As an international student in Canada, you may find that the course or program you initially selected no longer aligns with your academic or career goals.
Whether it’s a change in your interests, a realization that another field offers better prospects, or simply a desire to pursue a different path, switching programs or colleges in Canada is not uncommon.
However, it’s essential to understand the process, potential impacts on your student visa and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), and the circumstances in which changing programs is advisable.
Today we will guide you through the steps and provide detailed information to help you make an informed decision if you decide to change your course as an international student in Canada.
What is the Procedure to Change Program and College?
Changing your course or college in Canada involves several steps, and it’s important to follow them carefully to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the procedure:
- Research Your New Program or College – Before making any changes, you need to do thorough research on the new program or institution you want to transfer to.
Consider factors like the curriculum, potential career prospects, program duration, and reputation of the college.
Make sure the institution you wish to transfer to is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), as your student visa is valid only if you’re enrolled in a DLI.
- Check Transfer Requirements – Every institution has different requirements for transferring students.
You must check the eligibility criteria for the new program or college, such as academic prerequisites, English language requirements, and transfer credits.
Contact the admissions office of your new institution to get all the necessary details.
- Apply for Admission to the New Program – Once you’ve identified a new course or institution, you’ll need to apply formally for admission.
Prepare your application documents, including transcripts, proof of previous education, and any other required materials.
If accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter from the new institution, which is crucial for the next steps in changing your course.
- Notify Your Current Institution – If you’re switching programs within the same college, you’ll need to notify the administration and request a formal change.
If you are transferring to a different institution, it’s essential to inform your current college that you’re planning to withdraw.
Some colleges may have deadlines for withdrawal or processes to follow, so be sure to handle this part carefully.
- Update Your Study Permit – If you’re changing your college, you must inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Log into your IRCC account and update your DLI number with the new institution’s information. Remember, failing to do this can jeopardize your visa status.
If you are changing programs within the same institution, you may not need to update your study permit as long as your study period and level of education remain the same.
- Obtain a New Letter of Acceptance – For those switching to a new institution, you will need the offer letter from your new college to update your study permit.
This document proves that you are enrolled in a recognized program and institution.
- Apply for Credit Transfers (if applicable) – Depending on the similarity of your previous course and the one you’re switching to, you may be eligible for credit transfers.
Contact both your current and new institution to ensure that any applicable credits are transferred.
- Financial Considerations – Ensure that you have accounted for tuition fees at your new institution and any potential differences in living expenses.
Some provinces and programs have higher tuition, and you may need to adjust your financial plans accordingly.
Effects of Changing Course on Visa and PGWP
Switching your program or institution can have significant effects on your study permit, visa status, and eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
The following points will provide you some but remember to check the official websites and resources for updated information:
- Study Permit Validity – Your study permit is directly linked to your enrollment in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
If you change schools or programs, it’s essential that your new institution is also a DLI. Always update your DLI number when transferring to a new institution.
Failure to notify IRCC of your change could result in your study permit becoming invalid, potentially leading to deportation or removal from Canada.
- Impact on PGWP Eligibility – The PGWP allows international students to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
To qualify, you must complete your program from a DLI and meet specific conditions. Switching courses or institutions can impact your eligibility for the PGWP.
For example, if your total period of study becomes shorter due to the switch, or if you move to a non-eligible program, you may lose the chance to obtain a PGWP.
Be cautious of switching to a program with a shorter duration than your original course, as this can reduce the length of the work permit you receive after graduation.
- Visa Renewals or Extensions – Changing your course may require you to extend your study permit if the new program has a longer duration than your initial course.
Ensure that your study permit covers the entire duration of your new program. Apply for an extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires.
- Study Permit Conditions – Ensure that your study permit allows you to change institutions or programs.
Some permits come with restrictions based on your initial application. If your permit has conditions, you may need to apply for a new study permit to accommodate the change.
Conditions When it is Okay to Switch Program
Changing your program or institution can be a wise decision in some circumstances, and Canadian immigration regulations allow it under certain conditions.
Below mentioned are the situations where switching programs may be justifiable:
- Mismatch in Interests or Career Goals – If you realize that the program you initially selected does not align with your long-term career goals or passions, it is reasonable to change courses.
Pursuing a program that suits your interests will lead to better academic performance and future success.
- Academic Difficulties – If you are struggling to meet the academic requirements of your current course, switching to a program that better matches your strengths could improve your grades and overall experience in Canada.
Universities and colleges want to see students succeed, so they often support course changes in such cases.
- Better Job Prospects – You might find that another field or industry offers better job opportunities, both in Canada and internationally.
In this case, switching to a program that opens up better career prospects is a practical decision.
For example, shifting from an arts program to a technical field like IT or business may be more beneficial in the long run.
- Personal or Health Reasons – Sometimes personal circumstances or health issues can make it difficult to continue your current program.
In such cases, switching to a less demanding or more flexible program can help you manage your situation while continuing your education.
- Institutional Reputation or Facilities – If the new institution offers better facilities, higher rankings, or more support for international students, it might be worth considering a transfer.
You want to study in an environment that supports your academic growth and career development.
Conclusion
Changing your course as an international student in Canada is possible but requires careful planning and adherence to immigration guidelines.
It is only by following the proper procedures, considering the impact on your visa and PGWP, and ensuring the switch aligns with your academic and career goals that you can make a smooth transition.
Always keep in touch with your current and future institution, as well as IRCC, to ensure you maintain legal status and eligibility for future opportunities in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I change my course after getting a visa in Canada?
Yes, you can change your course after receiving a visa, but you must ensure that the new course is offered by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) about the change.
- Can I change my course as an international student?
Yes, international students can change their course in Canada, provided they follow the necessary steps, including updating their study permit if required and ensuring the new program meets immigration requirements.
- Can I change my program after admission in Canada?
You can change your program after admission, but you must meet the academic and administrative requirements of the new program and inform both your institution and IRCC if it involves switching institutions.
- Is it easy to change a program in Canada?
Changing programs is possible but not always easy, as it depends on the requirements of the new program, the availability of spaces, and the need to update immigration documents.
- Can I change my course as an international student in Canada?
Yes, you can change your course as an international student, but you must ensure that the new course aligns with immigration regulations, including maintaining enrollment at a DLI.
- Can we change course after 1st semester?
Yes, you can change your course after the first semester, but you should consult your institution and update your study permit if necessary to avoid any immigration issues.
