Designated Learning Institutions in Canada

For international students planning to study in Canada, a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. Getting a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from an approved DLI is mandatory for a Canadian Study Permit. Each post-secondary DLI also has a unique DLI Number beginning with “O,” which is required on the study permit application.

Some of the DLIs in Canada include universities such as University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, York University, and McMaster University, along with public colleges such as Fanshawe College, George Brown College, Seneca Polytechnic, and Centennial College. Other options include private career colleges, language schools, primary and secondary schools, and CÉGEPs in Quebec.

This article gives you a simple guide to the list of Designated Learning Institutions in Canada, including the different types of DLIs, programs offered, tuition fees, and how to choose the right institution. It also explains the application process, and other important things international students should check before applying.

Types of Designated Learning Institutions in Canada

In Canada, there are four types of Designated Learning schools in Canada. The selection process depends upon the courses you choose and what you want to do after completing your studies.

Here is the list of Designated Learning Institutions in Canada for international students according to their kinds.

Universities

If you want to study a course in depth and gain a degree, universities are a leading choice for you. 

Examples: 

• University of Toronto
• University of Waterloo
• York University
• Toronto Metropolitan University
• McMaster University
• Queen's University

Public Colleges

If you desire to learn some skills that you can use for a job, then these public colleges can be an affordable choice. 

These include 

• Fanshawe College
• George Brown College
• Seneca Polytechnic
• Centennial College

Private Career Colleges (PCCs)

These colleges are privately operated institutions that deliver vocational and shorter courses. 

Examples: 

• triOS College
• Sprott Shaw College
• Herzing College
• ABM College of Business and Technology
• Access Business College

Language Schools

Provide students with opportunities to strengthen their English or French proficiency for academic, professional, and everyday communication.

For example,

• ILSC Language Schools
• Kaplan International Languages 
• Language Studies International (LSI) 
• Bayswater Vancouver

Primary and Secondary Schools

These schools offer primary and secondary schooling to children and young people.

Schools such as:

• Toronto District School Board (TDSB) 
• Vancouver School Board (VSB)
• Calgary Board of Education (CBE) 
• Bodwell High School Columbia International College

CÉGEPs (Quebec Only) 

In Quebec, there are special colleges called "colleges d'enseignement général des arts et des techniques" or “CÉGEPs.” They offer post secondary education and can also train students to enter university or a career.

Examples: 

• Dawson College
• Vanier College
• John Abbott College
• Cégep de Sainte-Foy
• Cégep du Vieux Montréal

This is why students should check the official list of designated learning institutes in Canada and then check the exact program.

Also Read: Top MBA Universities & Colleges in Canada

Programs Offered by Designated Learning Institutions in Canada

Canada has different types of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), and each offers different types of programs.

International students can choose from bachelors and masters degrees, diplomas, certificates, vocational courses and language programs. The course length also depends on the institution and program. 

The table below gives a simple overview of the programs offered by DLIs in Canada and their usual duration.

Institution Type	Programs Offered
Universities (Public)	Bachelors Degree (3-4 years);  Masters Degree (1-2 years);  Doctoral Degree (3-6 years); Professional Degrees (3-4 years)
Public Colleges & CÉGEPs	Certificates; Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas (Less than 1 year); Post-Graduate Certificates (2-3 years); Applied Bachelors Degrees (4 years)
Private Career Colleges (PCCs)	Vocational Diplomas (6-12 months); Technical Certificates (Weeks to months); Micro-credentials (Varies)
Language Schools	Language Certificates (Weeks to months); Academic Pathway Programs (About 2-6 months)
Primary & Secondary Schools	Elementary Education (Kindergarten to Grade 8); Provincial High School Diploma (Grades 9-12)

Fees at Designated Learning Institutions in Canada

Cost of DLIs in Canada can be very different depending on the type of institution and the program you choose. Universities usually have higher fees, while public colleges and other institutions can offer more affordable options. The province and city you choose can also affect the cost. 

The table below gives an approximate idea of the annual tuition fees for international students at different types of DLIs in Canada.

Institution Type	Approximate Annual Tuition Fee
Public Universities	CAD 15,000-60,000+ (INR 10.37-41.48 lakh+)
Public Colleges	CAD 7,000-22,000 (INR 4.84-15.21 lakh)
Private Career Colleges (PCCs)	CAD 10,000-25,000 (INR 6.91-17.29 lakh)
Language Schools	CAD 340-425 per week (INR 23,508-29,385 per week)
Primary & Secondary Schools (K-12)	Public: CAD 10,000-17,000 (INR 6.91-11.75 lakh) Private Day: CAD 15,000-30,000 (INR 10.37-20.74 lakh) Private Boarding: CAD 63,000-83,000 (INR 43.56-57.40 lakh)
CÉGEPs (Quebec)	CAD 12,000-20,000 (INR 8.30-13.83 lakh)

Note: These are approximate figures. Tuition fees can vary based on the institution, program, study level and province.

Suggested Read: Cheapest University in Canada

How to Choose the Right DLI in Canada?

Choosing the right Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada is an important step for international students. Your choice can affect your studies, budget, job options and plans to stay in Canada after graduation. 

Here are some simple things to check before choosing and making a list of Designated Learning Institutions in Canada.

1. Check PGWP Eligibility

Prior to moving to Canada after your studies, make sure you're eligible for PGWP.

• All DLIs do not have programs that are eligible for the PGWP. 
• Not all programs offered by eligible DLI's are eligible for a PGWP. 
• Please consult the official DLI List for the schools offering PGWP eligible programs.

If applicable, review the requirements of the specific program, e.g. language requirements and/or field of study requirements.

2. Choose a DLI Based on Your Career Goal

Think about what you want to do after your studies.

• Choose a university: If you want a degree and like studying or working in an academic field like engineering, business, medicine or law. 
• Select a public college or CÉGEP if: You like to learn by doing and you are looking to develop transferable skills, including in the skilled trades, IT or design or in a health field. 
• Do consider private career colleges if: You are looking for shorter and more specific training and don't require a PGWP for your next steps.

3. Consider the Location

The city or province you choose can affect your living costs and job opportunities.

• Big cities: Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal have many jobs, companies and networking opportunities, but rent and other living costs are usually higher.
• Smaller cities and regional areas: These can be more affordable and may have good job opportunities in areas where workers are needed.

Also check the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) rules of the province if you plan to apply for permanent residence later.

4. Calculate the Total Cost

Do not look at tuition fees alone. Calculate the full cost of studying and living in Canada.

Consider:

• Tuition fees
• Rent and accommodation
• Food
• Health insurance
• Creating books and study materials
• Transportation
• Other daily expenses

The minimum amount required for living expenses for a single study permit applicant outside Quebec is CAD 22,895 (approximately INR 15.83 lakh), separate from tuition and travel costs. Always check the latest Government of Canada requirements before applying.

5.Review Internship and Student Support

It's also a good DLI to prepare for a career.

Look for:

• Co-op programs
• Internships or work placements
• Career support
• Job fairs
• Resume and interview help
• International student support
• Housing guidance

A co-op or internship can give you useful work experience while you study but make sure you understand the work permit rules that apply to your situation.

6. Think About Your PR Plans

For those wanting to stay in Canada on a permanent basis, consider your long term plans when selecting a DLI. 

Many of the options for immigration are determined by your province, program, work experience, and more. In some provinces, there could be streams for graduates who are needed for certain occupations. 

Avoid selecting a school only for opportunities in PR. Before you decide to make the move, keep an eye on the latest requirements in PNP and federal immigration rules.

How to Apply to a Designated Learning Institution in Canada?

Applying to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada takes a few simple steps. First, you need to get admission to a DLI. Once the necessary paperwork is received from the institution, you will be able to apply for your Canadian study permit.

Here is the step-by-step procedure for applying at DLIs in Canada:

1. Check the Admission and Language Requirements

First, check what your chosen DLI and program require.

You may need:

• Academic certificates and transcripts
• A valid passport
• English or French language test scores
• A resume, if required
• An SOP or study plan, if required (you may refer to this statement of purpose format for detailed guidance)
• Other documents asked for by the institution

Some colleges and universities in Canada will accept English language proficiency exams like IELTS Academic, PTE and TOEFL iBT. Specific requirements for score may vary from school to school and program to program, please see the official DLI website. 

An assessment or other evidence that your previous qualification meets the institution's requirements may be required for some postgraduate programs.

2. Choose Your Intake and Apply

There are different intakes in Canada during the year.

• Fall Intake (September): This is the primary intake, typically offering the greatest number of program options. 
• Winter Intake (January): This intake offers fewer choices of programs. 
• Spring/Summer Intake (May): Selected schools with programs. 

Apply early as some of the best programs fill up quickly. 

You can apply through:

• The DLI's official website
• A provincial application portal, where applicable
• University or college application systems

You may also have to pay a non-refundable application fee. The amount depends on the institution.

3. Get Your Letter of Acceptance

If your application is accepted, the DLI will send you a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). The LOA is proof that you've been accepted into the program. 

Please save this document as you will need to use it for your study permit application. A conditional offer may be made to some students. 

With this, you'll need to finish the rest of the requirements before you begin your course.

4. Pay the Required Tuition

Some DLIs ask international students to pay a tuition deposit after receiving an offer.

The amount can be different for every school and program. Some institutions may ask for a part of the tuition, while others may require a larger payment.

After making the payment, keep your official tuition receipt.

5. Get a PAL or TAL, If Required

Most students need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) when applying for a study permit.

Your DLI will usually give you instructions on how to get this letter after you accept your offer.

Not every student needs a PAL or TAL, so check the latest Government of Canada rules for your situation.

6. Show Proof of Funds

You need to show that you have enough money to pay for your studies and living costs in Canada.

Your proof of funds may include:

• Tuition payment receipts
• Bank statements
• Scholarship letters
• Education loans
• Other accepted financial documents

7. Apply for Your Study Permit

Once you have the documents you need, you can apply for your Canadian study permit through the official IRCC system.

Depending on your situation, you may need:

• Letter of Acceptance
• PAL/TAL, if required
• Proof of funds
• Valid passport
• Tuition payment receipt
• Language test results, if required
• Study plan or letter of explanation
• Biometrics
• Medical examination, if required

Make sure all information in your application is correct and matches your DLI and program details.

8. Prepare to Travel to Canada

After your study permit application is approved, you can start preparing for your studies.

Before travelling, arrange:

• Accommodation
• Flight tickets
• Health insurance, if needed
• Money for your first few weeks
• Important academic and immigration documents

Important: Please be aware that the rules for admission, PAL/TAL and proof of funds may vary. Be sure to review the most up-to-date information from the DLI of your choice and the Government of Canada prior to applying.