The Student Direct Stream (SDS) process is designed to speed up the processing of student permit applications for those wishing to study in Canada. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), this process can enable residents of select countries to have their study permit applications processed within 20 calendar days.
To ensure your application is processed quickly, there are two key things you need to do: provide your biometrics as soon as possible and meet all the eligibility requirements. It’s important to note that a study permit is not a visa and does not automatically grant you entry into Canada. Depending on your country of origin, you may also need to obtain a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. Once your study permit is approved, the Canadian government will issue a study permit approval letter and, if necessary, an entry visa in your passport, which will allow you to travel to Canada.
First, ensure that you’re a legal resident of one of the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, or Vietnam. You must also have an acceptance letter from a post-secondary Designated Learning Institution (DLI) approved by a provincial or territorial government.
Make sure that you’re living outside of Canada when you apply. You’ll also need to provide proof of payment for your first-year tuition, which can be a receipt from your DLI, an official letter from the DLI, a bank receipt showing payment of tuition fees, or proof that the tuition fee amount has been transferred to a repository account at the DLI.
You’ll also need a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000 CAD and a certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) if you intend to study in Quebec. If you need a medical exam, you’ll need to get one to ensure you’re not inadmissible for medical reasons. You may also need a police certificate to check for a criminal record.
Make sure to have your most recent secondary or post-secondary school transcripts and a language test result that shows a score of 6.0 or higher in each skill (reading, writing, speaking and listening) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or a Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) score that is equal to a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of at least 7 in each skill.
Depending on where you’re applying from, you may also need to provide other documents. Be sure to include all the required documents as specified by your local visa office.
In conclusion, the Student Direct Stream program is a great option for eligible students looking to study in Canada. By following all the eligibility requirements and submitting your application as soon as possible, you can increase your chances of having your study permit application processed quickly and starting your academic journey in Canada with ease.
If you meet all the eligibility requirements and have the necessary documents, you can contact us to apply for the Student Direct Stream (SDS). Remember that a study permit is not a visa and you may need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. Once your study permit is approved, the Government will issue a study permit approval letter and, if required, an entry visa in your passport, authorizing your travel to Canada.
Need help with your Study Permit? We are here to get you through everything.