Canada Student Visa 2023: Read IRCC SDS New Rule

This article will discuss the new language exams that are now recognized by Canada's Student Direct Stream. Processing times for PR cards, super visas, visiting visas, work permits, and study permits have also changed.

All of the information is provided below.

On August 10, 2023, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will begin using four recently authorized English language tests for applicants to the Student Direct Stream (SDS). The most recent list of recognized language exams includes:

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)

IELTS Requirements Have Changed

!n addition to these exams, students can take General Training or Academic tests for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The following changes to the SDS's IELTS criteria will also be implemented on August 10 and should be noted.

To begin, if you plan to apply, you must have an overall band score of 6.0 on the IELTS Academic with a start date of August 10, 2023.
Second, if you submit your IELTS Academic application by August 10, 2023, you must have a score of 6.0 in each skill (speaking, listening, reading, and writing).
Third, if you submit your application with IELTS General Training before or after August 10th, you must still have a 6.0 in each skill part.

SDS Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the SDS, all test results must demonstrate a thorough command of a Canadian official language. As a result, skills such as speaking, listening, reading, and writing are taught in either English or French. Students taking English-language exams must achieve a total score of at least 7 on the CELPIP General exam, 60 on the CAEL exam, 60 on the Pearson Academic exam, or 83 on the TOEFL iBT exam.

These tests must be taken in person; 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 want to apply for SDS must do the following:

First and foremost, you must be a legal resident of one of the countries listed.
Second, submit a copy of a letter of acceptance from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Third, show proof of a preliminary medical examination.
They should also have a $10,000 GIC (guaranteed investment certificate) or be able to prove that they have purchased one.
Then, show that the first year's tuition has been paid.
They must also submit their application to a Visa Application Center (VAC) and provide documentation of language test results obtained within two years of the application's receipt.

Even if all of the 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 in accordance with the program standards for government personnel.

More information on how to improve your chances of getting a study visa approved can be found on the Canadian government's official website.

Evidence of these Initiatives' success

By the end of 2022, Canada had received over 800,000 foreign students, a record for the country. This figure has nearly doubled since 2008. Because of their contribution to the global economy, societal diversity, and cultural diversity, the Canadian government and DLIs have become more assertive in their efforts to attract international students. This is due to a combination of domestic, internal, and external forces.

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

Canada Work Visa Options for Students

International students in Canada have several options for studying. Were your plans to study at a university in the United States derailed due to a lack of a study visa? Do not worry; Canada offers a variety of visa options for international students who want to attend the country's best universities.

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