Have you recently started a program at a Canadian academic institution and realized that it isn’t meeting your expectations?
If so, you may feel worried or guilty, but don’t be. Change your program while studying in Canada is possible and easier than you think. The good news is that you can keep your study permit the same if you switch programs. Keep reading to learn about the steps to change your program while studying in Canada.
Before deciding, it’s essential to reflect on why you want to switch programs and what factors led to this decision. You may have discovered an interest in another field through your coursework or feel your current program could better fit you. Whatever your reasons, it’s crucial that they’re genuine and not based on temporary situations, such as scheduling conflicts or a dislike of a particular course.
Getting Ready for the Switch
Once you have decided to change your program, it is essential to prepare for the Switch by taking some necessary steps. You need to ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you want to continue studying at the same institution or change to another one?
- Can your credits be transferred to the new program?
- Is the new program eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
Sticking with the same institution is usually a safer choice, especially if they offer the program you are interested in. However, if you decide to switch to a different institution, there are other factors to consider, such as:
- Ensuring that the new institution is a Designated Learning Institution
- Checking if the length of the new program aligns with the duration of your study permit
- Verify if the new program can support your application for permanent residency in Canada if that interests you.
Preparing for the Switch
If you have decided to switch your program, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself. Before making the Switch, it’s essential to consider some crucial factors, such as:
- Whether you want to stay at the same institution or change it
- Are your current credits are transferable to the new program
- Whether the new program is eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
If the same institution offers the program, you’re interested in, choosing it’s generally a good idea. However, I suggest you change your institution. In that case, you must consider additional details like ensuring the new institution is a designated learning institution and whether the program aligns with your study permit and permanent residency goals.
Making the Switch
Once you’ve considered the above points, you can officially change the program by contacting the institution directly or through your student portal. Suppose you’re switching to a new institution; in that case, you must inform the government of Canada by accessing the “Designated Learning Institution Student Transfer” option in your online account and entering additional information from your original study permit.
Adjusting to the Switch
It’s crucial to start building healthy habits from the beginning to ensure your future success after making the Switch. Some valuable ways to change to your new program include selecting courses that align with your personal and academic goals, creating a support system by making new friends in your classes, trying out different study techniques, and getting to know your new institution (if you have switched it).
Change is always difficult initially, even when you know it’s for the best! You may have second thoughts or feel uneasy about the changes during this period. However, if you start building healthy habits right from the start, it will help you transition more easily.
If you’re an international student and your program doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t worry – plenty of options are available to you if you want to switch. The possibilities are endless if you wish to change programs within the same institution or move to a different one altogether.
If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at +1 (778) 582-5000 or via email at info@campusdestination.com. Alternatively, visit our website. Our team at Campus Destination is always available to assist you! .
Look at our blog for valuable tips on preparing yourself and ensuring a great start to your new academic journey.
