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The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is designed to expedite the process of applying for a Canadian study permit for eligible international students. Here’s how it works and what you need to know:
Eligibility Requirements #
The SDS program is available for residents of the following countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Brazil
- China
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- India
- Morocco
- Pakistan
- Peru
- Philippines
- Senegal
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Vietnam
Application Process #
To apply through SDS, you must:
- Provide a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
- From a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
- Unless you meet the requirements for not needing a PAL.
- Confirmation of Upfront Medical Exam
- Present a document showing you’ve completed the medical exam.
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- Provide proof of a GIC of $20,635 CAD from a participating Canadian bank.
- Proof of Financial Coverage
- Demonstrate that you have covered your travel costs.
- Pay Tuition Fees
- Show evidence that tuition fees for the first year of study are paid.
- Language Test Results
- Submit results from an accepted English language test completed within the last two years:
- IELTS Academic or General Training: Minimum score of 6.0 in each skill (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
- CELPIP General: Minimum score of CLB 7.
- CAEL: Minimum score of 60.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Minimum score of 60.
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 83.
- Submit results from an accepted English language test completed within the last two years:
- Submit Your Application
- Apply through a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Post-Approval #
If approved, you will receive:
- Letter of Introduction (LOI): Also known as a Port of Entry (POE) letter. This letter confirms the approval of your study permit and must be presented to an immigration officer upon arrival in Canada.
- Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): If required for your nationality. The TRV will be in your passport and indicates whether it’s a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
Important Note #
Citizens of the eligible countries must be residing in their home country at the time of applying through the SDS program; they cannot be residing in another country.
