Student Direct Stream Canada: Application, Student Visa, Processing Time
clickHere

Student Direct Stream Canada: Application, Student Visa, Processing Time

8 mins read1.1L Views 148 Comments
Talk to Expert Icon BlueTalk to Expert
clickHere
Raj
Raj Vimal
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Nov 14, 2024 18:04 IST

SDS Canada full form is Student Direct Stream Canada. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) use this process to make the Canada student visa process easy and smooth. The Canadian study visa processing time under the SDS program is around 20 days. Make sure, you fulfil the SDS Canada requirements, at the time of application.

SDS Canada

Update: The Government of Canada announced the end of the Student Direct Stream (SDS program) on 09 November 2024. This fast-track visa program was introduced in 2018 to make Canada student visa process smoother and quicker. The sudden policy change will impact future students planning to study in Canada.

SDS Canada is popularly known as the Student Direct Stream (SDS). It was introduced by Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to make the Canada study visa process easy and smother for international students. Earlier, the process of getting a student visa of Canada was time taking and complex. Due to the Student Direct Stream Canada, the visa process became smoother and more efficient. Indian students applying to universities of Canada can now expect a faster visa processing time.

The IRCC replaced the long lengthy Student Partners Program (SPP) with a new Student Direct Stream program. In this article, we will cover the entire information about this Student Direct Stream study visa program including how to apply, eligibility, required documents, fees and Canada SDS visa processing time.








What is SDS Canada?

Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada introduced the new Student Direct Stream program. This is helpful for international students who want to get a Canadian student visa to study in Canada. Now, students can expect the student VISA in less than 20 days after application submission. Needless to say, this made the student visa process faster.  

The SDS Canada program is helpful for students who belong to India, from Antigua, Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent, the Grenadines, Vietnam, Trinidad and Tobago.

How to Apply for SDS?

The application process of the Student Direct Stream program is easy for you if you have basic knowledge of the internet. Below, we have mentioned a step-by-step process to help you understand the application process of SDS.

  1. Visit the official website of IRCC and fill up the IMM 1294 form (Required for everyone)
  2. Upload the scanned copies of your academic and personal documents.
  3. Pay the application fee by using an online payment method. Keep in mind, CAD 150 for the SDS Canada application fee and CAD 85 for the biometrics fee.
  4. You need to provide your photo and fingerprint for biometrics. This step will start after paying the biometrics fee.
  5. Later, you may need to undergo a medical exam.
  6. After background verification, you’ll receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for entry into Canada as an international student.

Before you start the application process for SDS Canada, you must have two things handy.

  1. Scanned copies of your documents.
  2. A working credit/debit card to make the payment.

Related Articles: Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS Colleges in Canada

SDS Canada Visa Eligibility Requirements

The points given below provide the latest information about SDS Canada eligibility for Indian students.

  • Students are supposed to submit their SDS Canada visa applications electronically.
  • Language test results: IRCC SDS requirements with respect to proficiency in language abilities (reading, speaking, listening, and writing) include the following:
    • CAEL: minimum 60 (overall)
    • CELPIP General: equivalent to a CLB 7 (each ability)
    • IELTS Academic: minimum 6 (overall)
    • IELTS General: equivalent CLB 7 (each ability)
    • TCF Canada: equivalent to CLB 7 (each ability)
    • TCF Tout public: minimum 400 (overall)
    • TEF Canada: equivalent to CLB 7 (each ability)
    • TEF 5 épreuves: minimum 400
    • TOEFL iBT: minimum 83 (overall)
    • PTE Academic: minimum 60 (overall)
  • Students must pay full tuition fees for the first year of study.
  • Students must buy a Guaranteed Investment of Certificate (GIC) of CAD 20,635 from any bank insured by the Canadian Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) or any bank listed on the IRCC SDS website (ICICI Canada and SBI Canada).
  • Colleges and institutions applied by the students must have a registered Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) number.
  • Have a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Ministry of Immigration if you are planning to study in Quebec. 
  • Medical Examination 
  • Police Certificate 
  • Transcripts of the most recent secondary or post-secondary school.
  • Must have an acceptance letter from a post-secondary Designated Learning Institute. 
  • SDS Canada visa application fee of C$150.







