What is Student Direct Stream (SDS) Canada?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) functions as a fast lane for students who wish to study in Canada. Fast-tracking the application process for eligible countries, SDS facilitates the process for international students. Canada aims to complete the applications of students in just 20 days, ensuring a streamlined and rapid process. For instance, Pakistani students can obtain their visa in 4-6 weeks through SDS, significantly faster than the usual 2-3 months.
The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC) initiated the SDS program in June 2018 to assist students globally aspiring to study in Canada. The primary goal of the SDS program is to enhance the process of studying at Canadian universities.
While SDS comes with certain rules, it proves to be a viable option for those who meet them. SDS has expedited the visa process for eligible universities in Canada, requiring less paperwork regarding finances.
Difference between SDS and Non-SDS
The Student Direct Stream facilitates regular study permit applications without replacing them. If SDS requirements aren’t met, regular study permit processing is still an option. It’s important to note that SDS doesn’t guarantee an automatic study permit; it’s a streamlined online process saving time. The key distinction between SDS and non-SDS visa applications lies in their purpose. SDS is an express-entry visa application for students studying in Canada, while Non-SDS is a general visa application for various purposes like work, study, or migration.
Non-SDS visa success rates are generally lower than SDS due to fewer documents required. In 2021, the IRCC reported a 71% success rate for SDS applicants and 40% for non-SDS applicants.
SDS Canada Eligibility Criteria
The primary eligibility criterion is being a resident of one of the 14 eligible countries. These include Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Vietnam, Antigua and Barbuda. If applicants are natives of any of these countries, they qualify for SDS.
SDS Canada Requirements for Pakistan
SDS Canada’s requirements for Pakistan include the following:
1- Submit acceptance letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution.
2- Confirm upfront medical exam completion.
3- Demonstrate ownership of CAD 20,635 Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
4- Verify coverage for travel costs.
5- Confirm payment of first-year tuition fees.
6- Provide language test results within two years.
7- Apply at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
8- Reside outside Canada during the application.
9- Obtain a police certificate if required.
10-. Provide the latest academic transcripts.
11- Attain the minimum score for a qualifying language test.
Additional documents may be necessary depending on the applicant’s location. It’s crucial to include all required documents specified by the visa office processing the application.
SDS Canada Application Process for Pakistan
Follow these steps to initiate the SDS Canada application process for Pakistan:
1- Application Form: Visit the Immigration Refugee Citizenship (IRCC) website and complete the SDS application form IMM 1294.
2- Documents Submission: Upload scanned copies of the required documents.
3- Fee deposit: Pay the fees, which are divided into Application fees (CAD 150 per person) and Biometrics Fees (CAD 85).
4- Biometric Verification: After fee payment, receive the link for the biometrics request letter and provide biometrics information (fingerprints and photo) for processing.
5- Medical Exam: If accepted, you may undergo medical exams and background verification.
6- Decision: Upon approval, receive a letter of introduction, an electronic travel authorization (eTA), or a temporary resident visa for entry into Canada as an international student.
The SDS application stream simplifies the otherwise extensive Canada visa process, making it more accessible and attractive for international students.
SDS Canada University List
The list of SDS colleges and universities in Canada, falling under the category of Designated Learning Institutes (DLI), includes:
-> Sheridan College
-> George Brown College
-> Vancouver Film School
-> Columbia College
-> Lakeland College
-> Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
-> Georgian College
-> Cambrian College
-> Columbia College
-> Kwantlen Polytechnic University
-> Aboriginal Health
-> Acadia University
-> Brescia University College
-> British Columbia Institute of Technology
-> Brock University
-> Cape Breton University
-> Crandall University
-> Dalhousie University
-> Laurentian University
-> MacEwan University
-> Memorial University of Newfoundland
-> Mount Allison University
-> Royal Roads University
-> Toronto Metropolitan University
-> Trent University
-> University of Canada West
-> University of Guelph
-> University of New Brunswick
-> University of Regina
-> University of Waterloo
-> University of Winnipeg
-> Western University
-> York University
SDS Canada Benefits
SDS aims to process study permit applications in just four weeks, significantly faster than the regular processing time of several months for Non-SDS applicants. Students from specific countries, including India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, and Philippines, are eligible for the SDS program. SDS Canada provides the following major benefits:
-> A streamlined process
-> Time efficient
-> Shorter processing period
The application for SDS can only be completed online, while Non-SDS is available offline and involves a more extended process. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) benefits international students in Canada by ensuring prompt study permit approval.
Final Words
SDS Canada stands out as the quickest route to obtain a study permit with its streamlined process. While requiring more documents compared to non-SDS, it boasts a higher success rate. However, if applicants face hurdles they can always contact the experts at AK Consultants for guidelines and support. For an optimal Canadian study experience, it is recommended that students apply through SDS Canada. The online application process ensures convenience and contributes to a higher success rate.
FAQs
A: Students can apply for SDS Canada online through the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
A: A Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is a school authorized by a provincial or territorial government to enroll international students. In Canada, all primary and secondary schools are acknowledged as designated learning institutions. To apply for a study permit, applicants must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
A: A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is a Canadian investment with a guaranteed return. Banks verify GIC purchases with a letter or certificate and hold the investment until the student arrives in Canada. Upon arrival, the student receives a portion of the GIC after identity verification, with the remainder paid out over 10-12 months. Non-compliance with these requirements will disqualify the student from the Student Direct Stream.
