Canada abolishes Student Direct Stream for international students

OTTAWA: Canada has ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS) – a study permit process that allowed international students to apply to various educational institutions in the country.

This was a “fast track” option where a study permit was received within 20 calendar days if eligibility requirements were met.

“Prospective students are invited to apply through the Regular Study Permit, which accepts Guaranteed Investment Certificates as proof of financial support,” the Canadian government said in a statement Friday. ”

SDS was launched in 2018 to provide faster processing to eligible post-secondary students.

SDS was eventually opened to legal residents of Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam. Prospective university students from Nigeria had a similar process with Nigeria Student Express.

It added that the North American country’s program aims to “enhance integrity, address student vulnerabilities, and ensure equitable access to the application process while promoting a positive educational experience for all.” ”

To fulfill this commitment, the government on November 8 called off the actions of the SDS and the Nigeria Student Express.

But he added that Canada will continue to welcome international students from around the world.

Further, it added that SDS and NSE applications received before 2 PM on November 8, 2024 will be processed under such stream. “Study permit applications submitted at or after this time will be processed under the regular study permit stream.”

The change “will not adversely affect eligibility” for those wishing to apply for a study permit from a country where SDS or NSE measures are offered, the statement said.

“All students, regardless of whether they were eligible for SDS or NSE, must meet the Canadian study permit application requirements.”

Last year, Canada increased the cost of living financial requirements for international students wishing to apply for a study permit in the country. The Guaranteed Investment Certificate has been increased from C$10,000 to C$20,635 per applicant.