Four New English Language Tests Approved by IRCC for SDS Study Permit for Canada

Canada has long been a country with friendly immigration laws, high-quality education and an excellent student environment. Every year, a large number of international students move to study in Canada after fulfilling all the requirements. There's some good news if you are also enthusiastic about studying in Canada. IRCC, or the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada, has announced the acceptance of four new English language tests for new SDS (Student Direct Stream) applications. All four tests should exhibit speaking, reading, writing and listening abilities. This will be effective from August 10, 2023.

The newly accepted tests to study in Canada on an SDS visa include the following:

1. CELPIP General 

2. PTE Academic 

3. CAEL

4. TOEFL iBT Test 

In addition, the minimum scores for each of these scores are also defined. PTE Academic and CAEL test results must be a minimum of 60. Candidates who give the CELPIP general test must have individual band scores of 7, and TOEFL iBT a minimum score of 83. These tests must be taken in person as online-invigilated exams will not be accepted for SDS visa applications.

For students who plan to study in Canada, the Student Direct Stream or SDS is the expedited study permit application processing program for specific countries. Students who are legal residents of these countries are eligible for the SDS study permit: Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Colombia, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, or Vietnam.

Being a legal resident of the countries mentioned above is not the only eligibility requirement for SDS. Some other basic requirements are relevant documents, proof of completing education, a GIC certificate, DLI, proof of paid tuition, etc.

The new announcement is to the benefit of the students, giving them options to appear for an exam of their choice. The SDS study permit program was launched in 2018 and is popular among international students of Indian origin.

We hope this news piece provided beneficial insights on the latest updates. If you wish to know more about SDS or how to study in Canada, contact our expert education counsellors at any Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC) branch. Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad journey. Get help with the application process, SOPs and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@merdean.org or 1800-1230-00011.