• Study in Canada

Everything about Canada's Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Q: What is the minimum score for English language tests to apply for study permit under SDS category?

• IELTS( Academic) – overall 6• IELTS (General Test)- equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of 7 ( 6 for each ability)• PTE – overall 60• TOEFL iBT – overall 83• CAEL – overall 60• CELPIP - equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of 7 for each ability

1473 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Aug 28,2023 03:29 PM IST

Want to get your study permit application processed faster? Apply through student direct stream (SDS) which is an expedited processing program. Read to know about the eligibility criteria language test requirements, document requirements, process of applying and more.

About Canada's Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Student Direct Stream or SDS is one of the two ways of obtaining a study permit for Canada. The SDS program makes the study permit application of eligible candidates applicable for faster processing by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada than regular or non- SDS applications.

Eligibility Criteria for Student Direct Stream (SDS)

To be eligible for faster processing of Canadian study permit under the SDS category, the candidate must:

• Be a legal resident of India (or Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam)

• Have an acceptance letter from one of the Canadian post-secondary designated learning institutes (DLIs).

• Reside outside of Canada at the time of application

• Have completed secondary or post-secondary education

• Have paid complete tuition fee for the first year of their academic program in Canada

• have obtained a Guaranteed Income Certificate (GIC)

• Have obtained the minimum scores on one of the qualifying language tests.

English Language Test Requirements for Canada SDS

An update in English language requirements after August 10, 2023 constitutes that English language test scores of Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL), Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), Pearson Test of English (PTE) and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) will be accepted along with the previously only acceptable test - International English Language Testing System (IELTS). These language tests are only accepted in their in-person format and online tests are not accepted.

The updated English language requirements for applying through SDS are:

Language Proficiency Exams	Minimum Score Requirements
IELTS	Minimum overall score of 6
TOEFL	iBT minimum overall score of 83
PTE	Minimum overall score of 60
CELPIP	Equivalent score to a Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of 7 or higher for each ability
CAEL	Minimum overall score of 60

Documents Required to Apply for Study Permit through SDS

Candidates can apply for study permit through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) with the following requisite documents:

1. Passport

2. Guaranteed Income Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,000

3. Proof of funds like loan sanction Letter, fixed deposit slip, bank statements, savings with bank manager’s seal & sign etc.

4. Academic documents like 10th marksheet, 12th marksheet, individual semester marksheets UG & PG (if applicable), consolidated marksheet UG & PG (if applicable), provisional certificate UG & PG (if applicable), degree certificate UG & PG (if applicable), resume (if applicable)

5. Work related documents (If applicable) like experience certificate from previous company, offer letter from current company or payslip of three months

6. English language test scores(IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)

7. Unconditional letter of acceptance

8. Official fee receipt (1-year tuition fee)

9. Medical certificate

10. Photo with white background of size 35mm*45mm

11. Affidavit from sponsor (parent / spouse)

12. Income Tax Returns / Form 16 (previous 2 years)

13. CA certificate (if applicable)

14. Statement of purpose

15. Marriage certificate (if applicable)

16. Spouse’s work – offer letter with 3 months’ payslip (if applicable)

17. Police verification certificate (Required only for very few cases)

Difference between SDS and Non-SDS processes for Canadian Study Permit

The difference between the two processes is outlined in the table below:

Criteria	SDS	Non-SDS
Visa processing time	20 calendar days*	6-8 weeks approx.
Eligibility	Applicable to citizens of India (and Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam)	Applicable to citizens of all countries
Documentation	Brief	Extensive
Process	Streamlined and fast	Lengthy
Medium	Online only	Can also be submitted offline

(*Source - https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/student-direct-stream/after-apply.html)

How to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit under SDS Category?

An SDS application can only be made online. The process includes paying fee for processing, providing details, and paying fee for biometrics. The following steps can be carried out for applying for a study permit through Student Direct Stream or SDS:

Benefits of Applying for Study Permit through Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Eligible students applying for a Canadian study permit through SDS gain the following benefits:

1. Online process – The process of applying through the stream is completely online and therefore a less time consuming and smooth process.

