SDS vs Non-SDS Student Visa Stream for International Students: Which One is Right for You?
Do you know which stream is much faster and provides a streamlined process to students, SDS or Non-SDS?
The difference between SDS and Non-SDS streams in the student visa application is the most commonly asked question. The choice of SDS and Non-SDS streams makes a huge difference in the student visa application.
Both streams have different eligibility criteria. One stream provides a faster process whereas the other follows a longer time to process applications.
Today we will discuss SDS in detail and understand why SDS is the most preferred stream by students.
|
S No.
|
SDS
|
Non-SDS
|
| 1 |
For study permit only |
For study, work or migration |
|
2
|
Visa processed in 20 days
|
Visa processed in 45 - 90 days
|
| 3 |
Apply online only |
Apply either online or offline |
|
4
|
GIC is mandatory
|
GIC is not mandatory
|
| 5 |
Tuition fee for 1 year to be paid |
Tuition fee for 6 years to be paid |
|
6
|
IELTS is mandatory
|
IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE
|
| 7 |
Applicable for certain countries |
Applicable for all countries |
|
8
|
Success rate is 75 - 85%
|
Success rate is 65%
|
What is SDS steam?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a fast-track visa application process designed for international students aspiring to study in Canada. The fast-track option is available to students from specific countries such as India, China, Brazil, and others.
The SDS stream was introduced to accelerate the student visa process. Students applying under the SDS stream must qualify for the requirements and arrange the necessary documents.
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Eligibility for SDS Stream - Canada study visa requirements
-
Minimum language score in IELTS with at least 6.0 score in each skill- listening, reading, writing and speaking.
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Transcripts for academic certificates
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Letter of Acceptance from the DLI
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Proof of Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
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Full payment of first-year Tuition fee.
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Proof of medical examination
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Additional documents as per the requirement of chosen university and the province (in some cases).
UPDATE: From August 10, 2023, four new language tests will also be acceptable for student visa applications. These are CELPIP General, CAEL, PTE Academic, and TOEFL iBT Test.
Processing time in the SDS stream
The processing time in the SDS stream for a Canada study visa is only 20 days. It reduces the waiting time and speeds up the result time.
Non-SDS Stream
Non-SDS stream is an opportunity missed in the SDS stream. That means, students who do not qualify for the SDS stream, apply under the Non-SDS stream. The non-SDS stream does not follow an accelerated approach which makes the visa application process more complex and longer than the SDS application process.
What are some tips for Indian students applying for student visas?
Student visa applications have many key points to remember. Some of them are:
The earliest you start the application process, the sufficient time you get to arrange all the necessary documents. An application involves multiple steps and demands various documents to complete the application. Hence, you can initiate the process with a FREE consultation with us and gain an understanding of the next steps.
The lack of documents makes your application incomplete and inaccurate. If you promise strong ties to your home country but do not provide enough documents to prove it then this will weaken your chances of getting the visa.
Do not share false documents or information because it will directly affect your application and bring you rejection.
The primary preparation you need to make funds. Your finances play a crucial role in deciding on your application. Considering that a lack of financial support will affect your studies and paying tuition fees will become unaffordable for you.
Therefore, you may plan to work part-time in Canada, but having enough money to pay your tuition fees for the entire course is best to prepare in advance.
Applying to Canadian universities, you will realize many universities are not accepting below a specified CLB. It is because of Canadian education in the English language. As the primary language of Canada, English is crucial for students to be proficient in and gain their education well.
Why is SDS preferred over Non-SDS?
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Compared to the standard student visa application procedure, SDS offers a simplified and expedited process.
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SDS applications are typically processed within 20 calendar days, enabling approved students to commence their studies in Canada promptly.
Bottom Line
Why can’t Canada just make the visa process direct and uncomplicated? What are these terms SDS and Non-SDS streams for International students?
Do you also feel the same when such terms come your way for visa application? Do these terms make your decision-making longer and more confusing?
Well, that’s the scenario with many students, which is why parents hire a knowledgeable and experienced consultant before making a huge investment. A consultant can help from the beginning to the end process.
As a well-reputed consultant for student guidance for study visa applications, we feel it is our responsibility to spread awareness and knowledge about the student visa process.
And today, we discussed all SDS and why it is preferred over the Non-SDS stream of student visa applications.
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