Note: Depending upon where you are applying from more documents may be asked from you, In this situation, your application will take a longer time to process.

Who Can Not Apply for SDS Canada

  • If you live in one of the countries mentioned above, you are not eligible for SDS.
  • If you live in another country (even if you are a citizen of one of the countries mentioned above) 
  • If you do not meet the eligibility for faster processing of your visa 
Score Predictor

Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!

Share 12th Board, Percentage, english score
Get estimated scores or IELTS, TOEFL & PTE


However, you are still allowed to apply through the regular student permit process to study in Canada. 

Documents Required for SDS Canada Visa Application

The points given below provide information about the documents required for SDS Canada application:

  • Copy of your acceptance letter from the DLI.
  • Most recent secondary or post-secondary education academic transcripts.
  • Copy of your upfront medical examination confirmation.
  • Proof of GIC payment of CAD 20,635.
  • An official letter from DLI confirming payment of tuition fee.
  • Proof of English language proficiency.
  • Identity proof.
  • Application for study permit made outside Canada.
  • Family information form (if required).
  • Temporary Resident Visa application form (if required).

Under this new program, all Canadian colleges and Institutions with a registered DLI number will come under SDS. Unlike SPP which allowed international students to apply to only about 45 odd PSI institutions, the SDS now is open to any college and university with a valid DLI number. The visa processing time for SDS student visa applications will be around 20 days. For non-SDS programs, the processing time will be the same as regular processing times which is around 7 weeks.

What is a Guaranteed Investment Certificate?

Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is a short-term investment offered by the banks of Canada. It is mandatory to show the GIC investment proof at the time of the SDS Canada application. In simple words, it is proof that student has an amount in back up to fund their expenses while studying in Canada. Consider it as a prerequisite for a Canadian Student Visa. The IRCC has set the GIC Canada amount CAD 20,635 (INR 12,75,878 Approx). 

Financial Institutions that offer GICs

The GIC can be obtained from any of the financial institutions listed on the Canadian Deposit Insurance Company Website. Before choosing a financial institution you should make sure the financial institution you choose offers GICs and meets the criteria for Student Direct Stream. Below, we provide a list of financial institutions that meet the criteria for Student Direct Stream:

RecommendationView All

Explore MS colleges in Canada

University of Toronto

Toronto, CanadaPublic

50 courses
18.29 L - 39.84 L
The University of British Columbia

Vancouver, CanadaPublic

73 courses
4.89 L - 38.28 L
McGill University

Montreal, CanadaPublic

41 courses
9.51 L - 17.98 L
University of Alberta

Edmonton, CanadaPublic

34 courses
3.88 L - 24.32 L
University of Calgary

Calgary, CanadaPublic

35 courses
1.52 L - 37.13 L
University of Waterloo

Waterloo, CanadaPublic

20 courses
13.14 L - 28.71 L
University of Ottawa

Ottawa, CanadaPublic

23 courses
9.78 L - 17.77 L
McMaster University

Hamilton, CanadaPublic

37 courses
6.88 L - 24.99 L
Western University

London, CanadaPublic

32 courses
7.79 L - 36.01 L
University of Montreal

Montreal, CanadaPublic

3 courses
13.03 L - 16.03 L
Is this recommendation relevant?
  • ICICI Bank 
  • SBI Canada Bank 
  • HSBC Canada Bank 
  • Bank of Beijing 
  • Bank of China 
  • RBC Royal Bank 
  • Scotia Bank

Advantages of Applying Through SDS Canada

Here are some advantages of applying through Student Direct Stream:

  • Faster processing time than non-SDS visa application.
  • You'll get your student visa in just 20 days if the biometrics process is done.
  • With less financial documentation, it's easier for eligible students to meet the criteria.
  • SDS applicants have access to dedicated support from Canadian visa offices.
  • A wider range of universities and colleges options.

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers a quicker and smoother process for getting a Canadian study permit. To be eligible for the SDS program, students need to meet eligibility criteria, such as paying GIC ammount to cover the full tuition for the first year of study, medical examination, and IELTS score of 6.0 in each section. 

The SDS program seems to be a breather for Indian students who can now hope for a faster visa, more options, and opportunities for jobs and PR. For help with university applications, students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.

Also, read:

SDS Colleges in Ontario

SDS Colleges in British Columbia

What is SPP Program?

