Canada introduces new language requirement for study visa applicants through SDS

Canada has introduced new language tests for the expedited Student Direct Stream (SDS) route to obtain Study Permits. Applicants from 14 countries, including India, can now secure a study permit within 20 days under SDS.

Starting from August 10, 2023, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for obtaining a Canada study permit, also known as a Canada study visa, will now accept four newly-approved English language tests. These new language tests will be applicable for SDS.

To be eligible for SDS, applicants must provide a valid language test result that meets the minimum score requirement. The language requirements will differ based on whether the application was submitted before August 10, 2023, or on or after that date.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has specific eligibility criteria that must be met to obtain a Canadian Study Permit.

The newly-approved English language tests accepted by IRCC for SDS starting from August 10, 2023, include:

1. Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
2. Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)
3. Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test
4. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT

These tests must be taken in-person, as online versions will not be accepted by IRCC for SDS.

With the addition of these four tests, there are now a total of six English language tests approved for SDS.

Additionally, the IELTS requirement for SDS has been updated. For those who applied before August 10, 2023, a score of 6 or more in each language ability (listening, reading, writing, speaking) is required. For those who applied on or after August 10, 2023, an overall band score of 6.0 is necessary (not in each of the four abilities as previously required).

Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a streamlined process for international students to obtain a study permit for studying in Canada. SDS applications are typically processed within 20 days.

Fourteen countries are eligible for SDS pathway for Canada Study Permit:

• India
• Pakistan
• Philippines
• China
• Colombia
• Brazil
• Costa Rica
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Morocco
• Peru
• Senegal
• Vietnam
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

To be eligible for SDS, applicants must be legal residents living in any of the eligible countries at the time of applying. Other requirements include a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, proof of payment of first-year tuition fees, a Guaranteed Income Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,000, and meeting the language requirement.

Seeking proper guidance can help applicants obtain a Canada Study Permit within 20 days through the SDS pathway.