Last Updated on: 16th August 2024, 09:57 am

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a program designed by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to expedite the processing of study permit applications for international students from select countries. The program was launched in 2018 and has since then been a popular option for international students who wish to study in Canada.

The SDS program aims to provide faster processing times for eligible students who are planning to pursue higher education in Canada. This means that students who meet the criteria for the SDS program can expect to have their study permit application processed within a shorter period compared to regular study permit applications.

To be eligible for the SDS program, students must meet the following requirements:

  1. Residency: Students must be a legal resident of one of the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago or Vietnam.
  2. Acceptance: Students must have a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The DLI must be a post-secondary institution that is recognized by the Canadian government.
  3. Payment: Students must pay their first year of tuition fees upfront.
  4. Language: Students must provide proof of language proficiency in either English or French. The accepted language tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test de connaissance du français (TCF) for French.
  5. Funds: Students must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their living expenses in Canada. The minimum amount required varies based on the number of family members accompanying the student.

Once a student has met all the SDS requirements, they can apply for their study permit online. The application process for the SDS program is similar to the regular study permit application process, but with a few additional requirements.

One of the key benefits of the SDS program is that it provides faster processing times for study permit applications. The processing time for SDS applications is generally around 20 calendar days, compared to regular study permit applications that can take several months. However, it is important to note that processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors.

In addition to faster processing times, the SDS program also offers other benefits for eligible students. For example, students who apply through the SDS program are eligible for a work permit that allows them to work part-time during their studies and full-time during scheduled breaks. This can help students cover their living expenses and gain valuable work experience in Canada.

Overall, the Student Direct Stream program is an excellent option for eligible international students who wish to study in Canada. It offers faster processing times, additional benefits, and a streamlined application process. If you are a student from an eligible country and meet the SDS requirements, you should consider applying for the program to make your study permit application process smoother and faster.

Our expert Immigration Consultants in Toronto can help you with the complete process from beginning to end.  You may contact us at the following, for a free consultation:

Phone: 1-888-998-8894

WhatsApp: +1-416-726-0305

Email: info@canadianimmigrationservices.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/canadianimmigrationservices/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadianimmigrationservices/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/come2canada416

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/caimmigrationservices/

Assad Bajwa, Immigration Consultant

I'm a fully licensed Immigration Consultant based in Toronto. My goal is to make your immigration journey as smooth and successful as possible. Follow my blog to stay informed on the latest immigration updates, tips, and insights to help you achieve your goals in Canada.