Studying abroad is a dream for many aspiring students who are seeking quality education and diverse cultural experiences. To facilitate this, there are a handful of countries where they look to start their higher education journey. For countless international students, it’s Canada. From home to numerous world-class universities to great career prospects, indeed it’s the land of educational excellence.
To ease the transition into Canadian academic institutions, the country offers various pathways for obtaining study permits, one of which is the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. So, what is SDS, and how you can apply for one? Let us go ahead and find out more in this exclusive article.
What is SDS?
For students planning tostudy bachelors or masters in Canada, Student Direct Stream (SDS) was introduced as a streamlined visa processing program by Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on 8th June 2018. It facilitates the entry of international students into Canadian colleges and universities. It aims to provide a faster and more efficient visa application process for eligible students from specific countries, thereby attracting top talent from around the world. The SDS program ensures timely processing of study permit applications that allow students to begin their academic journey in Canada without unnecessary delays.
Visa application Fees: $150
Biometric Fees: $85
Processing Time: Usually 20 Calendar days (this may vary)
How to Apply for SDS
Applying for SDS is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific requirements. To apply for SDS, follow the given below steps,
- Obtain Acceptance: Secure admission from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English or French through approved language tests like PTE, TOEFL, IELTS or CELPIP for English or TEF for French.
- Gather Documents: Prepare all necessary documents, including proof of acceptance from a DLI, language test results, proof of financial support, valid travel documents, and police clearance certificates (if applicable).
- Medical Acknowledgement – Medical to be done by a registered panel physician. An e-medical acknowledgment copy is required.
- Online Application: Access the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and complete the online study permit application.
- Pay Fees: Pay the application processing fee and biometric fees.
- Submit Application: Upload all required documents and submit the application online through the IRCC website.
- Biometrics appointment: Need to take an online appointment for biometrics.
- Wait for Processing: Once submitted, wait for the application to be processed by IRCC. Processing times may vary depending on various factors.
- Receive Decision: Await the decision on the study permit application from IRCC. If approved, proceed with sending your passport for stamping, obtaining the necessary travel documents, and preparing for your journey to Canada.
SDS Visa Document Requirements
To qualify for the SDS Canada program, applicants must ensure that they meet all document requirements specified by the Canadian government. But remember, these requirements may not be limited to these,
- Acceptance Proof given by Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Proof of payment of tuition fees for the first year of study.
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
- Language test results demonstrating proficiency in English.
- Proof of financial support to cover living expenses in Canada – Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- Valid passport and other relevant travel documents.
- Medical acknowledgement.
- Police clearance certificate, if required.
Ensuring that all required documents are accurate and up-to-date is essential to avoid delays or complications in the visa application process. Also, you may have noticed that there is mention of this Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). Let us go ahead and understand it.
What is Guaranteed Investment Certificate
As part of the SDS program requirements, international students must also obtain a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution. A GIC is a secure investment that demonstrates the student’s ability to cover living expenses while studying in Canada. The GIC program requires students to deposit $20,635 into a Canadian bank account, which is then released in installments to support their living expenses during their stay in Canada.
In conclusion, the Student Direct Stream in Canada offers a convenient and efficient pathway for international students to pursue their academic aspirations in Canada. By adhering to the program’s requirements and ensuring the timely submission of all necessary documents, prospective students can navigate the visa application process with confidence. If you are thinking to study abroad, don’t forget to consult a reputable overseas education consultant.
