Canada's Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Launched by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in June 2018, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers much faster visa processing times for qualifying international students pursuing higher education in Canada. 

IRCC developed this program to support the rapid growth of international student visa applications and to help streamline the application process for those who want to study in Canada.

Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria, however. These requirements are explained below. 

Keep reading to see if you qualify for the SDS!

An Overview of SDS Canada

Direct Stream of Studies (SDS) is a streamlined program that processes study permits for students applying for post-secondary studies in Canada. This program aims to provide a faster and more efficient processing time for eligible students, making it easier to achieve their academic goals in Canada.

This guide will provide an overview of the SDS program, including its eligibility criteria, application process and benefits for international students.

What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?

A designated learning institution (DLI) is a school, university or college in Canada that accepts international students.

Each study permit or visa application demands proof of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution. Without a letter of approval, you wouldn’t be eligible for the SDS program. 

Here is the list of some DLIs you may be interested in:

• University of British Columbia
• University of Toronto
• McGill University
• Seneca College
• Humber College
• McMaster University
• University of Waterloo
• York University
• University of Alberta
• Centennial College

So, Designated learning institution acceptance is the first step to everything that follows.

What is a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)?

A guaranteed investment certificate is a Canadian investment generally issued by a trust company or bank. offers a guaranteed rate of return over a specified period of time. The yield is not very high, but neither is the investment risk. It is smaller than investments such as stocks, bonds or mutual funds. It is similar to term or term deposit because as such a term sounds familiar to many.

The GIC demonstrates that students have sufficient funds to cover living expenses for their first year in Canada.

The procedure necessitates showing a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).

Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) provision

- Provide steps on how to obtain a GIC for the SDS application. Format: Numbered list 

• Can mention that BorderPass has partnered with Canada’s largest bank (RBC) to help students get a zero-fee bank account and automatically-approved credit card upon arrival. 

Who Can Apply Through Canada's Student Direct Stream?

Applying through Canada’s Student Direct Stream requires meeting specific eligibility criteria.

The specific criteria applicants must meet to apply through SDS:

• Obtain a provincial attestation letter from the province or territory you intend to study
• Secure an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI) for post-secondary education
• You must live outside of Canada when applying
• Provide proof of tuition payment
• Provide a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
• Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) (if studying in Quebec): Keep the specified sum in a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) for the province or territory where you plan to study - Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) provision
• Undergo a medical exam before application, if necessary
• Obtain a police certificate, if necessary
• Provide the most recent secondary or post-secondary school transcripts
• Achieve the minimum required score in one of the qualifying language tests

The advantage of applying via the Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a shorter processing time, and IRCC aims to process SDS applications within 20 calendar days. In addition, SDS applications are simplified and more efficient.

What Are the Countries Eligible for Student Direct Stream (SDS)?

Countries currently eligible for SDS applications are Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Antigua and Barbuda, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.

These countries are selected based on factors such as immigration compliance rates, approval rates and other indicators of how likely applicants are to comply with the terms of their study permits.

Although the list of eligible countries is limited, the list may be expanded in the future.

Benefits of SDS Category Canada

The benefit that stands out involves the faster processing times feature for eligible students.

That’s not all. Here are some other benefits worth noting:

• Streamlined application process, reducing the likelihood of delays or problems.
• Precise eligibility requirements and documentation guidelines
• Access to work permits after graduation (Post-graduation work permit guidelines-link)
• A successful path to permanent residence in Canada

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) has several advantages over the regular study permit application process. The fact that it is faster and simpler makes you decide for it no less and no more.

Student Direct Stream Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Student Direct stream, you must meet the following criteria:

Study at a designated post-secondary learning institution (DLI) in Canada.

Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of at least CAD$10,000. The GIC must be provided by an eligible banks. 

