August 12th, 2023 at 02:34 am

SDS New Rule & Changes | IELTS, PTE & TOEFL | Canada Student Visa Update 2023

We’ll talk about the new language exams that are now recognized by Canada’s Student Direct Stream in this article. Additionally, processing times for PR cards, super visas, visiting visas, work permits, and study permits have changed. Discover all the details below.

For applicants to the Student Direct Stream (SDS), Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will begin using four recently authorized English language tests on August 10, 2023. The latest list of recognized language exams consists of;

• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) General
• Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
• Test of English as a Foreign Language; Internet-based test (TOEFL)

Changes to IELTS Requirements

Students can also take General Training or Academic tests for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) in addition to these exams. The following modifications to the SDS’s IELTS criteria will also take effect on August 10 and should be noted.

• First and foremost, you must have an overall band score of 6.0 on the IELTS Academic with a starting date of August 10, 2023, if you plan to apply.
• Second, you must obtain a score of 6.0 in each skill (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) if you submitted your IELTS Academic application by August 10, 2023.
• Third, you still need a 6.0 in each skill part if you’re submitting your application with IELTS General Training before or after August 10th.

SDS Eligibility Requirements

All test scores must demonstrate a thorough command of a Canadian official language to qualify for the SDS. Consequently, speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills are covered in either English or French. Students taking English-language tests must obtain a total score of at least 7 on the CELPIP General test, 60 on the CAEL test, 60 on the Pearson Academic test, or 83 on the TOEFL iBT test.

It’s important to note that these tests must be done in person as online or electronically proctored tests cannot be taken and considered for SDS applicants.

What is the Student Direct Stream?

For international students from particular countries, the SDS program offers expedited processing of study visas. The program aims to keep the processing time for qualified study permit applications at 20 calendar days.

The list of nations that qualify includes;

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Brazil
• China
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• India
• Morocco
• Pakistan
• Peru
• Philippines
• Senegal
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Vietnam

SDS Applicant Eligibility

Students who wish to apply for SDS must;

• First and foremost, be an authorized resident of the nations listed.
• Second, provide a copy of an acceptance letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Third, provide proof of an initial medical examination.
• Additionally, have a $10,000 GIC (guaranteed investment certificate) on hand or be able to confirm that they have purchased one.
• Next, demonstrate that the first year’s tuition has been paid.
• Furthermore, they must submit their application at a Visa Application Center (VAC) and present documentation of language test results taken within two years of the application’s receipt.

Note that even if all of the aforementioned eligibility requirements are met, an IRCC officer may reject the application if they believe it lacks sufficient evidence that the foreign student can fulfill the terms of their stay in Canada according to the program standards for government personnel.

On the official website of the Canadian government, you may discover further details on how to improve your chances of getting a study visa approved.

Testament to the success of these Initiatives

By the end of 2022, Canada was home to more than 800,000 foreign students, a record for the nation. This figure shows a nearly 10-fold rise since 2008. The Canadian government and DLIs have become more assertive in their efforts to draw international students because of their contribution to the economy, societal variety, and cultural diversity on a global scale. This is because of a mix of internal and external forces domestically.

The number of international students has increased dramatically as middle-class populations have grown. Due to the high standard of education, multicultural reputation, and attractive job and immigration chances, it provides the following study, Canada acts as a hub for education.

Student-To-Work Visa Masterplan: Canada Work Visa Options for Students

Options for studying in Canada for international students. Were your hopes of attending a university in the United States while studying abroad dashed because you were unable to obtain a study visa? Don’t worry; Canada offers a variety of visa options to foreign students who wish to attend the best universities in the nation.

Canadian Immigration Pathways for International Students

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is a good place to start. Students who meet all eligibility requirements can use this to create an Express Entry profile and take part in EE drawings.

2. Postgraduate Work Permit

To pursue new academic endeavors and apply for a PGWP to find employment, students may immigrate to Canada on a study permit.

3. Global Talent Stream

For Indian students who are unable to obtain an H-1B visa, this is especially helpful. For those who are unaware, the Global Talent stream is a part of the program for temporary foreign workers. It enables Canadian firms to recruit foreign workers to fill open positions due to skill and labor shortages through work visas. The GTS is a very advantageous immigration route for foreign employees and employers.

4. Canadian Experience Class

It’s interesting to note that students who successfully finish at least a year of post-secondary coursework at a Canadian Institute may be eligible for permanent residency through this program.

5. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Another option for international students seeking immigration is the province nominee scheme. It is a provincial immigration initiative run by the Canadian provinces that propose applicants for PR under the PNP.

6. Student Direct Stream (SDS)

For international students who want to study in Canada, the SDS also serves as a route to immigration. Students in this stream benefit from faster processing times in addition to other advantages.

Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Canada

• The student needs a letter of acceptance from one of the listed educational institutions.
• Additionally, students must provide documentation demonstrating their ability to pay for their studies in Canada.
• Also, criminal history record clearing
• Moreover, health certification
• Likewise, evidence of your English linguistic ability
• Lastly, a purpose statement

Visit Newsnowgh.com for the most up-to-date information on changes to visa criteria, prospective paths to obtaining legal residency, and others.

ALSO READ: