November 11, 2024
By Nandini Tyagi
Nov 11, 2024
Canada has ended its Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, impacting students from 14 countries, including India
Photo - Freepik
SDS was a fast-track visa processing program launched in 2018 by Canada, designed to expedite study permits for post-secondary students
Photo - Freepik
SDS benefited Indian applicants significantly due to its quicker processing times and high approval rates
Photo - Freepik
According to official data, 60% of the 4 lakh Indian students who sought to study in Canada in 2023 applied under the programme
Photo - Freepik
The approval rate for Indian students was consistently higher under SDS, breaching 70% in 2023. In contrast, those applying through the regular route had approval rates as low as 10%
Photo - Freepik
IRCC cited the reason for termination of SDS: “Canada is committed to giving all international students equal and fair access to the application process for study permits”
Photo - Freepik
With the programme now ended, Indian applicants will face longer processing times and stricter eligibility criteria through the regular study permit route
Photo - Freepik
This change may delay study plans for many students. Advisors recommend earlier planning as visa wait times are now expected to be longer
Photo - Freepik