2. Greater chances of approval – Since the eligibility criteria decreases the number of applicants, the chances of approval are higher. In 2023 so far, the success rate or approval rate for SDS applicants is 73%. (Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/study/why-student-direct-stream-is-the-best-way-to-apply-for-your-canadian-student-visa/articleshow/101465917.cms?from=mdr)

3. Faster Processing Time – The processing time for SDS applications is 20 days as compared to a few months for a regular or Non-SDS application.

Conclusion

Student Direct Stream or SDS to study in Canada is an expedited process to obtain study permit. The eligibility includes offer from a Designated Learning Institute in Canada and minimum required scores on language proficiency tests amongst others. The application through the SDS route can only be made online where applicants submit their documents and receive approval in a few days. Applicants can follow the guidelines to apply for the Canadian permit.

Also read: Pros and cons of studying in Canada

FAQ

Are Duolingo scores eligible for SDS?

No, Duolingo test scores are not acceptable for SDS application.

Can I apply again if my SDS application is rejected once?

Yes, students can reapply on the basis of the reason of rejection as provided by the authorities.

Is GIC needed for Non-SDS applicants?

No, GIC is not needed for applying for a study permit through a regular stream.

What is GIC?

It’s a secure investment that helps you pay for your studies and living expenses in Canada. A minimum investment of CAD 10,000 is required to file visa under SDS category.

What is the cost of applying for study permit under the SDS category?

The cost of applying through SDS (and regular or Non-SDS) is CAD 150 (processing fee) and CAD 85 (biometrics fee).

What is the minimum score for English language tests to apply for study permit under SDS category?

• IELTS( Academic) – overall 6
• IELTS (General Test)- equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of 7
( 6 for each ability)
• PTE – overall 60
• TOEFL iBT – overall 83
• CAEL – overall 60
• CELPIP - equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of 7 for each ability

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Navitas Group - Griffith College - Gold Coast Campus

Queensland, Australia • 172 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 31000-38000 / year

Faulkner University

Alabama, USA • 2 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

Red River College Polytechnic - Interlake Campus

Manitoba, Canada • 2 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 8500-17500 / year

Red River College Polytechnic - Portage la Prairie

Manitoba, Canada • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 17000-18500 / year

Global University Systems (GUS) - The University of Law - Chester Campus

England, UK • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 11000-18000 / year

Sprott Shaw College - Nanaimo College Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 18 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 10000-38000 / year

Red River College Polytechnic - Steinbach Campus

Manitoba, Canada • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 8500-17500 / year

Global University Systems (GUS) - St. Matthews University School of Medicine

Other/Any where, USA • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Canadian Universities & Colleges Admissions Fair & Workshop

Study in Canada

18th Sep to 28th Sept, 24 • 11:00AM to 05:00PM

In-Person & Virtual Event

Scholarship Day for USA

Study in USA • Application Days

Hyderabad-Kukatpally • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

Live Webinar with Q&A on Pathways to In-Demand Careers in Healthcare

Study in Canada • Webinar

06:00PM

Virtual Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Why Study MBA From Canada?

Are you considering to study an MBA in Canada but feeling unsure about your decision? There's no need to worry! According to data by IRCC, o...

Updated on • Jul 26,2024 05:14 PM IST • Study in Canada

CELPIP Writing Section: Email Writing Task 1

CELPIP is one of the highly known English language proficiency test in Canada. If you want to live in Canada permanently, you must take this test. It ...

Updated on • Jul 26,2024 03:30 PM IST • CELPIP

Why Study MBA in Ireland?

IntroductionIf you plan to pursue an MBA while being easy on your wallet, look no further than Ireland! This country has some government-fun...

Updated on • Jul 26,2024 01:06 PM IST • Study in Ireland

Student Life in Germany

Germany is known for its affordable education and top-class universities in Europe, but what is it like to become a student at a German univ...

