Canada Designated Learning Institutions' Compliance with IRCC Regulations

Last Updated On : December 05 , 2024

As of November 8, 2024, new regulatory changes under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) emphasize the accountability of Canada Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to uphold these standards.

What Are Canada Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)?

Designated Learning Institutions are schools or universities in Canada that are approved to host international students. To study in Canada, students must receive an acceptance letter from a recognized DLI and comply with conditions set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Here Is How DLI Will Process Your Study Visa Application?

When applying to study in Canada, your institution, a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), must meet certain conditions to ensure your application and study experience go smoothly. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship outline these requirements.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) ensures that DLIs comply with specific rules when dealing with international students. Here's an easy breakdown of what your DLI must do under these rules:

Providing You Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

Before you can study in Canada, your DLI must confirm the authenticity of your Letter of Acceptance (LOA).

• IRCC may ask the DLI to verify whether you've been officially accepted to the program.
• The DLI must respond within 10 days via the LOA portal or email.

Reporting International Students Enrollment Status to IRCC

Once you've started studying, the DLI regularly updates IRCC officers about your enrollment status.

• Twice a year (on March 1 and November 1), the DLI must send a report confirming whether you are actively enrolled.
• The report must be submitted within 60 days after IRCC requests it.

DLI Response For Additional Information Requests

Sometimes, IRCC may ask your DLI for more information about your study permit or application.

• The DLI must supply the required details promptly.
• They must respond within 10 days unless an extension is granted for exceptional reasons.

Note: These obligations apply to all provinces except Quebec, where specific frameworks for compliance reporting are still under development.

Why Should International Students Apply To A DLI To Study in Canada?

When choosing a school in Canada, ensure it is a registered Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that is compliant with IRCC's regulations. This will help ensure your study permit is on time. You can always verify a DLI's status on the official IRCC website if you have concerns.

DLI Ensures Canadian Institutes are a Trusted Global Education Destination

The new regulations aim to uphold the credibility of Canada's international education system by ensuring that Designated Learning Institutions maintain high accountability standards. These changes protect the interests of international students while reinforcing Canada's position as a trusted global education destination.

Prospective students should ensure that their selected institution adheres to IRCC regulations to prevent issues with their study permit applications.

Final Thoughts

The strengthened regulatory framework for Canada Designated Learning Institutions reflects Canada's commitment to maintaining the integrity of its international student program. DLIs must embrace these changes to support students and foster trust with IRCC, ensuring long-term success for both institutions and learners.

Understanding these updated compliance requirements allows international students to make informed decisions when planning their educational journey in Canada.

Reference :

IRCC Program Delivery Update

Frequently Asked Questions About Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada