in Canada – Ontario | Location | DLI Number |
| Algonquin College | Ottawa | O19358971022 |
| Centennial College | Toronto | O19394700003 |
| University of Waterloo | Waterloo | O19305471522 |
| York University | Toronto | O19361109242 |
| University of Guelph | Guelph | O19305391192 |
| Algoma University | Sault Ste. Marie | O19395422197 |
| Brock University | St. Catharines | O19394569014 |
| Carleton University | Ottawa | O19332687812 |
| Conestoga College | Kitchener | O19376158572 |
| Humber College | Toronto | O19376943122 |
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DLI Colleges in Alberta
Alberta offers a unique mix of urban sophistication and rugged natural beauty. It’s home to several top-rated DLI colleges, which provide a perfect blend of high-quality education and stunning surroundings.
Check out some of the DLI approved colleges in Canada.
| DLI Approved Colleges in Canada – Alberta | Location | DLI Number |
| University of Alberta | Edmonton | O19257171832 |
| Columbia College | Calgary | O19391275502 |
| University of Calgary | Calgary | O18886830282 |
| Vanguard College | Edmonton | O19283889212 |
| Lethbridge College | Lethbridge | O19391056756 |
| NorQuest College | Edmonton | O18795996622 |
| Athabasca University | Athabasca | O19092373272 |
| Ambrose University | Calgary | O18713147522 |
| Bow Valley College | Calgary | O19273769422 |
| Campbell College | Edmonton | O254363717757 |
DLI Colleges in Quebec
Quebec offers a unique cultural experience with its French-speaking environment. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in a new language while pursuing your studies.
Here is a list of designated learning institutions in Canada.
| Designated Learning Institution List in Canada – Quebec | Location | DLI Number |
| Vanier College | Montreal | O19359201897 |
| CDE College | Sherbrooke | O19338281175 |
| McGill University | Montreal | O19359011033 |
| Université Laval | Montreal | O19359011020 |
| Lachute Aviation | Lachute | O11003283266 |
| College LaSalle | Montreal | O19358462986 |
| Institut de tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec | Montréal | O110173474479 |
| Isart Digital Montréal inc. | Montréal | O112216989861 |
| École du Barreau du Québec | Centre de Gatineau | O112575462911 |
| Ordre des comptables professionnels agréés | Montréal | O112575462931 |
These are just a few examples of Canada’s many designated learning institutions. Each province offers unique educational opportunities and cultural experiences, so take your time to explore and choose the best DLI that aligns with your academic and personal goals.
Picture yourself studying in Canada — where exceptional education and affordability come together. If Canada is where you see your future, you’re joining countless others with the same dream.
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Popular Programs at Designated Learning Institutions in Canada
Choosing the right program is crucial for your academic and career success. Canada’s designated learning institutions offer a variety of programs, each with unique strengths.
Below is a table highlighting popular programs and the DLI-approved colleges in Canada where these programs are particularly well-regarded.
| DLI Approved Colleges in Canada | Popular Programs |
| Algonquin College | Artificial intelligence, civil engineering, biotechnology, electrical engineering |
| Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology | Mechatronics, software engineering, mathematics, environmental studies |
| Columbia College | Engineering, media, economics, computer science |
| NorQuest College | Environmental studies, education, data analysis, pharmacy |
| Camosun College | Electrical engineering, computer engineering, music, business |
| Cambrian College | Physics, game development, justice studies, information technology |
| George Brown College | Sales & marketing, information technology, family & consumer sciences, urban planning |
How to Check if Your Institution is on the Approved List?
Ensuring that your chosen institution is a designated learning institution (DLI) is crucial before you apply for a study permit in Canada. Here’s how to check if your institution is on the approved list.
Step 1: Visit the IRCC Website
Start by visiting the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. This is the most reliable source for up-to-date information on DLIs.
Step 2: Select the Province or Territory
Once on the IRCC website, you’ll need to select the province or territory where the university or college you’re interested in is located. This narrows down the list to institutions in that specific region.
Step 3: Search for Your Institution
In the search box on the website, enter the name of your university or college, the city, and any other relevant details. This search will help you find the institution on the DLI list.
Step 4: Note the DLI Number
After finding your institution, could you take note of its DLI number? You’ll need this number when filling out the “Details of Intention to Study in Canada” section on your study permit application. This number confirms that the Canadian government recognises your institution as a host of international students like you.
How to Change Your DLI Number?
If you need to transfer from one post-secondary school to another in Canada, you must update your DLI number with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
This process is essential because your study permit is linked to the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) you’re attending. Here’s how you can smoothly change your DLI number.
Documents You’ll Need
Before starting the process, make sure you have the following documents ready.
- Copy of Your Current Study Permit: This document is crucial as it confirms your legal status as a student in Canada.
- Acceptance Letter from Your Previous DLI: This letter shows that you were previously accepted by the institution you’re leaving.
- Acceptance Letter from Your New DLI: You’ll also need the acceptance letter and the DLI number of the institution you’re transferring to. This proves that you’ve been admitted to a new school.
Step-by-Step Process to Update Your DLI Number
Here is a step-by-step process for seamlessly transferring and updating your DLI number.
- Log in to MyCIC
Go to the MyCIC website and log into your account using your credentials.
- Find the Transfer Schools Option
Once logged in, look for the “Students: Transfer Schools” link under the “Start an application” option. This link is specifically designed for students who need to change their DLI.
- Enter Your Application Number
Input your current application number in the required field under the “Start an application” option. This helps IRCC locate your existing study permit details.
- Complete the Application Form
You’ll be directed to a page where you need to provide details about your transfer. Fill out all the necessary information, including your details, and click “Continue.”
- Enter Your New DLI Number
On the next page, enter the DLI number of the institution you’re transferring to. Double-check this number to ensure accuracy, as an incorrect DLI number could delay the processing of your request.
- Submit Your Request
After entering all the required information, click “Submit.” This will officially update your DLI number with IRCC, allowing you to continue your studies at your new institution without legal issues.
Why Should You Study at Designated Learning Institutions in Canada?
Deciding where to study is a big deal, especially considering international options. If Canada is on your list — and it should be — then you’ll want to focus on designated learning institutions (DLIs). But why are Designated Learning Institutions in Canada the best choice for you?
Dive into the benefits you’ll enjoy by choosing one of the DLI-approved colleges in Canada.
1. Experience Top-Notch Education
You deserve a high-quality education that sets you up for success, and that’s exactly what you’ll get at designated learning institutions in Canada. DLIs are held to strict academic standards, ensuring you receive an education respected worldwide.
2. Secure Your Canada Student Visa
Imagine you’ve picked the perfect program in Canada, but your student visa gets denied because your school isn’t recognised. Avoid that nightmare by choosing a DLI.
Only DLIs are authorised to enrol international students, which means your acceptance letter is your ticket to a Canada student visa. Without it, your study plans can’t take off — literally.
3. Work While You Study
Want to earn money or gain work experience while studying? At a DLI, you can do both! As a student at a designated learning institution in Canada, you can work off-campus without needing a separate work permit.
This means you can manage your living expenses, build your resume, and focus on your studies. It’s a win-win situation that gives you flexibility and financial independence.
4. Unlock Post-Graduation Opportunities
Your future doesn’t have to stop at graduation. Studying at a DLI opens the door to staying in Canada longer with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows you to work in Canada for up to three years after your studies.
It’s a fantastic way to gain work experience in your field and a key step if you’re considering applying for permanent residency. Studying at a DLI isn’t just about getting a degree — it’s about setting yourself up for long-term success in Canada.
To Conclude
Studying at one of the designated learning institutions in Canada offers you access to high academic standards, eligibility for a student visa, part-time work opportunities, and pathways to post-graduation work permits.
