IRCC Releases New Study Permit Update for 2025: Key Changes for Students and DLIs
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued an important update to its study-permit instructions for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), introducing clearer guidelines for students transitioning between study levels and those enrolled in joint academic programs.
November 24, 2025 — Ottawa
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued an important update to its study-permit instructions for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), introducing clearer guidelines for students transitioning between study levels and those enrolled in joint academic programs.
Students Can Begin Post-Secondary Studies While Awaiting Permit Approval
IRCC now confirms that students moving from secondary to post-secondary programs may start their post-secondary studies, provided their new study permit application was submitted before the expiry of their current permit. This aims to prevent academic delays caused by processing times.
Key Benefit
Students no longer need to defer their post-secondary education while waiting for permit approval, ensuring smooth academic transitions without interruption.
New Rules for Joint Programs Issuing a Single Credential
Students enrolled in joint programs delivered by multiple institutions—but resulting in one credential—must now obtain:
- One provincial/territorial attestation letter, and
- One study permit, both tied to the DLI issuing the final credential.
The credential-granting institution must also issue an unconditional Letter of Acceptance (LOA), verify it with IRCC, and report compliance even while students are studying at partner DLIs.
What This Means for Students
This change simplifies the application process for students in collaborative or joint degree programs. Instead of navigating multiple attestation letters and study permits, students now need only one set of documents linked to the institution awarding the final credential.
This ensures clearer accountability and smoother transitions between partner institutions during the course of study.
System Clean-Up for Primary/Secondary Institutions
IRCC has removed the former instruction allowing officers to manually enter school-district names under the DLI field, simplifying data consistency and improving processing accuracy.
How M A Immigration Associates Inc. Helps You Succeed
As your trusted RCIC-led immigration service, we ensure:
- ✓Accurate study-permit applications
- ✓Correct LOA and attestation-letter handling
- ✓Guidance on joint programs and multi-institution pathways
- ✓Full support from admission to arrival in Canada
- ✓Zero errors that could delay your visa outcome
Whether you're a parent planning your child's education or a student preparing your future, we provide professional, compliant, and personalized guidance aligned with the latest 2025-2026 policies.