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IRCC introduces flexible measures for international students transferring schools in 2025

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled new measures aimed at facilitating the academic transitions of international students who wish to transfer between Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada during the winter and spring semesters of 2025. These changes are part of a broader effort to streamline the transfer process, address emerging educational challenges, and enhance opportunities for international students.

The announcement reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to improving the experiences of international students, who play a vital role in the country’s education system and economy.

Below, we explore the details of these transitional measures, their implications, and the conditions under which they will apply.

Key measures

Under the new policy, international students transferring to a new DLI for the winter or spring 2025 semester will be allowed to begin their studies at the new institution before their new study permit is issued, provided they meet specific conditions. This exemption eliminates delays previously experienced by students who had to wait for formal approval before starting at a new institution.

Impact on Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility

A significant aspect of transferring schools is its potential impact on eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). IRCC has outlined specific field-of-study requirements for students applying for a PGWP based on the timing of their study permit application.

Applications Submitted Before November 1, 2024: No additional field-of-study restrictions apply to university or college programs.

Applications Submitted After November 1, 2024: Students in university programs outside bachelor's, master's, or doctoral studies, as well as those in non-university programs, must graduate from an eligible field of study to qualify for a PGWP.

Conditions for early study at a new DLI

To qualify for this exemption, students must fulfill the following criteria:

• The student must have submitted a study permit extension application to IRCC.
• The student must have an official letter of acceptance (LOA) from the new institution for the relevant semester.
• Students must already hold a valid study permit that does not list the new DLI's name.
• All conditions attached to the original study permit must continue to be met.

By meeting these conditions, students can begin attending classes at their new institution while their updated study permit application is processed.

Language Proficiency Standards

For PGWP eligibility, students must also demonstrate language proficiency in either English or French, as verified by IRCC-approved language tests. Requirements are as follows:

University Programs: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) level 7.

College and Non-University Programs: CLB or NCLC level 5.

Standard process for transfers beyond Spring 2025

The new transitional measures apply specifically to the winter and spring 2025 semesters. Students planning to transfer after these periods must adhere to a different process and meet more stringent conditions to begin studying at their new DLI before receiving an updated study permit.

Additional conditions for future transfers

• The student must remain in Canada after receiving the LOA from the new institution.
• The student must comply with the conditions of their previous study permit.
• The original DLI must have closed, discontinued the program, been placed on a suspension list, or lost its designated status.

These measures underscore the importance of maintaining compliance with all immigration regulations during academic transitions.

Addressing challenges faced by international students

The policy changes recognize the challenges faced by international students in navigating Canada’s immigration and education systems. Previously, transferring schools required students to obtain approval for a new study permit before beginning their studies, often leading to disruptions and delays.

By allowing students to start their programs before the issuance of a new study permit, IRCC reduces barriers and enhances flexibility, making Canada an even more attractive destination for international students.

Strengthening Canada’s global reputation

Canada has become a top destination for international students, thanks to its quality education system and inclusive immigration policies. These transitional measures further enhance the country’s reputation by demonstrating its ability to adapt policies to the needs of students and institutions alike.

Conclusion

IRCC’s transitional measures for international students transferring DLIs in 2025 represent a forward-thinking approach to addressing challenges in Canada’s education and immigration systems. By simplifying the transfer process and offering flexibility, these changes provide international students with greater opportunities to succeed academically and professionally.

While the policy focuses on immediate transitions, it also sets a precedent for future reforms that prioritize accessibility and adaptability. For Canada, the move strengthens its position as a global leader in education and immigration, ensuring that international students can continue to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the country’s multicultural fabric.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at

+1 778 239 7861 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.