The confirmed undergraduate application deadlines for the Fall 2026 intake at top Canadian universities are as follows:
University of British Columbia (UBC): Application deadline is January 15, 2026, for Winter Session (September 2026 to April 2027).
McGill University: Application deadline is January 15, 2026, for Fall 2026 admission to various undergraduate programs.
University of Alberta: Application deadline is March 1, 2026, for most undergraduate programs for Fall 2026 admission.
Learning institutions in Canada include universities, colleges, and vocational schools officially approved to admit international students. These are called designated learning institutes in Canada (DLIs), and enrollment in one is mandatory to obtain a study permit. Canada is now home to over 1 million international students, and they represent 21.2% of all college and university enrollments, showing the country’s global pull in higher education.
For students looking at the top universities in Canada, the country offers strong options across STEM, business, arts, and healthcare. India is the leading source nation, with 26.8% of international studentsstudying in Canada from India alone. Most prefer fields like engineering, computer science, and management because of better career prospects.
This blog explores learning institutions in Canada in detail- their meaning, top choices across provinces, eligibility, tuition fees, scholarships, and the application process.
Learning Institutions in Canada: Meaning & Highlights
Designated learning institutes in Canada are officially approved institutions where international students can legally pursue academic programs. These include public universities, community colleges, and career-focused institutions across provinces.
Enrolment at a DLI is a legal requirement for obtaining a Canadian study permit. Beyond that, it also determines your access to work options, visa extensions, and permanent residency pathways.
Review the key features that define learning institutions in Canada and help you plan better.
Now start identifying the most well-known and preferred learning institutions in Canada across key provinces.
Learning Institutions in Canada: Top Choices
International students in Canada study across a wide range of institutions. 42% are enrolled in colleges, 40% in universities, 13% in K–12 schools, and 3% in language programs. Each type of designated learning institute in Canada offers different academic paths depending on your goals.
Start by exploring province-specific options that consistently attract international applicants.
Learning Institutions in Canada: British Columbia
British Columbia is a leading destination for international students. About 21% of international students in Canada choose British Columbia due to its strong academic reputation, job opportunities, and quality of life.
Each institution in this province that admits international students holds a unique Designated Learning Institution (DLI) number issued by the Canadian government. This number confirms the institution’s eligibility to enrol foreign students and is mandatory for your study permit application.
Explore the learning institutions in British Columbia that consistently attract students from around the globe.
Each institution brings unique strengths to students seeking to study in Canada. Now let’s move forward and explore DLIs from Alberta.
Learning Institutions in Canada: Alberta
Alberta is home to several major institutions known for research, applied training, and industry collaboration. Over 25,000 international students study in Alberta, choosing it for its affordability, quality programs, and diverse cities.
The table below lists each designated learning institute in Canada along with their top academic programs.
Want to study in a learning institute in Canada but in a different province than Alberta? Let’s explore the top options in Quebec.
Learning Institutions in Canada: Quebec
Quebec offers a mix of English and French-taught programs across its public and private institutions. Quebec holds approximately 13% of international students in Canada, with many enrolled in research universities, technical colleges, and applied training institutes. Each school listed here qualifies as a designated learning institute in Canada.
Take a look at the top learning institutions in Quebec known for strong academics and bilingual education.
These Quebec-based institutions give you access to both local industry and international research. Now, let’s move forward to Ontario province and explore its top DLIs.
Learning Institutions in Canada: Ontario
Ontario is the most popular province for international education. Ontario hosts about 50% of all international students in Canada, making it the top choice for global applicants. From research-intensive universities to applied learning colleges, each institution listed here is a designated learning institute in Canada.
The table below highlights each designated learning institute in Canada based in Ontario along with their most enrolled programs.
Now shift your focus to Nova Scotia, where smaller class sizes and specialised programs make it a growing choice among international students.
Learning Institutions in Canada: Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia offers a close-knit academic environment, high teaching standards, and growing research activity. More than 16,000 international students study in Nova Scotia, across both public universities and smaller liberal arts institutions. Each college and university listed below is a recognised designated learning institute in Canada.
Look into the most established learning institutions in Nova Scotia known for academic strength and personalised teaching.
