SDS Canada – Study Direct Stream study permits
IMPORTANT: Canada stopped the SDS program on November 8, 2024. Do not apply under this program.
Canada has launched a new program for study permits that could make the process faster and easier. However, the new Study Direct Stream (SDS) Program covers the legal residents of the following countries only:
- Antigua and Barbuda*
- Brazil*
- China
- Colombia*
- Costa Rica*
- India
- Morocco
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Peru*
- Senegal
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines*
- Trinidad and Tobago*
- Vietnam
This program may expand to other countries in the future. Nonetheless, if you are not a legal resident of the approved countries, you may not apply for SDS. Of course, you may apply under the regular study permit processes.
* IRCC added these countries to the list on July 9, 2021.
The steps you need to take for SDS Canada
To qualify for this program, you also need to meet the following requirements.
Take an upfront medical exam. Of course, you must visit an approved Panel Physician.- Purchase a $10,000 GIC from a financial institution insured by the Canadian Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC). Note: If you submit your application on or after Jan 1, 2024, you must post 75% of the 12-month LICO, which is currently about $20,635.
- Get admission to a Designated Learning Institution in Canada.
- Pay the first-year tuition fee in full.
- Take the IELTS with a score of at least six or take the TEF Canada with a score of equivalent to Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens 7. If you have graduated from a Canadian curriculum high school, you are exempt from taking any of these tests.
- Submit other necessary forms and documents.
Take an Language requirements for SDS Canada
The following table shows the minimum language requirements for SDS Canada. You only need to take one of the following tests.
| Test | Language | Speaking | Listening | Reading | Writing |
| IELTS General or Academic | English | 6.0 (Six) | Six (6.0) | 6.0 (Six) | Six (6.0) |
| TEF Canada | French | 310 | 249 | 207 | 310 |
Documents and forms
The forms and document checklists vary depending on your country of residence.
Let us help!
Of course, you may either consult with the IRCC website or fill out the following form to help you with the process. Keep in mind, SDS does not guarantee success but is a faster method to receive the outcome of your application.
Last update: 2021-07-09
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