• Study in Canada

DLI: List of Canadian Designated Learning Institutions

10663 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Sep 22,2023 05:23 PM IST

Learn why applying to a Designated Learning Institution is important for international students, how it affects the study permit and its benefits over the non-DLIs. This blog comprises the importance, benefits and Designated Learning Institution list that students can use to find the DLI number of the college of their interest.

Canada has become very popular among students who wish to pursue higher studies and give a kick-start to their careers. Canada also houses a large number of international students, which makes a student-friendly environment for Indian students as well. The country provides studying abroad at an affordable cost, along with many post-study work opportunities. However, it is essential to note that Canada hosts two types of educational institutions: Canadian Designated Learning Institutions and non- Designated Learning Institutions.

This blog comprises all the information related to Designated Learning Institutions and the list of the universities/ colleges that fall under the DLI category.

What are Designated Learning Institutions?

The Designated Learning Institutions are the educational institutions authorized by that territory or province to host international students. To apply for a study permit, students need to get an acceptance letter from the DLI. Students who wish to study in Canada must ensure that the institution of their interest falls under DLI to obtain their study permit.

There are some instructions that students pursuing post-graduation in Canada must know:

• Students need an acceptance letter from DLI to apply for a study permit.

• Post-graduate work permit eligible institutes can be checked through the Canadian government’s website. Students should be aware if they are qualified to work after graduation, as not every DLI and program makes students eligible for the post-graduation work permit program.

Why Choose DLI College in Canada?

Choosing a DLI college to study in Canada after 12th is very important, and here are five reasons why international students should choose to attend an approved college in Canada:

High-quality education: Only DLI colleges are approved to host international students, and their certificate is recognized worldwide. These colleges are also known for their academic excellence and teaching methods, which give students the exposure they need to perform well in real-world jobs.

Work opportunities: Some DLI colleges allow international students to work off campus, which enables students to gain valuable experience and qualify for a post-graduation work permit. The Post Graduate Work Permit further allows students to stay in Canada for employment opportunities after completing their program.

Multicultural environment: Canada has the most diverse cultures and welcomes international students with open arms. Students get to learn all kinds of traditions and languages and make friends with students from all around the world.

What is the DLI Number in Canada?

In Canada, every Designated Learning Institution has its own unique DLI number. This DLI number is provided by the Canadian government and consists of six digits starting with the letter “O” followed by a series of numbers.

How to Find Designated Learning Institutions by Province on Canada’s Official Website?

Students who wish to find the DLI number of their Designated Learning Institution can visit the official website of the Government of Canada and follow these three simple steps:

1. Choose the province/ territory of their institution

2. Add keywords such as the name of the college, city, etc.

3. Find the DLI number of the institution.

Students can then write this DLI number under the section Details of intended study in Canada on the study permit application.

Designated Learning Institution List

Mentioned below is the list of DLI which students can refer to, to find the DLI number of their education institution. For example, students who wish to search the DLI for universities in British Columbia they can search it in DLI approved colleges in British Columbia list.

DLI Approved Colleges in Alberta

Name of institution	Designated Learning Institution number	City
Bow Valley College	019273769422	Calgary
Concordia University of Edmonton	019073475522	Edmonton
Lakeland College	018777577472	Lloydminster
MacEwan University	019092022262	Edmonton
Medicine Hat College	018795445892	Brooks
NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology)	018713200642	Edmonton
University of Alberta	019257171832	Edmonton

DLI approved colleges in British Columbia

Name of institution	Designated Learning Institution number	City
British Columbia Institute of Technology	019330128542	Burnaby, North Vancouver, Richmond, Vancouver
Camosun College	019361235542	Victoria
Capilano University	019280078102	North Vancouver, Sechelt
Coast Mountain College	0110095977911	Prince Rupert, Smithers, Terrace
College of New Caledonia	019360977332	Prince George
College of the Rockies	019377233362	Cranbrook, Invermere
Columbia College	019279591302	Vancouver
Fairleigh Dickinson University (Vancouver)	019227134842	Vancouver
Justice Institute of British Columbia	019394941140	New Westminster

DLI approved colleges in Manitoba

Name of institution	Designated Learning Institution number	City
Assiniboine Community College	019201282282	Brandon
Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology	019391828428	Winnipeg
Red River College Polytechnic	019305836302	Winnipeg
Robertson College	0123079633257	Winnipeg
University of Winnipeg	019147986012	Winnipeg

DLI approved colleges in Ontario

Name of institution	Designated Learning Institution number	City
Algonquin College	019358971022	Ottawa
Brock University	019394569014	St. Catharines
Cambrian College of Applied Arts and Technology	019394699409	Sudbury
Canadore College of Applied Arts and Technology	019395535239	Parry Sound
Canadore College at Stanford International College of Business and Technology	019395535239	Mississauga

DLI approved colleges in Nova Scotia

Name of institution	Designated Learning Institution number	City
Acadia University	019391556792	Wolfville
Cape Breton University	019391556824	Sydney
Dalhousie University	019209939282	Halifax
Mount Saint Vincent University	019301947442	Halifax

To find the DLI number for a university in a different province territory, students can visit the official website of the Government of Canada and follow the steps mentioned before to find the DLI number of their institution.

Conclusion

Designated Learning Institution is a wise decision for international students who plan to gain quality education and work experience and eventually settle down with permanent residency in Canada. Getting admission to DLI can be hectic and stressful, but students can visit Canam Consultants for expert guidance and study tips during the preparation phase.

FAQ

What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?

The Designated Learning Institutions are the educational institutions authorized by that territory or province to host international students.

Why is it important for international students to choose DLI?

It is crucial to choose DLI only because students can only apply for a study permit if they have an acceptance letter from the DLI.

Is it possible to work while studying from a DLI?

Yes, many DLIs in Canada allow students to work part-time on or off campus while studying. However, students do need to meet the required criteria to work in Canada.

What to do if the college gets de-designated while a student is studying there?

In Case the college students are studying in get de-designated, students can continue their studies from that college till their study permit expires.

Is it possible to change DLI after coming to Canada?

If the student wants to change their DLI after their study permit has been approved, they must submit a new study permit application along with a new letter of acceptance.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Shorelight Group - The New School

New York, USA • 30 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 34000-56500 / year

Shorelight Group - Colby-Sawyer College

New Hampshire, USA • 21 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 15000-18026 / year

Whitireia and WelTec - Petone Campus

Wellington, New Zealand • 26 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 25000-28000 / year

Purdue University Northwest - Hammond Campus

Indiana, USA • 5 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 17000-18000 / year

University of South Wales - Glyntaff Campus

Wales, UK • 45 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 13000-14000 / year

University of New Haven

Connecticut, USA • 202 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 43400-43500 / year

Georgian College - Owen Sound Campus

Ontario, Canada • 10 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 14000-21500 / year

St. Clair College - One Riverside Drive

Ontario, Canada • 5 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 12000-30000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visit - Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), USA and UK

Study in UK, USA • University Visit

Ahmedabad • 12:30PM

In-Person Event

Study Abroad Application Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Ireland, France

Multiple Location • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Deakin University

Study in Australia • University Visit

Kolkata • 04:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

MS in Pharmacy in USA

Have you ever thought about what it takes to break into the world’s largest pharmaceutical market? Generating more than 46% of the global pharmaceut...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 05:33 PM IST • USA

PTE Accepted Universities in Australia

In recent years, PTE has emerged as one of the alternatives to IELTS to study abroad. Many top study-abroad destinations like USA, UK and New Zealand ...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 05:09 PM IST • PTE

Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Australia

One of the most asked questions by our Indian students is about the part-time jobs for international students in Australia. Indeed, a part-time job pl...

Updated on • Jul 17,2025 03:44 PM IST • Australia

STEM MBA in USA

STEM MBA may be an odd-sounding combination of courses, but it is fulfilling if pursued. The perfect blend of science and commerce adds to this progra...

Updated on • Jul 12,2025 04:02 PM IST • USA

Highest Paying Jobs in India

Indian parents expect their children to follow a set pattern of going to school, getting into a college and finally pursuing a job. But what are the h...