• Pay for your first-year tuition
• Meet the minimum language test requirements of:
• Legally reside in one of the following countries: 

a) China b) India c) The Philippines d) Vietnam e) Pakistan f) Morocco g) Senegal h) Antigua and Barbuda i) Brazil j) Columbia k) Costa Rica l) Peru m) St. Vincent and the Grenadines n) Trinidad and Tobago

What are SDS Canada Requirements?

To be eligible for SDS, you must meet specific requirements. Next, we will outline the key requirements for the SDS program that are essential for a successful application.

Language Test Result

Language test results submission is a part of the application package.

The minimum language test scores required for SDS applications:

• IELTS Academic: 6.0
• PTE Academic: 60
• TOEFL iBT: 83
• CAEL: 60
• CELPIP General: 7

You must do your best to do this test as well as possible and receive a good score. So, practice speaking, listening, reading and writing regularly.

Proof of Paid Tuition Fees

Applying for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) involves providing proof of tuition payment, which should be carefully documented and submitted along with other required documents.

Examples of acceptable proof of paid tuition fees:

• Bank statements
• Letter of confirmation from the educational institution indicating receipt of tuition fees
• Online proof of payment or tuition receipt

Letter of Acceptance

A Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is proof that you have been accepted to a recognized educational institution in Canada.

This is what the letter should contain to be valid for SDS applications:

• Student's full name, as it’s stated in identity documents
• Student ID number
• Program of study, including start date and expected completion date, level of study and duration of the program
• Certificate of tuition payment for the first year of study
• Details of any financial scholarships or grants awarded to the student.
• Contact information from DLI
• Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) if your DLI is based in Quebec

Academic Transcript

Academic transcripts provide a detailed record of your previous education and qualifications, which is important in assessing program eligibility.

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Here are the tips on how to obtain and present academic transcripts:

1. Ask your educational institution for official transcripts.
2. Follow specific procedures for requesting and obtaining official transcripts.
3. Request multiple copies of your transcripts
4. Make sure the transcripts are in English or French

Medical Examination

Medical exam completion is one step closer to submitting all requirements. The process entails undergoing a medical exam, which involves visiting an approved physician for a physical examination. Additional tests may be included if necessary. 

The designated medical practitioners or clinics authorized to conduct the examination are:

SDS vs IRCC's Regular Study Permit Stream

Applying through the Student Direct stream offers two main advantages to international students compared to the regular Study Permit stream.

• Faster processing: Typically, a study permit takes multiple weeks to process. SDS offers just a 20-day processing time.
• Meeting the financial criteria to be approved for your study permit is much easier through the Student Direct Stream. Not only does it require less financial disclosure, but it is also more streamlined and only requires the CAD$20,635 GIC and proof of payment for your first-year tuition

Overall, the streamlined process of applying through SDS may increase your chances of approval.

Applying through the regular study permit stream is still effective. Check out our blog for more information on studying in Canada,

Applying for SDS Through BorderPass

BorderPass is the simplest and most effective way to apply for student visas.

Our software platform will inform you of all the required documents specific to your situation and ensure you are supported throughout your stay in Canada and on track to apply for permanent residency.

Some of the required documents for an SDS application include:

• A copy of your acceptance letter from a post-secondary DLI
• A copy of your upfront medical exam confirmation document (if required)
• A police certificate (if required)
• Proof that you have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD$20,635
• Proof that you have paid the tuition fees for your first year of study
• A copy of your most recent educational transcript
• Proof that you have completed a language test showing either:
• A score of at least 6 for English on the IELTS
• A score of at least 7 on the Test d'Evaluation de Français (TEF)

Consult the Instruction Guide

To adequately meet all the requirements, it is crucial to consult the official instruction guide before applying for the Student Direct Stream (SDS).

Here’s a great instruction guide for all directions you may need.

Get All Required Documents Ready

For a complete online application submission, you must gather all required documents. You must keep in mind a comprehensive document checklist for academic standing maintenance.

Here are all the documents required for the SDS application:

• Valid passport (Follow biometric collection instructions)
• Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Proof of payment of tuition fees for the first year of study
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD $10,000
• Results of a language test (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP, TEF) showing a score of at least 6.0 in each skill (listening, reading, writing, and speaking)
• Academic transcripts
• Medical exam results, if applicable
• Police certificate provision, if applicable
• Any additional documents, if required

Create a checklist of required documents to organize your documents and ensure a smooth submission of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) application. This process also involves regular updates on application status and adherence to Canadian immigration laws.

Fill Out All the Required Forms for Application

The forms needed for the SDS application:

• Application for a Study Permit made outside of Canada(IMM 1294). If your spouse, common-law partner, or children will accompany you, they need to complete their own application using the appropriate application form. (Family member accompaniment advice-link)
• Family Information Form (IMM 5707)
• A representative form (IMM5476), If someone has assisted you in completing this application

Tips on how to accurately fill out the forms:

1. Read the instructions carefully
2. Use clear and concise language
3. Double-check your answers

Pay Required Fees

Another essential part of the process entails paying the application fee.

The fees associated with the SDS application:

The application fee for an SDS Canada visa is C$150.

• Study permit application fee: CAD $150
• Biometrics fee (if applicable): CAD $85 per person or CAD $170 for a family 

You can make an online payment with a credit or debit card or through a financial institution in Canada using a certified cheque or bank draft.

Submit the Application

Applying is done online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website by creating an online account where you will upload your documents. Alternatively, you can apply on paper by mail or in person at a Visa Application Center (VAC) if you are applying from outside Canada, also with all documentation submitted.

Please carefully review each application and document that requires adherence to Canadian immigration laws, verify the accuracy and completeness of all forms and documents, and submit your application.

What are the Costs for Applying Under the Student Direct Stream?

Applying under the Student Direct Stream implies to application fee payment requirement.

• Applying under the Student Direct Stream entails paying the application fee for a visa of 150 CAD (same as a regular study permit)
• Biometrics fee of CAD 85
• Proof that you have paid your first year of tuition and have a GIC of CAD 20,635

You should consider all potential costs, including tuition fees, health insurance, travel, accommodation, books, and personal expenses. These can depend on the institution, the program, and, of course, yourself. That's why creating a realistic budget and keeping additional costs in mind is crucial.

Keep in touch and up to date

IRCC and the Government of Canada want to expand the SDS over the next few years. For all the latest, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

You can check our recent posts on the BorderPass website:

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Key Takeaways

• The student Direct Stream program provides a faster and more efficient processing time for eligible students
• The GIC demonstrates that students have sufficient funds to cover living expenses for their first year in Canada.
• To apply through Canada's Student Direct Stream, you must meet specific eligibility criteria
• Some of the SDS requirements include language tests, proof of paid tuition fees, medical exams, a letter of acceptance and academic transcripts
• Applying for SDS through BorderPass is the streamlined and efficient process you would like to experience

By thoroughly preparing for each application process to maximize your chances of approval. If you need expert advice, BorderPass will take care of it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Student Direct Stream Processing Time?

The current processing time for SDS applications is within 20 calendar days. This is an average processing time, which can take longer for some applications.

You should meet all eligibility requirements and submit complete documentation to expedite processing time.

Can My Family Come with Me Through SDS Canada?

Yes, including your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. They should be eligible for a study, work permit, or visitor visa and submit the required documentation.

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A family member’s application includes a checklist of necessary documents, such as a visa/study permit application, a passport, financial proof, and a medical exam.

Can I Get Canadian Permanent Residence Through SDS Canada?

Yes, you can. After completing your studies, you can apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to gain valuable work experience in Canada. This work experience qualifies you for PR through programs such as Student Direct Stream, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

- Explain the pathway from studying under SDS to obtaining permanent residence in Canada. Format: Paragraph

- Highlight any programs or conditions that facilitate this transition. Format: Paragraph.