Can I switch programs or schools while on a study permit in Canada?

Changing schools or programs while on a study permit is possible, but you need to be careful about how it affects your permit. Your study permit is not tied to a specific program in most cases, but the permit was approved based on the program and school you listed in your application. Making a significant change — such as transferring to a different DLI or switching to a substantially different field — may affect your permit's validity and your future PGWP eligibility.

PGWP eligibility in particular is affected by program changes: you generally need to complete the program you transferred into, and that program must be at an eligible DLI and be of sufficient length. Not all program changes preserve your eligibility for the PGWP.

Before switching schools or programs, review whether you need to update your immigration documents and how the change affects your post-graduation plans. An immigration lawyer can map out the consequences of a transfer before you commit.