Changes in Studies
Changes in your studies may impact academic progression; which may result in impacts to your status as a student in Canada; study permit application and/or post-graduation open work permit (PGWP) eligibility.
Changing your studies
Below are some scenarios to be aware of when contemplating changes in your academic progression or studies.
Deferral of Studies
In some cases, a deferral is an option. You must contact your program advisor for details on deferrals; ISS does not process deferral requests.
Leave of Absence
If you need to take a temporary pause during your academic program, you may apply for a leave of absence. A leave of absence may be granted for reasons including: bereavement, paternity leave, medical requirements, physical or mental wellbeing, military service, or political service.
Course Withdrawal
The number of units/courses you take determines your enrollment status as a full-time or part-time student. Withdrawing from a course(s) may impact your enrollment status.
Changing your Designated Learning Institution
UPDATE: Effective November 8th, 2024, if you have started or completed your program at UCalgary and have decided to transfer to another designated learning institution (DLI); you will need to apply for a new study permit to study at a new DLI prior to the start of your new program.
You will need to include:
- a letter explaining the reason you are changing schools
In order to start your program at your new DLI you must have a study permit approval or meet certain criteria.
Please refer to the link on How to change post-secondary institutions.
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Application in Progress
Application in Progress
If your application is still in progress with the IRCC and a final decision has not been made; then you can update your application by providing the IRCC with:
- your letter of admission for UCalgary;
- updated financials, if necessary
- updated study plan that addresses the change in program and designated learning institution
- updated a provincial attestation letter (PAL) - (if needed)
An update can be provided to the IRCC via webform at the following links:
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Final Decision Finalized
If your application has been approved by the IRCC based on a letter of admission for another designated learning institution (DLI) and you are outside of Canada; you must submit a new study permit application to attend UCalgary. You will need to submit a new study permit application with your admission letter for UCalgary along with all required documents.
*Please do not travel to Canada until your application has been approved.
Students Inside of Canada
UPDATE: Effective November 8th, 2024, if you have started or completed your program at UCalgary and have decided to transfer to another designated learning institution (DLI); you will need to apply for a new study permit to study at a new DLI prior to the start of your new program.
You will need to include:
- a letter explaining the reason you are changing schools
In order to start your program at your new DLI you must have a study permit approval or meet certain criteria.
Please refer to the link on How to change post-secondary institutions.
Students Outside of Canada
Application in Progress
If your application is still in progress with the IRCC and a final decision has not been made; then you can update your application by providing the IRCC with:
- your letter of admission for UCalgary;
- updated financials, if necessary
- updated study plan that addresses the change in program and designated learning institution
- updated a provincial attestation letter (PAL) - (if needed)
An update can be provided to the IRCC via webform at the following links:
Final Decision Rendered
If your application has been approved by the IRCC based on a letter of admission for another designated learning institution (DLI) and you are outside of Canada; you must submit a new study permit application to attend UCalgary. You will need to submit a new study permit application with your admission letter for UCalgary along with all required documents.
*Please do not travel to Canada until your application has been approved.