Sector Update FAQs

Dec 2025 | Clarifications from IRCC and CBIE regarding PAL allocations

CBIE has clarified the following:

Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is also required when applying for a study permit extension if the student is:

  • Changing their level of study (even if remaining at the same institution), or
  • Changing their Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

For more details, see: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/documents.html.

In other words:

If a student continues at the same level of study and at the same institution, a PAL is not required.

Dec 2025 | B.C. Public Post‑Secondary Education Review

The provincial government has launched a sustainability review of the public post‑secondary system, led by Don Avison, with a report expected by mid‑March 2026. The review is primarily focused on public institutions; however, IDGI‑BC has emphasized the importance of private degree‑granting institutions in the broader ecosystem and expressed willingness to meet with the review team to discuss their role.

Opportunities for Input:

Members are encouraged to provide, in writing, their perspectives, data, and recommendations. Submissions can be sent to: psfs.sustainability.review@gov.bc.ca 

IDGI‑BC will continue to advocate for consultation opportunities and will update members if additional engagement mechanisms—such as meetings or timelines—become available.