Canada is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking a high-quality education and diverse cultural experience. In 2023, Canada set a new record for immigration by welcoming 1,028,850 in 2023, a 27% increase over 2022, to its shores. To host these students, Canada has a network of Designated learning institutions (DLI) allowed to accept international students. An acceptance letter from a DLI is required to apply for a study permit. This article focuses on the DLI-approved colleges in Canada – meaning, significance for international students, how to find the DLI number, etc.
Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) are colleges, universities, and other educational institutions that the Canadian government or province has approved to admit international students. These institutions have met specific criteria and requirements, such as being recognized by a provincial or territorial government as an educational institution and having adequate policies and procedures to support international students. DLIs play an important role in Canada's education system and provide a pathway for international students to study in Canada.
Reasons to Choose DLI Colleges in Canada
Here are five reasons why international students should choose to attend a DLI-approved college in Canada:
Quality education
Canadian colleges and universities are known for their academic excellence, innovative research, and modern facilities. DLI-approved colleges in Canada are recognized worldwide. Only these are allowed to admit international students in Canada.
Work opportunities
International students pursuing programs at DLIs can work part-time on or off campus while studying. This allows them to gain valuable work experience and earn income to support their studies. They can also qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), enabling them to stay in Canada for employment opportunities after completing their program.
Pathway to permanent residency
Many international students choose to study at a DLI-approved college in Canada as a pathway to permanent residency. Canadian immigration policies favor international students, and many provinces have programs that allow graduates to stay and work in Canada after graduation.
Multicultural environment
Canada is a diverse and multicultural country that welcomes people from all over the world. International students at DLI-approved colleges in Canada have the opportunity to interact with people from different cultures, learn new languages, and broaden their perspectives.
Safe and welcoming country
Canada is known for being a safe and welcoming country. The Canadian government provides support services for international students, including healthcare, housing, and counseling.
What is the DLI number in Canada
The DLI number is a unique number the Canadian government assigns to each Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. It is a six-digit number starting with the letter "O" followed by a series of numbers. The DLI number is used by international students when applying for a study permit to attend a DLI in Canada. The Canadian government also uses it to track and monitor international students who are studying in Canada.
How to Find the DLI Number for Your Institution
You can find your institution's DLI number on the official Canadian government website- https://www.canada.ca. Choose ‘Immigration and Citizenship’ from the menu, and select ‘Study’. Next, click on ‘Find a school (designated learning institution)’. Follow the below steps to find the DLI number of your selected institution.
Choose your province or territory.
Enter your institution's name or city to filter out its DLI number from the list.
Note down the DLI number displayed on the screen.
List of DLI Approved Colleges in Canada
DLI-Approved Colleges in British Columbia
Institution Name
DLI Number
City
Popular Programs
University of British Columbia
O19330231062
Vancouver
Business, Engineering, Sciences
Simon Fraser University
O18781994282
Burnaby
Arts, Sciences, Business
Langara College
O19319074622
Vancouver
Arts, Sciences, Business
Vancouver Island University
O19395299688
Nanaimo
Arts, Sciences, Business
Okanagan College
O19395299488
Kelowna
Business, Engineering, Sciences
DLI-Approved Colleges in Alberta
Institution Name
DLI Number
City
Popular Programs
University of Alberta
O19257171832
Edmonton
Business, Engineering, Sciences
University of Calgary
O18886830282
Calgary
Arts, Sciences, Business
MacEwan University
O19092022262
Edmonton
Arts, Business, Sciences
Bow Valley College
O19273769422
Calgary
Business, Health, Trades
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
O18713200642
Edmonton
Engineering, Health, Trades
DLI-Approved Colleges in Montreal(Quebec)
Institution Name
DLI Number
City
Popular Programs
McGill University
O19359011033
Montreal
Arts, Sciences, Business
Universite de Montreal
O19359011045
Montreal
Arts, Sciences, Business
Concordia University
O19073475522
Montreal
Arts, Sciences, Business
Dawson College
O19359201433
Montreal
Arts, Sciences, Technology
Cegep de Maisonneuve
O19359201705
Montreal
Arts, Sciences, Technology
DLI-Approved Colleges in Ontario
Institution Name
DLI Number
City
Popular Programs
University of Toronto
O19332746152
Toronto
Arts, Sciences, Business, Engineering
University of Waterloo
O19305471522
Waterloo
Engineering, Sciences, Business
Western University
O19375892122
London
Arts, Sciences, Business, Engineering
Centennial College
O19394700003
Toronto
Business, Engineering, Technology
Sheridan College
O19385946782
Oakville
Arts, Sciences, Technology
Conclusion
Choosing a DLI-approved college in Canada is wise for international students looking to gain quality education, work while studying, and pursue a pathway to permanent residency in Canada. We hope students can easily find the DLI number for their institution to enter into their study permits using the information in this article.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?
A DLI is an educational institution approved by the Canadian government to accept international students. DLIs have met specific criteria and requirements required by the government to ensure they offer quality education and support services to international students.
Why are DLIs important for international students?
DLIs offer many benefits to international students, including the ability to work while studying, eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, and a pathway to permanent residency in Canada.
What is the pass rate of DLI?
The pass rate for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada varies depending on the institution and program of study. DLIs are held to exhibit high global academic standards.
Can I work while studying at a DLI in Canada?
International students studying at a DLI can work part-time on or off-campus while they study. However, students must meet certain requirements the Canadian government sets.
Can I change DLI after coming to Canada?
If your study permit has been approved and you decide to change your DLI afterward, you will have to submit a new study permit application with a new letter of acceptance.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.
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