These Nova Scotia institutions provide strong academic foundations in a student-friendly setting. Now understand what you must meet to apply to any designated learning institute in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria for Learning Institutions in Canada
To study at any designated learning institute in Canada, you must meet certain academic, language, and document-related requirements. Institutions expect at least an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band below 6.0, for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Get a clear picture of what you need before you begin your application.
Category
Requirements
Academic Requirements
Completion of Grade 12 or equivalent with a minimum average of 70% in core subjects.
Specific programs, like Medicine and MBA, may require higher averages or prerequisite courses.
Once you meet these conditions, you become eligible to apply for a seat at any learning institution across provinces.
Learning Institutions in Canada: Tuition Fees
As an international student, you must plan for tuition early since fee structures vary widely by institution and program type.
Public universities, like Trent University, tend to charge lower than private colleges, but professional degrees often cost more. Understanding the average cost of studying in Canada helps you budget better and avoid surprises.
Review the tuition range across top-ranked learning institutions in Canada before finalising your choices.
Institution
QS World Ranking 2025 2026
Average Tuition Fees
University of Toronto
25 29
~CAD 30K Per Year (INR 18.5L)
McGill University
29 27
~CAD 35K Per Year (INR 21.6L)
University of British Columbia
38 40
~CAD 45K to 65K For Full Course (INR 27.8L to 40.2L)
Note: The INR conversions are approximate and are subject to change.
Now take the next step and explore how you can reduce costs by applying for scholarships offered across learning institutions in Canada.
Scholarships for International Students in DLI Canada
Securing a seat at a designated learning institute in Canada can be financially demanding, but scholarship options can ease that burden. Universities offer fully funded scholarships in Canada that cover tuition for the entire course.
For example, McGill’s Major Entrance Scholarships can offer up to CAD 48K (INR 29.7L), renewed annually, based on academic performance.
International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) – UBC
Merit-based, renewable
Awarded to exceptional international students entering undergraduate programs.
Renewable for up to three additional years.
The number and level of scholarships vary annually.
Outstanding International Student Award (OIS) – UBC
Merit-based, one-time
One-time entrance scholarship for qualified students upon admission.
Award values range from CAD 10K to CAD 25K (INR 6.1L to 15.5L)
Major Entrance Scholarships – McGill University
Merit-based, renewable
Valued between CAD 12K (INR 7.4L) and CAD 48K (INR 29.7L), renewable annually.
For newly accepted, first-year undergraduate students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement.
University of Alberta International Admission Scholarship
Merit-based, one-time
Up to CAD 5K (INR 3.1L) awarded to students with superior academics attending high school in Canada on a study permit.
Automatically considered upon admission.
Now that you know how to reduce your tuition expenses, focus on completing your application the right way.
Learning Institutions in Canada: Application Process
Applying to a designated learning institute in Canada involves multiple steps, each with its own documents and deadlines. Missing a single requirement can delay your study permit or cancel your seat entirely.
To avoid costly delays, follow each step in the correct order using the guide below.
Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI):
Ensure the institution is listed as a DLI approved to host international students.
Obtain a Letter of Acceptance: Upon admission, the DLI will provide an official Letter of Acceptance, which is required for the study permit application.
Secure a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL):
Most provinces and territories require a PAL to confirm your acceptance and allocation within their study permit quota.
For studies in Quebec, obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) instead.
Prepare Financial Documentation: Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and return transportation.
Apply for a Study Permit:
Submit an online application through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
Include the Letter of Acceptance, PAL or CAQ, proof of financial support, and other required documents.
Provide Biometrics: After applying, you may be required to provide fingerprints and a photo.
Await Processing and Decision: Processing times vary; monitor your application status through your IRCC account.
Now see what makes learning institutions in Canada a preferred destination for students from across the globe.
Why Choose Learning Institutions in Canada?
Over CAD 22.3 billion is spent annually by international students, reflecting the scale and trust placed in Canada’s education system. With options for international internships, co-op programs, and work permits, students gain direct access to some of the most in-demand jobs.
Here’s how choosing a designated learning institute in Canada impacts your student life in Canada.
Globally Accepted Qualifications: Canada's colleges and universities, like the University of Calgary, offer globally recognized degrees and diplomas, ensuring that your qualifications are respected worldwide.