SPP Colleges in Canada

Q:   Why study at the University of Niagara Falls?
A:

The University of Niagara Falls is located in the historic downtown core of Niagara Falls, Ontario. It is a private university that offers UG and PG courses. Some of the reasons to study at this university are:

  • Student-centered approach: The dedicated faculty at UNF supports students through their academic journey, help them prioritize their success, and guides towards a meaningful career
  • State-of-the-art campus: The campus of UNF features incredible spaces for study and collaboration. There are student spaces at the university for studying and learning. Additionally, students can take part in the student clubs and associations and events hosted on-campus
  • Awards and scholarships: This university assists students through a variety of entrance awards and academic scholarships
  • Location: While studying at UNF, students have the chance to live and study in Canada's #1 tourist destination
Q:   What type of programs are offered by ICM Canada?
A:

ICM Canada offers UTP Stage I and Stage II programs. The UTP Stage II program is equivalent to the first-year university program at the University of Manitoba. When students complete the ICM Stage II program, they will be eligible to get transferred to the second year of the degree at the University of Manitoba. UTP Stage I a foundation or pre-university studies programme that acts as a bridge between secondary school and university studies.

Study areas of the UTP Stage II programs are:

  • Agriculture and Food Sciences
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Environment, Earth, and Resources
  • Science
  • Recreation Management and Community Development
Q:   What IELTS score is required at Prince Edward Island University?
A:

International students must meet the Prince Edward Island University IELTS requirements to get admission to UG and PG programs. Applicants whose first language is not English must submit the IELTS score to meet the English language requirements. Mentioned below are the minimum IELTS score required for undergraduate and graduate admissions:

English Language Exam

Arts, Science, Business, Engineering and Bachelor of Education

Nursing, Radiography, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine & Education

IELTS (Academic)

Overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6

Overall score of 7 with 7 in writing and speaking; 6.5 in reading and listening

 

English Language Exam

Regular Offer

(All Programs Except Those Noted In Next Column)

Regular Offer

(Nursing, Education, Doctor Of

Philosophy, Doctor Of Applied Health)

IELTS (Academic)

7 in writing and no band lower than 6.5

7 in writing and speaking; 6.5 in reading and listening

Q:   What is the CGPA requirement for Prince Edward Island?
A:

International students must meet the general undergraduate admission requirements to study at Prince Edward Island. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 1.7 in the major subject requirements for Prince Edward Island University admission.

Read about the Canada Grading System

Q:   How much time is required for an offer letter by St. Clair College, Canada?
A:

International students can apply for St. Clair College admission through the college official portal and submit the required application material before the equal consideration deadline. As application received after the deadline are considered on a first-come, first-serve basis. The admission decision on acceptance to the college can take anywhere between 2-6 weeks. However, there is no special mention about admission decision timeline, it is recommended to reach out to the college for further clarity.

Q:   Is Manitoba Institute of Trade and Technology good for international students?
A:

Manitoba Institute of Trade and Technology is one of the best institutes in Winnipeg for international students. They offer various bachelor, master, diploma, and certificate programs in fields like Business Administration, Culinary Arts & Design, Hospitality Management, Automotive Services, Applied Leadership, Industrial Welding, Rehabilitation, Software Development, Medicine, Graphic & Print, Hairstyling, and Electrical Applications.

According to the Manitoba Institute of Trade and Technology review the MITT faculty is dedicated, encouraging, and helpful to international students to get settled in their first year. They offer a wide range of activities, and the majority of the teachers are quite skilled. Smaller class sizes allow students to connect with the teachers more often and improve their grasp of subjects requiring much explanation.

Q:   How is Holland College, Canada?
A:

According to student reviews, Holland College is one of the best universities and is well-known for its wide range of offerings and emphasis on practical, experience learning. It is known for giving international students real-world knowledge and abilities that employers highly respect. The institution offers courses in Business, Health, Technology, and other subjects, and it has several campuses spread out around Prince Edward Island. Holland College is a well-liked option for both Canadian and foreign students because of its friendly and encouraging study atmosphere.

