Student Direct Stream (SDS): Who can Apply?

Depending on where you live, you may be able to get your study permit faster through the Student Direct Stream (SDS).

We try to process most SDS applications within 20 calendar days. However, some applications may take longer.

To get faster processing, you must

• give your biometrics as soon as possible
• meet all the eligibility requirements

A study permit is not a visa and does not, by itself, allow you to travel to or enter Canada. You may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). If you do, we’ll issue your visitor visa or eTA with your study permit.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for faster processing through the Student Direct Stream, you must:

be a legal resident living in one of the following countries:

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

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• have an acceptance letter from a post-secondary designated learning institution
• live outside of Canada when you apply
• have proof you have paid your tuition for your first year of study
• have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAN$10,000
• get a medical exam before you apply (if needed)
• get a police certificate before you apply (if needed)
• have your most recent secondary or post-secondary school transcript(s)
• have a language test result that shows:
• a score of 6.0 or higher in each skill (reading, writing, speaking and listening) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Bring your Spouse, Partner or Dependents

Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children may also be able to get faster processing on a

• visitor visa
• work permit
• study permit

You must complete and submit their applications at the same time as your own. If you don’t, we will not process their applications faster. When you apply online, indicate that you have family members coming with you to Canada. This lets you complete their applications with yours.

Discover if you’re eligible to Study in Canada

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