Skip to content
Rate article
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
1.00/5 - 1 votes
Share article

This article was updated more than 6 months ago. Some information may be outdated.

Canada has announced that additional English language tests for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) will be accepted starting August 10, 2023.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will now accept the following English language tests as proof of language proficiency for the SDS:

  • Pearson PTE Academic
  • TOEFL internet-Based Test (iBT)
  • Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL)
  • CELPIP General

While IELTS Academic has been accepted from the beginning, the four additional English language tests will provide SDS applicants with more options to complete their proof of language skills required for their studies.

The language test must have been completed within two years of the date that IRCC receives the SDS application.

What is the SDS?

The Student Direct Stream is an expedited study permit processing program. It is intended for those who are applying to study in Canada at a Designated Learning institution (DLI). The SDS is available to students who reside in the following countries:

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Brazil
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Costa Rica
  • India
  • Morocco
  • Pakistan
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Senegal
  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Vietnam

To be eligible for the SDS, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide documents such as proof of a valid language test result, proof of an eligible Guaranteed Investment Certificate of $10,000 or more from an eligible bank, payment of tuition for the first year of study, letter of acceptance, recent transcript, and a medical exam among other documents.

Applicants who are taking a prerequisite course or bridging program of study at a Canadian post secondary before starting their main program may also be eligible. Spouses and common-law partners of SDS applicants may be eligible for cocurrent processing if they apply at the same time.

Keep in mind, a study permit is not a visa that allows you to travel to Canada. You may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA).

If you are interested in moving to Canada, check out your eligibility for more than 20 immigration programs by signing up for a free Moving2Canada account.

About the author

Shelby Thevenot

Shelby Thevenot

They/Them
Canadian Immigration Writer
Shelby is a journalist, freelance writer, and expert news analyst with more than five years of experience in writing about Canadian immigration.
Read more about Shelby Thevenot
Citation "Canada adds new English language tests for Student Direct Stream." Moving2Canada. . Copy for Citation

Advertisement

  • Canada Abroad team

    Canada Abroad

    Canada Abroad is a transparent Canadian immigration consultancy with advice you can trust. Led by Deanne Acres-Lans (RCIC #508363), the team delivers professional, regulated, and efficient service.

  • The Doherty Fultz Immigration team staff members

    Doherty Fultz Immigration

    Led by Anthony Doherty (RCIC #510956) and Cassandra Fultz (#514356), the Doherty Fultz team uses their 40+ years of experience to empower you towards settling in Canada.

  • Perez McKenzie team 6

    Perez McKenzie Immigration

    Led by Jenny Perez (RCIC #423103), Perez McKenzie Immigration is a Canadian immigration consultancy based in British Columbia, with offices in Vancouver and Whistler.

Our Partners

Get your immigration questions answered by an expert

Speak with a regulated Canadian immigration consultant to help plan your immigration. Moving2Canada is happy to recommend a handful of exceptional consultants.
  • Smiling young woman at a laptop

    Find the best immigration program for you

    Take our free immigration quiz and we'll tell you the best immigration programs for you!

  • Chef at restaurant spooning vegetables

    Get matched to job opportunities

    Get matched to job opportunities from Canadian employers who are seeking to hire people with your skills.

  • Access our immigration roadmaps

    Our immigration roadmaps will teach you the basics of Express Entry, study permits, and more! Take control of your own immigration process.

Exclusive

Unlock exclusive resources with a free account.

Create a Moving2Canada account to get the resources you need, tailored to your profile. Get matched with the best immigration programs & job offers, and access exclusive events & resources.