The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a fast way to apply for a study permit. In fact, most applications through the Student Direct Stream are processed within 20 days. Indeed, it sounds too good to be true, but it is not open to everyone. Only students from specific countries can apply. Luckily, the number of countries is growing every year. In fact, last week the program expanded to include 7 new countries from South America and the Caribbean! This brings the total to 14 nations. Here is the updated list, pointing out the newly included countries:
- – Antigua and Barbuda (new)
- – Brazil (new)
- – China
- – Colombia (new)
- – Costa Rica (new)
- – India
- – Morocco
- – Pakistan
- – Peru (new)
- – Philippines
- – Senegal
- – Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (new)
- – Trinidad and Tobago (new)
- – Vietnam
It might not seem like much, but remember that the program began with only 4 countries in 2018. If you live in one of these countries, you might be eligible for the Student Direct Stream. However, there are more requirements to keep in mind. Luckily, we will explain the documents you will need and how the process works. To conclude, we will explain how you can apply for Permanent Residence after the Student Direct Stream.
Requirements and Documentation
There are two basic requirements to apply through the Student Direct Stream. First, your English or French skills need to be very good. In fact, the language requirements are stricter through the SDS than a regular study permit application. For English, you need an IELTS of 6. For French, you need a CLB level of 7 on the Test d’Evaluation de Français. Secondly, you need a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) as proof that you have at least $10 000 CAD on an investment account. You can get a GIC at specified financial institutions.
Additionally, you will need a handful of documents. You will need an acceptance letter from the institution you will attend as well as proof that you have paid tuition fees for the first year. Also, you will need your latest educational transcripts. Further, it is possible that you will need a medical examination depending on where you live. Luckily, you can click here to find out whether a medical exam is required from your country.
The Process
The whole process is done online, and you can start from this government page if you are ready. Clearly, this means that you need a way to scan or photograph your documents for submission. Luckily, online application means that the process is relatively simple.
One very big advantage of the Student Direct Stream is that you can bring your family with you. Your spouse/partner and children are all able to accompany you. In fact, their processing times for work and study permits may be faster as well. However, you must complete your applications at the same time. Crucially, you must also specify that you are bringing your family along when you apply through the Student Direct Stream.
Student Direct Stream and Permanent Residence
Canada is known for providing excellent migration options for its international students. Luckily, you can read this article to learn more about the migratory benefits of studying in Canada. To put it simply, Canada wants its graduates to stay. Canada needs many more professionals, and its international graduates have proven that they can adapt and contribute to the Canadian workforce.
One notable strategy for international graduates is to apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. This permit allows international students to work in Canada for up to three years after their graduation. This is useful for meeting work hour requirements in programs such as Express Entry. Not to mention that your Canadian work and study experience will massively increase your chances of Permanent Residency through this method. Furthermore, you can enjoy Canada’s many work benefits along the way.
Alternatives and Help
If you are unable to apply through the Student Direct Stream, you can always apply for a study permit through the normal route. However, sometimes studying is not the right option. Different people in different situations require different solutions. Sometimes, you will not have any options available, and you will need to work to open one. At Gentium Immigration, integrity is our policy. If you have no options open, we will let you know. Additionally, we will provide resources to help you prepare for future eligibility.
Immigration can be a difficult process, but we are determined to help. If you would like to take your first steps, you can book a free pre-consultation. In this way we can determine the options available to you based on your profile. All you must do is complete this short survey and wait for an agent’s response within 48 hours. We hope to hear from you!
4 Comments
Guillermo Celis Cruz
July 14, 2021Gracias,
Estoy interesado en programa student direct , por favor quisiera asesoría
Mateo Ospina
July 14, 2021Hola, si después de leer el artículo siente que cumple los requisitios, recomiendo agendar una consulta con cualquiera de nuestro consultores. Mucha suerte!
Rosa Elvira Machuca Llocce
July 14, 2021Buenas noches,este programa es sólo bachillerato?
Mateo Ospina
July 14, 2021Hola! De hecho, es necesario haber cumplido el bachillerato o algo equivalente antes de aplicar a este programa. Saludos!
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