Canada is recognized worldwide for its exceptional education system. There are numerous educational opportunities available to students from different nations in the country, which is also attractive to Indian students due to its innovative approach to learning and welcoming atmosphere.

Canada has recently introduced new guidelines for individuals seeking to study in the country and require a visa. The Study Direct Stream (SDS) for a study visa. Scotiabank, a major Canadian financial institution, actively endorses the Study Direct Stream. This organization offers financial aid and support to students seeking to pursue higher education in Canada. Scotiabank offers the opportunity for deserving students who meet specific criteria to acquire a GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate). The updated regulation for Canadian student visas surpasses the previous one by providing students with direct financial aid and assistance from Scotiabank. This will lessen the payment burden on students. – The number of individuals seeking Canadian visas increases annually. The probability of smart students obtaining a visa is diminishing. There needs to be more available seats at the top Canadian Universities or Colleges, making it impossible for qualified students to register for their desired courses. The main objective of a new initiative called SDS is to provide students with increased opportunities to pursue their education in foreign countries. Moreover, it will hasten the procedure of acquiring a Canada Student Visa. Some unique features of this newly launched rule.

• The SDS, also known as Study Direct Stream, has replaced the SPP, which originated in 2009.
• The main distinction in this newly introduced regulation is the mandate for a specific number of points or a specific academic level. To be eligible for the SDS rule, each student must attain a minimum score of 6 in every subject.
• Instead of paying the fee each semester, students are required to pay for the entire year in advance. Suppose a student achieves a score of 6 in each module but fails to fulfil the annual fee requirement, having only paid for one semester. In that case, their application will be processed as a general visa application.
• The students are directly linked to SDS, whereas SPP is connected to the college or university.

What are the eligibility criteria for the SDS program?

• • • To be eligible for applying under SDS, students need to attend a government-funded school and be enrolled in full-time courses.
    • Each component of the IELTS test requires a score of at least 6 for successful completion.
    • A document from either Scotiabank or ICICI Bank Canada, known as a GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate), is required to demonstrate sufficient funds for living in Canada.
    • Present the proof or records confirming the payment of the full year’s tuition fee.
    • Prior to submitting your application, you must procure a document from your physician to validate your good state of health.
    • Before you can submit your application, you must present a police document indicating your clean record.
    • Provide your valid certificates to prove your education qualifications.
    • Present the valid LOA (Letter of Acceptance) from a DLI (Designated Learning Institutes).
    • Only citizens from China, India, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philippines, Senegal or Vietnam are eligible for this program.
    • All applications must be submitted online.
    • The medical examination must be finished prior to applying for this study visa.

  Some of the financial institutions that offer GIC for Canada study visas are Scotiabank, Bank of Beijing, Bank of China, Bank of Xian Co. Ltd., Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC), Bank of Montreal, Habib Canadian Bank, HSBC Bank of Canada, ICICI Bank, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, RBC Royal Bank and SBI Canada Bank.

SDS processing time

 The processing time for SDS will be reduced by 20 days. Previously, the duration was 45 days. The SDS cases in Canada will be specifically managed at the Case Processing Centre located in Edmonton. By mandating the use of e-App, the SDS process will be streamlined, and there could be a decrease in the volume of applications coming from abroad. Kindly note that the processing time for non-SDS cases is approximately 2 months. The introduction of this new rule aims to facilitate a smoother visa application process for individuals interested in studying in Canada. – Having the qualities of a good student will increase your chances of being chosen. To steer clear of any difficulties, make certain that you submit all the essential paperwork in a timely manner.