Updated on • Jul 11,2025 11:32 AM IST • Education

CPT vs OPT: Meaning, Difference, and How to Apply

The USA has always been a popular study destination among international students for its wide variety of courses and post-study work opportuniti...

Updated on • Jul 11,2025 10:40 AM IST • USA

Masters in Computer Science in UK: Top Colleges, Eligibility, Scholarships

The UK is an excellent choice to study a Masters in Computer Science. It is a home to world-renowned institutions offering a high standard of educatio...

Updated on • Jul 10,2025 11:29 AM IST • study in the UK

Highest Paying Jobs in the World

With super-advanced technologies like AI entering every field, the assumptions are high that the job roles that exist today won't exist after some yea...

Updated on • Jul 08,2025 01:40 PM IST • Study Abroad

MBA in Australia for Indian Students: Best Universities, Requirements, Scholarship, Courses, Jobs

Master of Business Administration (MBA) has always been a popular postgraduate degree for Indian students to pursue in order to gain advanced sk...

Updated on • Jul 08,2025 01:35 PM IST • Australia

Canada vs Australia: Which Country is Better for Indian Students in 2025?

Human life is filled with making choices every day. In 10th grade, we choose between arts and commerce, after 12th grade, the college, but those were ...

Updated on • Jul 07,2025 12:46 PM IST • Education

France vs Germany: Which Is Better for International Students?

In 2024, many vintage study destinations, including the Big 4, saw a drop in international enrolment, and this trend continues till this year. This le...

Updated on • Jun 30,2025 05:15 PM IST • Education

Top 10 Agricultural Universities in USA

Agriculture or farming is not merely the growing of crops or taking care of animals, but it’s the largest contributor (27%) to global employment. It...

Updated on • Jun 27,2025 05:25 PM IST • USA

Most In-Demand Future Careers in 2025

The world of work is changing faster than ever. Technology, climate change, aging populations, and space exploration are creating jobs we’ve never s...

Updated on • Jun 26,2025 04:41 PM IST • Education

How Much Do Nurses Make in the U.S.?

Do you also think, “How much is the salary of a nurse in the USA?”. If yes, then you are not alone. Being one of the noblest professions in the wo...

Updated on • Jun 23,2025 03:59 PM IST • USA

Study MBBS in the USA

There are innumerable professions, but a career in MBBS is respected and admired more than any other line of work. Many of us harbour a drea...

Updated on • Jun 21,2025 02:00 PM IST • USA

MBA in UK: Universities, Eligibility, Types, and Career Opportunities

Master of Business Administration from UK is a prestigious academic degree, especially when gained from the UK. Business schools in the UK are well kn...

Updated on • Jun 19,2025 04:09 PM IST • UK • study in the UK

Scholarships in France for Indian Students

Are you planning to study in France but are scared of the expensive tuition fees? But now there is no need to fear because you can take advantage of F...

Updated on • May 29,2025 05:22 PM IST • France

Intakes in Dubai for Indian Students

World-class universities, a multicultural environment and tax-free earnings are some of the benefits that attract Indian students to Dubai. However, i...

Updated on • May 27,2025 03:34 PM IST • Study in Dubai

France Student Visa 2025 – Requirements, Fees, Checklist & Application Process

Imagine this: Today is the day you will sit for your dream job interview. You practised all possible questions, wore formal attire, and collected all ...

Updated on • May 23,2025 03:36 PM IST • France

MBA in France for Indian Students in 2025

MBA is one of the most sought-after master’s programs worldwide. France is increasingly becoming popular as an overseas education destination. The r...

Updated on • May 22,2025 05:35 PM IST • France

DLI: List of Canadian Designated Learning Institutions

Table of Contents

What are Designated Learning Institutions?

Why Choose DLI College in Canada?

What is the DLI Number in Canada?

How to Find Designated Learning Institutions by Province on Canada’s Official Website?

Designated Learning Institution List

DLI Approved Colleges in Alberta

DLI approved colleges in British Columbia

DLI approved colleges in Manitoba

DLI approved colleges in Ontario

DLI approved colleges in Nova Scotia

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams