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Student Direct Stream (SDS)

SAAB Immigration Services Inc. | Immigration Experts for Canada   →  Visa   →  Study in Canada   →  Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Student Direct Stream (SDS)

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers faster processing times for study permit applications for students from specific countries planning to study at a Canadian post-secondary designated learning institution (DLI). Here’s everything you need to know about the SDS, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and important changes effective January 1, 2024.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Acceptance Letter: Have an acceptance letter from a post-secondary DLI in Canada.
  • Live Outside Canada: Apply from outside Canada.
  • Proof of Tuition Payment: Provide proof of payment for the first year of study (receipt from DLI, bank receipt, or letter from DLI confirming payment).
  • Medical Exam: Complete an upfront medical exam if required.
  • Police Certificate: Submit a police certificate if required.
  • Educational Transcripts: Provide your most recent secondary or post-secondary school transcript(s).
Be 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, Vietnam

Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC):
    • For applications received on or after January 1, 2024, the GIC must amount to CAD 20,635.
    • The GIC amount must be CAD 10,000 for applications received before this date.
    • The GIC must meet specific criteria and be from an approved financial institution.

Make sure the financial institution and GIC type meet SDS criteria. Approved institutions include:

    • Bank of China (Canada), Bank of Montreal, Scotiabank, CIBC, Desjardins, ICICI Bank Canada, RBC, TD Bank, among others.

Language Test:
    • IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.
    • TEF Canada: Equivalent to a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7.
    • CAEL, CELPIP, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT: Other accepted tests meeting CLB 7.

Note: Language tests MUST be less than 2 years old when application is received. 

Quebec Applicants:

If studying in Quebec, provide an attestation of issuance of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).

Application process

Important Details
  • Additional Documents: Additional documents MAY BE REQUIRED depending on your country of residence, including POLICE CERTIFICATE. Check visa office instructions to determine if you need a police certificate.
  • Ensure you include all necessary documents to avoid delays.
  • Medical Exam: Required if you have lived or traveled in certain countries for 6+ months in the year before coming to Canada, or if studying or working in health, primary/secondary education, or child/elder care.
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  • Create an Account: Apply online through the IRCC portal.
  • Submit Documents: Gather and submit all required documents, including proof of tuition payment, GIC, language test results, medical exam results, and police certificates.
  • Biometrics: Pay the biometrics fee and submit your fingerprints and photo as soon as possible.
  • Biometrics: Pay the biometrics fee and submit your fingerprints and photo as soon as possible.
Bringing Family Members

Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children may also be eligible for faster processing on their visitor visa, work permit, or study permit applications. Submit their applications simultaneously with yours for expedited processing.

Plan Your Educational Journey with Confidence

At SAAB Immigration Services Inc., we understand the significance of strategic planning for your future in Canada. Our tailored guidance helps you choose the right educational path, navigate the study permit process, and prepare for long-term immigration goals. With our expert support, you can make informed decisions and thrive in Canada’s competitive academic and job markets.

Stay informed about changes in Canadian immigration policies and ensure you meet all requirements for the Student Direct Stream (SDS). By staying proactive, you can benefit from faster processing times and seamless integration into Canada’s educational system. Book an appointment with us to start planning your educational journey and future in Canada.

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