DLI List: Designated Learning Institutions and Their Role in PGWP Eligibility

As provided in the IRCC website, the DLI list refers to a directory of accredited schools for international students that have been approved by the provincial or territorial government. It’s important to note that not all DLIs and programs of study translate to complete PGWP eligibility; you must also qualify for other criteria. If you study at a school that isn’t on the DLI list, you won't be able to use that time towards applying for a study permit in Canada. 

While studying at a DLI is mandatory to obtain a study permit, there are other criteria that need to be taken into consideration to qualify for your PGWP. They include:  

• You must complete a program of study at a DLI that meets specific PGWP requirements, especially under the new Field of Study Requirements. As of November 1, 2024, specific programs outside of a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree from a university have additional criteria to meet. The IRCC has this table to help you determine if your program has to meet these field of study requirements.  

• Your program must be full-time and at least 8 months long. You may also combine ​​multiple shorter programs, but they must each be 8-months long. For more information on eligibility requirements based on study program, visit this IRCC page. 

• Some private DLIs and other types of institutions might not qualify, so it's essential to confirm eligibility. Otherwise you will sacrifice valuable time to gain work experience here, which is a direct pathway to gaining permanent residency. 

1. Visit the Government of Canada’s DLI List: Use the Government of Canada's DLI list to verify if your school is an approved DLI and if your program is PGWP-eligible.  

2. Confirm with the Institution: Contact the DLI directly to verify whether your intended program qualifies for the PGWP or if there are other details to keep in mind for eligibility.  

3. Review Your Program Details and Study Plans: Double check the details of your programs for any following future studies. Make sure it is full-time and meets other PGWP eligibility requirements. Remember that your time studying has to be at least 8 months to qualify for a PGWP. To ​​maximize your PGWP duration, you may want to combine programs so you may receive the maximum 3-year work permit.

• Private vs. Public Schools: Be cautious when selecting your school. Many public schools offer PGWP-eligible programs and are recognized and regulated by the Government of Canada. However, not all private institutions are DLIs. In fact, most are not accredited by the Government of Canada, which means your time studying will automatically be ineligible for a work permit.  

• Program Completion: Your PGWP application hinges on finishing your program. Make sure you complete it within the designated time or it may impact your eligibility. Some exceptions to this are approved leave of absences, in which case you will need to provide an official letter from your school in your application.  

• School Closure or Program Discontinuation: If your DLI is removed from the list or your program is discontinued, consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to understand how this may affect your eligibility. 

Need additional support on deciding what school and program is right for you? IDP Education’s expert counsellors are here to listen and provide guidance. Fill out the form to book your free call! 

If you complete your studies at a post-secondary school that isn’t a DLI, you are jeopardizing opportunities for you to gain work experience after graduation, which often prepares you with the necessary qualifications to meet immigration programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Not only does the PGWP provide time to build your career here, but it also allows you to explore what permanent residency in Canada will be like for you.  

Selecting the right DLI and program is one of the most critical decisions for international students planning to study and work in Canada. With these official resources and tips, you’re already on your way to PGWP-eligibility.  

When in doubt, consult with your institution or reach out to IDP Education’s expert counsellors for a free call. We’re here to help with any step of your international student journey, from choosing a program to applying for your PGWP. Fill in the form to book your consultation. 

Legal Disclaimer: IDP Education is not a registered migration consultant and does not provide immigration services or provide immigration advice. The contents of this page are for general information only and is based on information from the IRCC website, which you can access through: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html. Information can change from time to time. For the most up to date information visit the IRCC website. Advice on your immigration circumstances may need to be considered by a registered migration consultant for Canada. The information contained does not take into account your personal circumstances. The outcome of every immigration application is different. The likelihood of any particular outcome for your application is dependent upon the details of your submission alone.