Q:   Is Niagara Falls University public or private?
A:

The University of Niagara Falls Canada is a private, for-profit university located in Downtown Niagara Falls, Canada. It was established in the year 2024. Two UG and Three PG courses are offered by this university. The courses are offered in the study areas Business Administration, Biomedical Sciences, Digital Media, Data Analytics, etc. Note that this university operates independently and has no formal association with or endorsement from Niagara University. Also, this university offers scholarships to international students at the UG and PG levels.

SDS Canada Visa FAQs

Q. What is SDS Canada?

A. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched the SDS (Student Direct Stream) programme. The programme is created to expedite the processing of study permits for specific overseas students (20 calendar days). It is accessible to certain overseas students from nations like India. It is available for students who wish to study at a DLI (designated learning institution).

Q. What are the requirements for SDS Canada visa?

A. Here are the requirements to qualify for the SDS Canada visa:

  • Resident of a certain country (includes India)
  • Acceptance letter from a DLI
  • Applicant must be living outside of Canada at the time of application
  • Proof of payment of first year tuition fee
  • Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of C$20,635
  • Medical examination certificate
  • Police clearance certificate
  • IELTS score of at least 6.0 in each section
  • Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) (if applying to a DLI in Quebec).

Q. Is IELTS compulsory for SDS Canada?

A. In order to prove their foreign language proficiency, students may appear for IELTS or Test d’évaluation de français (TEF).

Now, PTE Academic will also be accepted for Canada SDS applications. In addition to this, when it comes to IELTS, students need to score at least 6.0 in each part of the IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training Module. As for the TEF, students need to score at least 7 on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB).

Q. What is the processing time and application fee for SDS Canada visa?

A. If you meet all the eligibility requirements, it might take up to 20 calendar days for the processing of your SDS Canada visa. You must provide your biometrics and meet the eligibility requirements for faster processing of your application. The application fee for SDS Canada visa is C$150.

For payment, the following credit and prepaid cards are accepted: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, and UnionPay. All Visa debit cards are also accepted.

Q. What is DLI Canada?

A. DLI Canada stands for Designated Learning Institution in Canada. It is a type of educational institute in Canada, approved by the government to host international students.

Q. What is the average processing time for SDS applications?

A.IRCC takes 20 calendar days to approve student visa applied through Student Direct Stream. you can track the status of your SDS application online using the IRCC website.

About the Author
author-image
Written by
Raj Vimal
Study Abroad Expert

Raj Vimal has experience of 7+ years in SEO Content Writing, which includes 5+ years in the Ed-Tech industry. He has written articles about studying abroad, especially in the USA, UK, and other English-speaking coun... Read Full Bio

author-image
Reviewed by
Prayas
UG & PG expert

Armed with a decade of professional experience, Prayas is a connoisseur of the overseas education industry. He holds a post-graduate diploma in marketing and has the knack for finding ideal study options for student... Read Full Bio

Explore popular study destinations
Resources for you
Understand the process step by step by referring to these guides curated just for you
qna

Comments

(148)

Hi, I have 6 years of education gap after my B.Tech, is there any universities or colleges accepts for Masters in canada or australia

Reply to shekar reddy nedhuru

Hii, I have two years gap after higher secondary, can I apply for may intake

Reply to Devinder Cheema

A

Aprant Agarwal

a year ago

Hello. You may apply to Canada universities. However, make sure to have a valid justification for your academic gaps.

k

kanam shan

a year ago

what about Sri Lanka?

Reply to kanam shan

A

Aprant Agarwal

a year ago

SDS Canada programme is for the citizens of the following nations: Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.

A

AbdulRahman

2 years ago

I completed my UG in the year 2018, and now I am applying for a PGDM course for 2023 in Canada. Do I need to provide any documents to fill my year gap? P.S: I don't have a proper work experience letter and a pay slip for my work experience. Someone, please give me some guidance.

Reply to AbdulRahman

A

Aprant Agarwal

2 years ago

Hi. Make sure that you have met all the eligibility requirements for the course that you are applying for. If your course does not require mandatory work experience, you can justify your gaps in your SOP or Letter of Motivation. Make sure to score well on all the entrance tests in order to compensat

...Read more

V

Varun

2 years ago

For 3 years of study in Canada under SDS do I have to show funds ?? I paid fees and gic

Reply to Varun

A

Aprant Agarwal

2 years ago

Hi. Please go through the article once again to know about the documents required for SDS application.