Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Statutory definition
Regulation 220.1 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, SOR/2002-227, defines a "designated learning institution" as an institution that is designated under the laws of the province or territory in which it is located. IRCC maintains a list of DLIs on its website.
Explanation
Not every educational institution in Canada can accept international students — they must be designated. DLI status is assigned by provinces and territories and may be at the Post-secondary, Primary/Secondary, or other level. For PGWP eligibility, only DLIs that are public post-secondary institutions, or certain private institutions that meet IRCC criteria, qualify.
DLIs have compliance obligations — they must report enrolment and study permit compliance information to IRCC. Non-compliant DLIs may lose their DLI status, which affects current and future international students.
How this term is used
International students should verify that their intended institution is a DLI before applying for a study permit. For PGWP eligibility, students should also verify that the DLI is eligible for PGWP purposes, as not all DLIs grant PGWP-eligible programs. Private career colleges, religious institutions, and certain vocational programs may not qualify even if they hold DLI status.