• 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

178 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.

London South Bank University

England, UK • 143 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 15000-25500 / year

Otago Polytechnic - Dunedin Campus

Otago, New Zealand • 55 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 19030-28220 / year

Lester B. Pearson School Board - Pearson Electrotechnology Centre

Quebec, Canada • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 10000-24000 / year

Georgian College - ILAC

Ontario, Canada • 11 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 16000-18500 / year

Sprott Shaw College - East Vancouver College Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 19 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 10000-27000 / year

West Coast College of Massage Therapy - Victoria

British Columbia, Canada • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 34500-35000 / year

EDUCO - New England College

New Hampshire, USA • 44 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 40000-41000 / year

Seneca Polytechnic - Yorkgate Campus

Ontario, Canada • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 14000-29000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Uk, USA, Australia Application Fair

Study in UK, USA, Australia • Application Days

Chandigarh • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

Australia & UK Application Day

Study in UK, Australia • Application Days

Mohali • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visits - University of Europe for Applied Sciences

Study in Germany • University Visit

Jalandhar2 • 04:30PM

In-Person 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.

Masters in Construction Management in UK- Universities, Admission Process, Eligibility, Scholarship, Jobs

Construction projects have become more innovative & complex in our changing world, with increasing concerns regarding sustainability and social va...

Updated on • Sep 25,2023 05:35 PM IST • study in the UK

Psychology Courses in Canada- Universities, Courses, Eligibility and Career Prospects

The branch of science studies the human mind and its functions, primarily the affecting behaviour of a particular context. Generally, psychology...

Updated on • Sep 25,2023 01:45 PM IST • Courses in Canada

How to work in Canada after Graduation

After completing their studies, many students choose to live in Canada only because there are a lot of job opportunities in Canada for Indian st...

Updated on • Sep 23,2023 04:23 PM IST • Study Abroad

DLI: List of Canadian Designated Learning Institutions

Canada has become very popular among students who wish to pursue higher studies and give a kick-start to their careers. Canada also houses a large num...

Updated on • Sep 22,2023 05:23 PM IST • Study in Canada

Study Abroad Options for Commerce Students after 12th

After taking up a particular stream in their intermediary classes, students often get confused regarding their further education options in the...

Updated on • Sep 22,2023 05:16 PM IST • Study Abroad

Requirements for Studying in New Zealand

A country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, owning two major islands, New Zealand has emerged as an amazing study destination. The B...

Updated on • Sep 22,2023 05:12 PM IST • New Zealand

Requirements for Getting Student Visa for USA

Out of all the prime international education destinations USA holds the number one position and there are number of factors responsible for thi...

Updated on • Sep 22,2023 04:55 PM IST • USA

Reasons to Study in New Zealand

A country with highest biodiversity rate, a number of small islands, mesmerizing beauty, and a well-developed education system, New Ze...

Updated on • Sep 22,2023 04:45 PM IST • New Zealand

Reasons to Study in Glasgow

If you are looking to study abroad, then Glasgow has some of the most picturesque landscapes, and it is also the home to some of the b...

Updated on • Sep 22,2023 04:41 PM IST • UK

Reasons to Study In Canada

Having some of the top-ranked universities and colleges of the world makes Canada the most popular international education destination. Canada...

Updated on • Sep 22,2023 04:38 PM IST • Study in Canada

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