How to Apply for Student Direct Stream (SDS) in Canada?

Sanjay Yadav
[Published 21 Apr, 2023 | 05:32 PM]
About Author - 5 min read
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The Study Direct Stream (SDS), formerly known as the Students Partners Program (SPP) is a streamlined process that facilitates faster processing of Study Visa applications for international students from eligible countries who are applying to Canadian colleges and universities. This process is designed to make it easier for international students to obtain a Study Visa to pursue their studies in Canada.

If you are an international student who wants to study in Canada and is from an eligible country, you can apply under the SDS program. In this blog post, we will outline the steps you need to take to apply under SDS Canada. But before we do that, let us understand the benefits of applying under the SDS.

SDS vs. Non-SDS: Benefits

There are three key benefits of applying through SDS, rather than Non-SDS.

• Quicker Processing Times: SDS is aimed at making the entire process easier for international students. At current processing rates, applying under the SDS takes around 20 days or less.
• Fewer Financial Documents: As compared to the non-SDS pathway, international students applying under the SDS require fewer documents to prove financial eligibility for Canada Study Visa.
• Work Opportunities: International students studying are eligible to work while studying in Canada - both on-campus and off-campus. They are also eligible to apply for a Work Permit after graduation.

5 Easy Steps to Apply for SDS in Canada

STEP 1: Confirm your eligibility

The first step is to ensure that you are eligible to apply under SDS. The SDS program is available to students from certain countries, including China, India, the Philippines, and Vietnam. You must be a citizen of one of these countries to apply under the SDS program.

In addition, you must also meet certain requirements, such as having a valid acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI), proof of payment of tuition fees for the first year of study, and proof of living expenses.

STEP 2: Gather the required documents

To apply under SDS, you will need to gather a number of documents. These documents may vary depending on your country of residence and your personal circumstances, but generally, you will need:

• A valid passport or travel document
• A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI)
• Proof of payment of tuition fees for the first year of study
• Proof of funds to support your stay in Canada (this includes funds for living expenses, accommodation, and return transportation)
• A medical exam certificate (if required)
• A police certificate (if required)

STEP 3: Submit your application

Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application. You can do this online or in person at a Canadian visa application center (VAC) in your country of residence.

When submitting your application, you will need to pay the application fee and provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph). You may also be required to attend an interview with a visa officer.

Read More:- Which documents are needed for student visa application for canada?

STEP 4: Wait for the processing

After you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for it to be processed. The processing time for SDS applications is generally faster than regular Study Visa applications, with most applications being processed within 20 calendar days.

During the processing time, you may be asked to provide additional documentation or attend an interview with a visa officer. It is important to respond to any requests from the Canadian government promptly to avoid delays in the processing of your application.

STEP 5: Receive your Study Permit

If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction. This letter will contain important information such as your Study Permit number and the conditions of your permit. You will need to present this letter to the border services officer when you arrive in Canada. The officer will then issue your Study Visa.

Ready?

Applying under SDS Canada is a streamlined process that can make it easier for international students to obtain a Study Visa to pursue their studies in Canada.

Coming into this year, here are the best SDS colleges in Canada that you can target include Seneca College, George Brown College, Douglas College, Conestoga College, Humber College, Centennial College, Fanshawe College, Lambton College, Langara College, Vancouver Community College. It is important to note that you must arrive in Canada no later than the date indicated in your letter of introduction. If you arrive after this date, your Study Visa may be canceled.

Talk to a study abroad expert, if you’re having trouble going through the process to apply for a Canada Study Visa under SDS.

Good Luck!