Career-Focused Co-op Programs: Canadian institutions, like the University of Toronto, provide a wide array of programs, including over 3,000 cooperative education (co-op) programs that combine academic studies with work experience.
Part-Time Work Options: International students in Canada can work part-time during their studies and full-time during scheduled breaks, allowing them to gain valuable work experience and offset living expenses.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Graduates from DLIs may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada for up to three years, providing a pathway to permanent residency.
Safe and Supportive Environment: Canada is renowned for its safety, political stability, and high quality of life, providing a secure environment for students to live and study.
Now see how upGrad helps simplify the process of studying at leading learning institutions in Canada.
How Can upGrad Help You Study in Learning Institutions in Canada?
Applying to a designated learning institute in Canada can be complex. It involves many decisions, like shortlisting universities, preparing documents, clearing language tests, and understanding visa steps. With expert guidance from upGrad, you can move through each stage with clarity and avoid errors that often delay applications or admissions.
Here’s how upGrad helps you access learning institutions in Canada with confidence:
University Shortlisting Based on Your Profile: upGrad matches your academic background, test scores, and career goals with the right Canadian universities and colleges that meet DLI status.
Program and Eligibility Guidance: You get detailed information on course requirements, GPA cutoffs, prerequisite subjects, and eligibility for programs across provinces.
English Language Test Support: Whether you're preparing for IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo, upGrad provides test-specific advice to help you meet minimum score requirements.
Scholarship Matching and Application Help: Learn how to apply for entrance awards like UBC’s IMES or McGill’s Major Entrance Scholarships and boost your chances of funding.
Visa Application Assistance: From collecting the Letter of Acceptance to applying for the PAL or CAQ and submitting documents to IRCC, upGrad guides you step by step.
Want to know if York University, Dalhousie, or UBC fits your academic plan? Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad experts to explore your options in learning institutions in Canada.
Conclusion
Canada’s learning institutions open doors to quality education, diverse cultures, and career-focused programs. Choosing the right DLI is the first step to building a strong future. With so many options, students can find programs that match their skills and goals.
Studying in Canada is more than just earning a degree. It is about growing personally, building global connections, and preparing for success anywhere in the world. With the right plan and mindset, your study journey in Canada can truly change your life.
FAQs
How can students verify if their institution is a DLI in Canada?
Students can confirm an institution’s DLI status through the official Government of Canada website, which provides an updated list of approved universities, colleges, and vocational schools that accept international students.
Do all DLIs in Canada offer the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
Not every DLI qualifies for PGWP. Students should check if their chosen institution and program are PGWP-eligible before applying, as this directly affects post-study work opportunities in Canada.
What types of programs do DLIs in Canada typically offer?
DLIs provide a wide range of programs, including undergraduate degrees, diplomas, postgraduate certificates, master’s programs, and vocational training across fields like engineering, business, healthcare, IT, and applied sciences.
Can international students transfer between DLIs in Canada?
Yes, students can transfer between DLIs, but they must notify Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) through their online account to maintain compliance with study permit requirements.
What happens if a student’s DLI loses its approval status?
If a DLI loses approval, international students can complete their current program but may not be eligible for a study permit extension or PGWP. Switching to another approved DLI is recommended.
Are private colleges in Canada also considered DLIs?
Yes, many private colleges are recognized as DLIs, but not all private institutions offer PGWP-eligible programs. Students must carefully review both recognition and work permit eligibility before enrolling.
How important is the DLI number when applying for a study permit?
The DLI number is mandatory in the study permit application. Without a valid DLI number, applications are rejected, making it a critical step for international students planning to study in Canada.
Can international students work part-time while enrolled in a DLI?
Students at DLIs are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks, provided they meet the conditions of their study permit.
Are DLIs in smaller Canadian cities as recognized as those in big cities?
Yes, DLIs in smaller cities are equally valid for study permits. They often provide lower living costs and smaller class sizes while maintaining recognition under Canada’s approved DLI framework.
Do DLIs in Canada offer scholarships for international students?
Many DLIs provide merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. These can range from partial tuition waivers to full funding, depending on the institution, program, and applicant’s academic profile.
How do DLIs in Canada support international students after arrival?
Most DLIs have international student offices offering orientation, academic support, career services, housing guidance, and cultural integration programs to help newcomers adjust smoothly to academic and campus life in Canada.
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...
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