Updated on • Jul 25,2024 05:28 PM IST • Study in Germany

Improve IELTS Listening Skills

Are you anxious about the IELTS test you are about to appear for? Do the accents and language currently appear foreign to you? You can always learn a ...

Updated on • Jul 25,2024 05:22 PM IST • IELTS

Why Study MBA in UK

In today’s world, where new businesses are emerging daily, youngsters worldwide also want to enter the start-up world. They want in-depth ...

Updated on • Jul 25,2024 03:08 PM IST • study in the UK

Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide to Study in Germany

Ever dreamt of studying in a land steeped in history and innovation? Germany, a powerhouse of education and engineering, beckons you with it...

Updated on • Jul 23,2024 01:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

10 Part-time Jobs in UK for International Students

The UK (United Kingdom) offers plenty of opportunities to International students for part-time employment, internships, and post-study employment, ass...

Updated on • Jul 23,2024 01:47 PM IST • study in the UK

Part-time Jobs in Canada for International Students

Canada has been a popular study-abroad destination for Indian students, particularly in the past decade of 2013 – 2023. This is likely to be further...

Updated on • Jul 20,2024 12:52 PM IST • Study in Canada

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topics and Questions

One has to develop ideas on different topics and learn to answer various questions before taking up the IELTS speaking module. The IELTS speaking test...

Updated on • Jul 16,2024 05:46 PM IST • IELTS

F-1 visa for international students: Eligibility, Application, Requirements and Process

Congratulations! Did you get accepted at your preferred university in USA? You are closer to advanced research facilities, a diverse culture, and care...

Updated on • Jul 16,2024 04:37 PM IST • USA

Top 10 Benefits of Studying in Australia for Indian Students

Lately. Australia has emerged as one of the most popular study abroad destinations among Indian students. According to the QS Best Student Cities 2024...

Updated on • Jul 15,2024 05:41 PM IST • Australia

How Can Overseas Study Experience Help You In Your Career?

Making decisions like studying overseas can be very overwhelming. As a student, your mind must be surrounded by lots of questions such as - what are t...

Updated on • Jul 15,2024 03:31 PM IST • Study Abroad

Study Medicine in Germany

Are you an international student planning to study medicine in Germany? We want to tell you are going in the right direction, as Germany hosts world-c...

Updated on • Jul 13,2024 05:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

Grading System in USA

Studying in the USA is an investment for the future as the country provides high-quality education to students. Many international students dream of s...

Updated on • Jul 12,2024 05:59 PM IST • USA

Benefits of 1+1 Programs in Canada

Canada welcomes international students to explore its high-quality education system, diverse culture, and excellent career opportunities. It offers un...

Updated on • Jul 12,2024 04:06 PM IST • Study in Canada

Facts to Know Before Studying in Australia

When you decide to pursue your studies in Australia, there are so many things that you should know before actually moving to the country. Kn...

Updated on • Jul 12,2024 03:38 PM IST • Australia

Australian Student Visa Interview Questions and Answers

Starting a study abroad journey can be overwhelming and this decision needs courage. If you are someone who decided to study abroad, so proud of you! ...

Updated on • Jul 11,2024 03:26 PM IST • Australia

TOEFL Accepted Universities in USA

Navigating the requirements for admission into universities in the USA reveals a wide spectrum of TOEFL score expectations. The TOEFL exam, with its f...

Updated on • Jul 08,2024 05:49 PM IST • TOEFL

Why take Study Abroad Counselling?

Many Indian students dream of studying abroad. However, choosing the right institute and course can be a real challenge. After all, your fut...

Updated on • Jul 08,2024 05:30 PM IST • Study Abroad

Everything about Canada's Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Table of Contents

About Canada's Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Eligibility Criteria for Student Direct Stream (SDS)

English Language Test Requirements for Canada SDS

Documents Required to Apply for Study Permit through SDS

Difference between SDS and Non-SDS processes for Canadian Study Permit

How to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit under SDS Category?

Benefits of Applying for Study Permit through Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams