For international students aspiring to study in Ontario for more than six months, securing a study permit and enrolling in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is mandatory. DLIs are post-secondary institutions in Ontario approved by the provincial government to host international students under the International Student Program (ISP), as stipulated by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations. This guide provides a detailed overview of DLIs, the designation process, and essential requirements for institutions in Ontario.
What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?
A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a post-secondary educational institution authorized by a provincial or territorial government to welcome international students under the International Student Program (ISP). This designation is crucial for institutions intending to enroll international students who require a study permit for programs lasting longer than six months. The DLI status ensures that these institutions meet specific standards set by the government to support international students and maintain the integrity of the ISP.
For postsecondary institutions in Ontario, designation under the ISP is essential. Institutions must meet stringent requirements to gain and maintain their DLI status. These requirements are designed to ensure a high-quality educational experience and adequate support systems for international students.
The ISP Designation Process for Postsecondary Institutions
Any postsecondary institution in Ontario, whether currently designated or not, is eligible to apply for DLI status. The designation process involves a thorough evaluation to ensure that the institution meets the necessary criteria.
To become a DLI, institutions must:
- Submit a complete Application for Designation: Institutions need to formally apply to the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, providing all required documentation and information.
- Meet Designation Requirements: Ontario must be satisfied that the institution fulfills all the requirements outlined in the official guidelines for designation.
Successful applicants will be required to enter into a legally binding Designation Agreement with the Minister of Colleges and Universities. Designation officially begins once this agreement is fully executed by both the institution and the province. This agreement specifies the duration of the designation, and institutions will cease to be designated upon its expiry.
It’s crucial to note that designation is site-specific. Institutions must specify each campus and branch location they wish to include in their designation application. The DLI status applies only to the locations explicitly listed in the Designation Agreement. To add a new campus or branch location later, designated institutions must apply for an amendment to their agreement and demonstrate compliance for the new site.
Only institutions with designated learning institution status are authorized to enroll international students who need a study permit for programs of six months or more.
Re-designation Application and Continuing Designation
For institutions seeking to maintain their DLI status, re-designation is necessary. If a designated institution submits a new complete Application for Designation before their current agreement expires, they will maintain Continuing Designation while awaiting a decision on their application. During this period, institutions must continue to adhere to the terms of their existing Designation Agreements.
However, if an institution fails to submit a re-designation application before the expiry date, or if their application is unsuccessful, their DLI status will be revoked. In such cases, Ontario will notify Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and the institution will be removed from the official list of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs).
Request for Reconsideration
Institutions that are not successful in their initial Designation application have the option to request a reconsideration. To do so, they must submit a written request within 30 days of receiving the notice of unsuccessful application. This request must clearly state the reasons for reconsideration and include any supporting documents that are relevant to the ISP requirements and address the reasons for the initial unsuccessful application.
Reconsideration requests are only considered if they present new information or explanations pertinent to the ISP Requirements. This process allows institutions to address any deficiencies in their initial application and provide further evidence of their eligibility for DLI status.
Key ISP Requirements for Designation
To achieve and maintain designated learning institution status, postsecondary institutions in Ontario must meet a comprehensive set of requirements. These are broadly categorized and cover various aspects of institutional operation and international student support.
Here are some key areas of ISP Requirements:
- Compliance with Legislation and Policies: Institutions must comply with all applicable Ontario legislation, including the Post-secondary Education Choice and Excellence Act (PSECEA) and the Ontario Career Colleges Act (OCCA), as well as policy directives from the Ministry and Superintendent of Career Colleges.
- Adherence to Federal Laws: Institutions must also be compliant with all relevant federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal legislation, particularly laws administered by the Canada Border Services Agency and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
- Integrity and Honesty: The institution and its leadership must demonstrate integrity and honesty in administering the ISP. This includes ensuring that no corporate director, officer, or controlling shareholder has a criminal record that could compromise the program’s integrity.
- Financial Capacity: Institutions must prove they have sufficient financial resources to deliver the programs and support services promised to international students. Private postsecondary institutions, in particular, need to demonstrate financial viability.
- Campus and Branch Location Standards: Campuses and branch locations must meet safety and suitability standards for delivering postsecondary education. Private institutions undergo inspections to ensure these standards are met.
- Student File Maintenance: Institutions are required to maintain detailed files for each international student, including enrolment records, academic assessments, and program completion documentation. These files must be kept for a minimum period and transcripts accessible for an extended period.
- Ethical Recruitment Practices: Recruitment practices, advertising, and promotional activities must be ethical and honest. Institutions must avoid misleading claims and guarantee of study permits or program completion.
- Program of Study Standards: Private postsecondary institutions must meet specific standards for their programs of study, including approvals and accreditations, especially for vocational and language training programs.
- Student Contracts: Private institutions must use comprehensive contracts with international students that clearly outline program details, fees, refund policies, and student rights and responsibilities.
- Admissions and Academic Policies: Written and easily understood admissions and academic policies must be in place and readily available to students. These policies should cover academic integrity, grading, appeals, withdrawals, and dismissals.
- Student Complaint Procedures: Institutions must have clear and accessible student complaint procedures. Private institutions, in particular, must have detailed processes that include written complaints, fair hearings, and documented decisions.
- Fee Refund Policy: A transparent and easily understood fee refund policy is essential. This policy must be consistent with ministry guidelines and clearly outline the circumstances under which refunds are provided.
- Student Support Services: Institutions must provide or facilitate access to a range of support services for international students. These include housing assistance, health insurance mechanisms, academic and career counseling, and links to community and cultural organizations.
- Enrolment Reporting: Institutions must designate personnel responsible for accurately reporting international student enrolment data to IRCC as required.
- Compliance History: Institutions with previous DLI status must demonstrate a history of compliance with their Designation Agreements. Past non-compliance can affect future designation unless it was minor, rectified, or did not prejudice student interests.
Conclusion
Becoming a Designated Learning Institution in Ontario is a significant undertaking that reflects an institution’s commitment to providing quality education and support to international students. The designation process is rigorous, ensuring that only institutions that meet high standards are authorized to host international students requiring study permits. For international students, choosing a DLI guarantees enrollment in an institution recognized by the government, ensuring a credible and supportive educational environment. This comprehensive framework strengthens Ontario’s position as a leading destination for international education, fostering a positive experience for students and maintaining the integrity of the International Student Program.
