Quick answer: a designated learning institution (DLI) is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. You need a letter of acceptance from a DLI to apply for a study permit.
Before you apply to any Canadian school, check that it’s a DLI. If it isn’t, you can’t use its acceptance letter for a study permit.
This guide is general information based on official sources. Your own requirements depend on your situation, and IRCC makes every decision, so check the official pages before you apply.
What makes a school a DLI
- Every primary and secondary school in Canada is automatically a DLI, though they aren’t listed.
- Post-secondary schools (universities, colleges, institutes and some private schools) must be approved, and they appear on IRCC’s official list.
- Each DLI has a unique DLI number, which you enter on your study permit application.
How to check if a school is a DLI
- Open IRCC’s designated learning institutions list.
- Choose the tab you need: all post-secondary DLIs, DLIs with PGWP-eligible programs, or public graduate programs exempt from the PAL.
- Pick the province or territory and search by school name or city.
- Write down the DLI number exactly as shown.
DLI doesn’t mean PGWP-eligible
This is one of the most expensive mistakes students make. Being a DLI only means the school can host international students. It doesn’t mean every program qualifies for a post-graduation work permit. Check the PGWP-eligible tab and the specific program before you enrol.
DLIs have obligations too
Post-secondary DLIs must verify letters of acceptance with IRCC and report on international students’ enrolment. Schools that don’t meet these obligations can be suspended from accepting international students. If a school loses its designation before you start, you can’t begin there and will need a new letter of acceptance.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find a school’s DLI number?
On IRCC’s DLI list, or on your letter of acceptance.
Are private colleges DLIs?
Some are. Check the list, and be careful with private colleges delivering public college programs under licensing agreements, which usually aren’t PGWP-eligible.
Do I need a DLI for a short course?
Courses of six months or less often don’t need a study permit at all. Check IRCC’s rules for your situation.