Verify your institution’s DLI status through the IRCC website, and follow the necessary steps to update your DLI number if you transfer schools.
If you’re ready to explore your possibilities in Canada, LeapScholar’s seasoned counsellors, who have over 50 years of experience, are here to help you clear the process.
Ready to begin your adventure? Schedule your free counselling session now and take the Leap!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are designated learning institutions in Canada?
Ans. Designated learning institutions in Canada are schools that have received approval from provincial or territorial governments to host international students. These institutions are essential for obtaining a study permit, as you must be enrolled in a designated learning institution in Canada to qualify.
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Q. Where can I find a list of DLI-approved colleges in Canada?
Ans. You can find the list of DLI-approved colleges in Canada on the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. This list is crucial as it includes all designated learning institutions in Canada, categorised by province or territory. Verifying your chosen school’s DLI status is essential for your study permit application.
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Q. Why is it important to study at designated learning institutions in Canada?
Ans. Studying at designated learning institutions in Canada is important because only these schools can enrol international students. You cannot apply for a study permit without acceptance from a designated learning institution in Canada. DLIs ensure that your education meets the high standards set by Canadian authorities, which is crucial for your academic and professional future.
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Q. How can I confirm if a college in Ontario is a designated learning institution in Canada?
Ans. To confirm if a college in Ontario is a designated learning institution in Canada, you should visit the IRCC website and use their search tool. Select Ontario as your province and enter the name of the college. This will allow you to verify if the institution is included on the list of DLI-approved colleges in Canada, which is necessary to obtain a study permit.
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Q. What should I consider when searching for the cheapest DLI colleges in Canada?
Ans. When searching for the cheapest DLI colleges in Canada, consider tuition fees and the cost of living in the areas. Some affordable options include community colleges and smaller universities, still recognised as DLIs. Ensure these institutions are listed on the designated learning institution list in Canada to ensure they meet the criteria for study permits.
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Q. Can I transfer between designated learning institutions in Canada?
Ans. Yes, you can transfer between designated learning institutions in Canada, but you must notify Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to update your DLI number. This process is crucial to maintaining your study permit’s validity. Always ensure your new institution is also on the list of DLI-approved colleges in Canada.
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Q. What is a DLI number, and why is it important for studying in Canada?
Ans. A DLI number is a unique identifier assigned to each designated learning institution in Canada. It is crucial for your study permit application, as it verifies that the Canadian government recognises the institution you are attending. Your study permit application will be rejected without a valid DLI number from a designated learning institution in Canada.
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Q. What benefits do designated learning institutions in Canada offer to international students?
Ans. Designated learning institutions in Canada offer numerous benefits, including eligibility for a Canadian study permit, the ability to work part-time during studies, and access to post-graduation work permits. Attending a designated learning institution in Canada ensures you receive a quality education and opens doors to further opportunities in Canada, such as applying for permanent residency.
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Q. How does the designated learning institution list in Canada impact your study plans?
Ans. The designated learning institution list in Canada is critical to your study plans as it determines where you can legally study as an international student. Only institutions on this list are authorised to enrol international students and provide the necessary documentation for a study permit. Ensuring your school is on this list is the first step in securing your study permit and pursuing your education in Canada.
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Q. Why is the designated learning institution in Canada key to obtaining a study permit?
Ans. The designated learning institution in Canada is key to obtaining a study permit because you must be enrolled in a DLI to qualify. The acceptance letter from a designated learning institution in Canada is a required document for your study permit application. Studying at a non-DLI institution would make you ineligible for a study permit, so it’s essential to choose your school carefully.
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Q. How can you find the best-designated learning institutions in Canada for your chosen field?
Ans. To find the best-designated learning institutions in Canada for your chosen field, start by consulting the designated learning institution list in Canada available on the IRCC website. Research each institution’s programs, faculty, and resources to determine which DLI is best suited to your academic and career goals.
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