CIMM – Recognized Institutions Pilot – December 05, 2023
Key Facts And Figures
- Volumes in the International Student Program have increased dramatically in recent years. In 2022, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) received nearly 715,000 study permit applications and is expected to exceed this number in 2023.
- Student vulnerability and program integrity have also emerged as key challenges. To help address these issues, a Recognized Institutions Framework is being developed in consultation with stakeholders.
Key Messages
- The proposed Framework is designed to expedite processing for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) that meet a higher standard in terms of sustainable recruitment, student supports, and post-graduation outcomes. DLIs would be assessed according to an index of measures drawing on IRCC and Statistics Canada data as well as data collected directly from eligible DLIs.
- IRCC is planning to implement the Recognized Institutions Framework in time for the fall 2024 semester.
- This Framework, in combination with other new measures, will help us better select and retain those students that are best suited to meet the needs of Canada’s economy and immigration goals.
- These important reforms mark the initial changes identified through the review of the International Student Program, as well as the broader engagement initiative, An Immigration System for Canada’s Future. This includes our ongoing work with institutions, provinces and territories, and organizations representing Canada’s colleges and universities to better detect fraud and uphold the integrity of our immigration programs.
Supplementary Information
- The Framework is not intended to replace the existing DLI Framework. Applicants to DLIs not selected for the Recognized Institutions list would continue to be processed normally.
- IRCC is exploring other potential program integrity measures to ensure the validity of DLI self-reported data.