If you are planning to study in Canada, it is always advisable to apply as soon as you get an offer letter from a university. To smoothen and speed up your visa process, you can choose to opt for Student Direct Stream (SDS)! With SDS, visa processing has become faster and more efficient. Read this blog to know how the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) can help your SDS application to get into Canadian universities faster.

Additionally, if you are planning to take the IELTS Academic test, then here is what you should know about the SDS visa process – From 10th August 2023, things have become easier for students who want to apply for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) Canada study permit. Previously, they needed a 6.0 score in each skill, but now they only need an overall band score of 6.0.

This has caused a lot of relaxation among the IELTS candidates. Students are eager to take advantage of this opportunity to get a faster study permit through SDS. So, let’s explore the changes and the requirements of the IELTS band for the SDS Canada study permit.4

What is Student Direct Stream (SDS) in Canada?

Students applying to universities and colleges in Canada can expect faster visa processing through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program launched by Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada. SDS allows students to avail their visa in 2-3 weeks, unlike the usual visa processing that may take up to 2-3 months. When you meet the eligibility criteria to apply via SDS, most applications are processed within 20 days.

Why IELTS is important for SDS Canada visa application?

The IELTS is an important requirement for international students who wish to apply to study in Canada under the SDS program. IELTS is important for SDS because it serves as proof of the student's English language proficiency as the Canadian government requires international students to demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively in English, which is the primary language of instruction in most Canadian universities and colleges.

To be eligible for SDS, students must achieve a minimum overall IELTS score of 6 bands (no band less than 6). This requirement helps to ensure that students have the language skills necessary to succeed in their academic programs and communicate effectively with instructors and fellow students.

Read more: IELTS exam for Canada

What are the eligibility criteria for SDS Canada?

There are some requirements that you need to fulfill for a study permit via SDS, such as:

• Acceptance from a post-secondary Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

• Tuition fee paid for your first year of study

• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,000

• An overall score of band 6 on the IELTS test

• English language proficiency tests such as IELTS

Document required for SDS visa Canada

If you meet the criteria, you’ll have to submit the following documents required for the SDS visa process for Canada:

• Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

• Proof of Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) payment (certificate/letter of attestation)

• IELTS TRF or TEF scorecard

• Valid passport

• Proof of payment of tuition fee for your first year of study

• Relevant academic background with complete academic documents

• Copy of your medical examination from an authorised panel of doctors

• Additional requirement of CAQ for students intending to study in Quebec

The application process for the SDS Canada visa application

Here are the steps for your SDS Canada visa application:

• Complete the IMM 1294 form on the IRCC website

• Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents

• Pay the fees, which include CAD 150 for the application and CAD 85 for biometrics

• After payment, you'll receive a biometrics request letter. Provide your fingerprints and photo for processing

• You might need to undergo medical exams and background checks

• Upon approval, you'll get an introduction letter, electronic travel authorisation (eTA), or a temporary resident visa for entry into Canada as an international student

Also, for faster SDS visa processing, you must:

• Give your biometrics on time

• Meet all eligibility requirements

Note: All applications for SDS are submitted online. Only the applicants who have submitted the SDS application online are eligible for processing. All paper applications are considered under regular processing!

SDS success rate is relatively higher than the non-SDS because the number of documents to be submitted in SDS is less. Also, IELTS is the only English Language proficiency test to be accepted in Canada for the SDS application. *

To know more about the SDS program you can visit the IRCC here. If you have any queries, feel free to get in touch with our international education experts at IDP.

Read more: IELTS score to apply for Canadian student visa

SDS vs. non-SDS visa process

It’s important to understand the difference between the SDS and non-SDS visa process to make the right decision. Here’s how SDS is different from the non-SDS visa process:

*Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html

Why should you choose IELTS over any other tests?

There are several reasons why you should choose IELTS over any other tests:

1. Wide accessibility of the test

The IELTS test is available in more than 140 countries. No matter where you are from, an IELTS test centre is never far away. It's simple to sign up for the test. All you have to do now is locate an IDP IELTS test facility near you, select an available date, and your test will be scheduled instantly.

2. Accuracy of test results

The IELTS grading process ensures that all tests are scored fairly and accurately. From detailed exam design and development to validation, IELTS tests go through a rigorous process. The staff consists of test writers from various English-speaking countries who provide content that is accessible to people from all walks of life. The tests are then graded by a panel of professional examiners who have been trained to mark them according to a set of criteria.

3. Accepted around the world

IELTS is recognised as a true indication of English language skills by over 12,000 organisations throughout the world. It is considered the most popular English language testing, from major universities, training institutes, and government departments to immigration authorities, businesses, and professional and industrial organisations.

4. Grow with IELTS at every stage of your career

IELTS helps individuals at every stage to achieve language proficiency and access to global opportunities. It is more than just an exam; it is an opportunity to gain access to world-class opportunities, enabling you to communicate effectively on an international stage and stand out in a competitive global landscape.

You can always rely on IDP IELTS training resources to enhance your scores. Free practice tests, courses, articles, and videos are all available through IDP to help you prepare for the IELTS exam.

As you start your journey of studying in an English-speaking country, IELTS will be your steppingstone towards greater achievements. Your success in the test depends not only on your personal abilities and test-taking skills but also on how well you manage pressure. By using the right tools and following advice from our IDP IELTS experts, you will be better prepared to achieve your desired score quickly and make your dreams a reality.