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In a significant development for international students aspiring to study in Canada, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has granted approval for PTE Academic to be accepted for all Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications. This recognition, effective from August 10, 2023, enables students from select countries to expedite their study permit processing. PTE Academic, offered by Pearson, joins the ranks of globally recognized English language proficiency tests accepted by Canadian authorities. If you want to apply for an SDS Visa in Canada follow up!

Canada’s Growing Attraction to International Students

Canada has been gaining traction as a premier destination for international students, as reflected in the record-high number of study permit applications processed in 2022. The country’s diverse educational institutions, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming environment have made it an appealing choice for students worldwide. Acknowledging the rising demand, the Canadian government has been streamlining visa processing procedures to ensure a smooth experience for international students.

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) Explained

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is an expedited study permit processing program designed for applicants from specific countries. Aimed at reducing processing times, SDS offers a faster route for eligible students to obtain their study permits. The program is available to legal residents of select countries who intend to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Applicants from countries such as:

-Antigua and Barbuda

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

Can take advantage of the SDS pathway.

Eligibility Criteria for SDS Applications

To be eligible for SDS processing, applicants must fulfill specific requirements and provide the necessary documentation upfront. These requirements include:

1. Language Proficiency: To demonstrate language proficiency in English or French, applicants must provide valid language test results. For English, a minimum score of 60 on the PTE Academic test, an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 or higher in each language skill, or an equivalent TEF score is required. 
2. Proof of Financial Capacity: Applicants must demonstrate financial capacity by providing proof of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAN$10,000 or more from a bank insured by the Canadian Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) or listed on the IRCC SDS web page.
3. Tuition Payment: Proof of full payment of tuition fees for the first year of study is required. This can be in the form of a receipt from the designated learning institution or an official letter confirming the payment.
4. Letter of Acceptance: Applicants must provide a letter of acceptance from a post-secondary designated learning institution in Canada.
5. Educational Transcripts: The most recent secondary or post-secondary educational transcript must be submitted.

In addition to the above criteria, applicants for SDS processing must include as part of their electronic application (e-application) specific documents.

Check all about the Eligibility Criteria here.

Applicants planning to study in Quebec must also obtain a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration. 

Can Previously Taken PTE Academic Tests Still Qualify for SDS?

To be eligible, simply ensure that the test itself was completed within 2 years of the date your SDS application is received. This flexibility allows you to utilize your previous PTE Academic scores, as long as they meet the criteria.

For aspiring students looking to study in Canada and prepare for the PTE Academic test, PTE Smart offers comprehensive preparation courses and resources. With PTE Academic now accepted for SDS visas, students can benefit from streamlined processing.