Canada switches to ordinary study permits and discontinues the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. Learn about the advantages of new applications and how this affects international students.

Termination of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program

Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS) initiative, which was started in 2018 to speed up study visa applications for qualified overseas students, officially ceased on November 8, 2024. The government clarified the adjustment and its ramifications during a parliamentary session that brought attention to the move.

Features of the SDS Program

In the past, the SDS program let qualified students to expedite their visa applications by fulfilling certain requirements, such as:

– Payment of tuition for a full year in advance.

– Presenting a $20,635 CAD Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) as evidence of funds.

– Fulfilling rigorous requirements for linguistic proficiency.

Students who satisfied these requirements benefited from the substantial processing time reductions brought about by this simplified procedure.

Reason for Program Termination

The Canadian government listed a number of justifications for ending the SDS program, such as:

– Guaranteeing each applicant’s equitable and equal access to study permits.

– Addressing the risks that international students encounter.

– Strengthening the program’s integrity to encourage fruitful learning opportunities.

The goal of these adjustments is to provide a more equitable and inclusive environment for all foreign students looking to study in Canada.

Transition to Regular Study Permits

International students, including those from India, must now apply through the standard study permit procedure since the SDS program was discontinued. This route’s salient elements include:

– A six-month rather than a year-long upfront tuition payment obligation.

– Evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses.

For students, especially those who felt burdened by the SDS financial requirements, this change makes the application process more inexpensive and accessible.

Government’s Perspective on Impact

The administration responded to worries about possible difficulties for Indian students by stressing that the normal route provides more accessibility. The new procedure seeks to preserve Canada’s standing as a friendly location for international study while drawing in a wide pool of candidates by reducing financial hurdles.

Looking Ahead

Although there may be some initial adjustments due to the SDS program’s demise, the new approach is intended to promote more affordability and inclusivity. It is advised that students who intend to study in Canada research the standard permit procedure and adjust their financial plans appropriately.

In order to successfully plan their journey, prospective students can utilize assistance tools, such as school loan calculators, for further information and resources.