Study In Canada

Designated Learning Institutions in Canada 2024

8 min read
Blog Summary Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada are schools approved by the government to host international students. To study in Canada, you must be accepted into a DLI. This guide provides comprehensive information about DLI Canada, including the benefits of attending a DLI, application procedures, and a list of DLI approved colleges. Top institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia are featured. Understanding the DLI system ensures you meet the requirements for a study permit and have a seamless educational experience in Canada.

Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada play a crucial role for international students. Ever wondered what DLIs are and why they matter for students like you? DLIs are institutions approved by the Canadian government, offering programmes including those eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), opening doors to education and career prospects in Canada.

Curious to know more about DLIs and their significance? Stay tuned as we delve deeper into this topic in our blog.

What is DLI Canada?

Full Form of DLI -  Designated Learning Institution.  DLI Canada is an educational establishment recognised and authorised by its province or territory to welcome international students. Planning to study in Canada? Ensure your chosen institution is a DLI. Without being listed as a DLI, your study permit will be invalid.

Here are points on how to Verify Your Institution's DLI Status?

  • The official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website is your starting point.
  • The selection of the province or territory is next, based on where your potential DLI university or DLI college is located.
  • Inputting the name of the university or college, city, or other relevant details into the search box is the third step.
  • Notation of the DLI number is crucial for the "Details of Intention to Study in Canada" section on your study permit application.

Note: Canadian institutions, such as DLI-listed universities in Canada or DLI colleges in Canada Ontario with multiple campuses, often have a distinct DLI number for each location. Accuracy in selecting the exact location is paramount. 

Why Study at DLI in Canada?

Designated Learning institutions are officially recognised by the Canadian government, ensuring they meet high educational standards. Here's why choosing a DLI Canada could be a smart move:

  • PGWP Eligibility: Enroll at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), essential for gaining Canadian work experience post-study.
  • Quality Education: DLIs in Canada are synonymous with excellence, offering globally recognised programmes that set you up for international success.
  • Diverse Programmes: With a broad range of PGWP-eligible programmes, DLIs cater to various academic interests and career aspirations, ensuring you find the perfect fit.
  • Inclusive Environment: Canada's multicultural and welcoming community provides an enriching and supportive backdrop for international students, enhancing the overall learning experience.

List of DLI approved colleges in Canada

Here is the list of dli approved colleges in canada.For international students, choosing a school can involve considering the location. Think about which province or city best suits your lifestyle preferences. Additionally, all Canadian colleges and universities have a DLI number. This unique identifier verifies their legitimacy on the official DLI list.

  • University of Alberta
  • University of Toronto
  • Simon Fraser University
  • University of Calgary 
  • Dalhousie University
  • University of Manitoba
  • Centennial College
  • Alexander College
  • Bow Valley College 
  • Georgian College 
  • Algonquin College
  • NorQuest College
  • Camosun College
  • Canadian College of English Language
  • Cambrian College
  • George Brown College

Approved DLIs in British Columbia

DLI Universities in Canada

DLI in Canada City

DLI Number

University of British Columbia

Vancouver

O19330231062

Simon Fraser University

Burnaby

O18781994282

Langara College

Vancouver

O19319074622

Vancouver Island University

Nanaimo

O19395299688

Capilano University

North Vancouver, Sechelt

O19280078102

Columbia College

Vancouver

O19279591302

Camosun College

Victoria

O19361235542

Canadian College of English Language

Vancouver

O19352470312

Approved Designated Learning Institution in Montreal

DLI colleges in Canada

DLI in Canada City

DLI Number

McGill University

Montreal

O19359011033

Cégep de Maisonneuve

Montreal

O19359201705

Université de Montréal

Montreal

O19359011045

Collège Dawson

Montreal

O19359201433

Concordia University

Montreal

O19359011007

Approved List of DLI Colleges in Canada Ontario

DLI approved colleges in ontario canada

DLI in Canada City

DLI Number

University of Toronto

Toronto

O19332746152

Western University

London

O19375892122

University of Waterloo

Waterloo

O19305471522

Centennial College

Toronto

O19394700003

Sheridan College

Mississauga

O19385946782

Cambrian College

Sudbury/Brampton

O19394699409

George Brown College

Toronto

O19283850612

Algonquin College

Ottawa/Pembroke/Perth

O19358971022

Approved DLIs in Alberta

DLI Universities in Canada

DLI in Canada City

DLI Number

University of Alberta

Edmonton/Camrose

O19257171832

University of Calgary

Calgary

O18886830282

Ambrose University

Calgary

O18713147522

Mount Royal University

Calgary

O18761482032

Lakeland College

Lloydminster/Vermillion

O18777577472

NorQuest College

Edmonton/Drayton Valley/Stony Plain/Westlock/Wetaskiwin/Whitecourt

O18795996622

What is DLI Number in Canada?

A Designated Learning Institution Number indicates that an institution in Canada is authorised to accept international students, a crucial step for obtaining a study permit.

For those aiming to work in Canada post-graduation, it's important to attend a DLI-listed university in Canada that offers PGWP-eligible programmes in Canada. This eligibility is key for applying to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Programme, enabling graduates to gain work experience in Canada.

Students interested in Ontario should consult the list of DLI colleges in Canada Ontario. This list provides approved educational options within the province, aligning your studies with future career opportunities in Canada.

How to Change the DLI Number? 

Here are a few steps to change the Designated Learning Institute (DLI) number.

To change your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) number, follow these steps:

  • Gather Your Documents: Make sure you have these on hand:
  • A copy of your study permit.
  • Acceptance letter from your current DLI institution in Canada
  • Acceptance letter and DLI number from the institution you wish to transfer to.
  • Log into  MyCIC Account (Online application tool for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)).
  • Initiate the Application: Click on the "Start an application" link and choose "Students: Transfer Schools."
  • Provide Application Number: Enter your application number in the provided box.
  • Complete Application Details: You'll be directed to the "Tell us about your application" page. Fill in all required information and click "Continue. 
  • Search for Your Application: Select the "Search for my application" option.
  • Enter New DLI Number: Input the DLI number of the new institution in Canada.
  • Submit Transfer: Click "Submit transfer" to finalise the process. 


 If you need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to AECC consultants.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada?

A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada is an educational institution approved by the government to host international students.