WHAT IS THE STUDENT DIRECT STREAM?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a streamlined study permit processing program, designed by the Canadian government to fast-track the application process for international students planning to pursue post-secondary education in Canada. This expedited service is available to legal residents from specific countries, allowing them to receive faster processing of their Canadian study permits.
The SDS aims to make the process of applying for a Canadian study permit more efficient and user-friendly. It's important to note that the SDS is not necessarily better than the regular stream; it is simply quicker due to the agreements and resources that Canada has with some countries.
Applicants must meet certain requirements to be eligible for faster processing through the SDS. These include: being a legal resident living in one of the eligible countries, having an acceptance letter from a post-secondary designated learning institution, and showing proof of paid tuition fees for the first year of studies, among other criteria.
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The Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers a streamlined process for aspiring international students, with an impressive processing time of just 20 calendar days for most applications.
International students who pursue their studies in Canada through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) are eligible to apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program upon completion of their studies.
The PGWP program allows graduates from participating Canadian post-secondary institutions to work in Canada for up to three years after their studies.
The work experience gained through the PGWP can count towards the eligibility criteria for various permanent residency programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is open to legal residents of several specific countries. These residents must have been accepted at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada and be ready to begin studying within the academic year they are applying.
Once admitted to Canada through the SDS, students can enjoy a rich and inclusive educational environment at some of the world's top-ranking universities and colleges.
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Student Direct Stream
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) expedites the study permit application process for international students from certain countries.
The SDS aims to offer aspiring international students fast processing time within 20 calendar days. Thus, it significantly reduces the waiting period and enables students to plan their academic journey in Canada with more certainty and less anxiety.
This speedy processing time, however, remains subject to the applicant providing complete and accurate documentation in their application.
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Who can apply?
To qualify for the Student Direct Stream (SDS), you must:
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Be a legal resident living in one of the eligible countries.
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Have an acceptance letter from a post-secondary designated learning institution.
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Live outside of Canada when applying.
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Have proof of having paid the tuition fee for the first year of study.
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Possess a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAN$10,000.
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If intending to study in Quebec, an attestation of issuance of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration is required.
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Undergo a medical examination before application, if necessary.
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Obtain a police certificate before application, if necessary.
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Submit the most recent secondary or post-secondary school transcript(s).
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Achieve the minimum score required in one of the qualifying language tests.
For a more in-depth eligibility assessment - click here.
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Faster Processing for Family Members
Your spouse or common-law partner, as well as dependent children, may also be eligible for expedited processing times on their visitor visas, study permits, or work permits.
It is crucial to complete and submit their applications simultaneously with your own. If you fail to do so, their applications will not be processed faster.
When submitting your application online, indicate that you have family members accompanying you to Canada.
Please note that not adhering to these instructions might lead to normal processing times for your family members' applications.
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Eligible Countries
International students can apply for Student Direct Stream if they are a resident of one of the following countries: