Canada is known for its world-class education system, attracting a diverse array of international students. Recently, New Rules for Canada Study Visa have been introduced, offering a streamlined application process. One of Canada’s leading financial institutions, Scotiabank, plays a pivotal role in supporting the SDS program by providing them with an opportunity to purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
This new rule marks a significant improvement over the previous system, as it offers direct financial assistance through Scotiabank, alleviating the financial burden on students. With a growing number of Canadian visa applicants each year, the competition for coveted study opportunities intensifies. This is where we come in. As Student Visa Consultants, we offer complete guidance so that visa application is at ease.
The SDS program is poised to address this issue by expanding opportunities for talented students to study abroad. Furthermore, it promises to expedite the processing of a full-time Canada Student Visa, making the dream of studying in Canada more accessible and efficient for international students.
Highlights of New Rules for Canada Student Visa in 2023
The newly launched Canada Student Visa Rules for 2023 bring several significant changes to the application process. Most notably, the replacement of the previous Student Partners Program (SPP) with the Study Direct Stream (SDS). Here are the highlights for new rules:
- Program Replacement: The SPP, which was initiated in 2009, has been replaced by the SDS, signaling a shift in the approach to processing student visa applications.
- Stringent Language Requirement: Under the SDS rule, students are now required to achieve a minimum score of 6 bands in each module of their language proficiency test as one of the Canada Study Visa Requirements. This elevated language requirement ensures that applicants have a strong grasp of the language before applying.
- Annual Fee Payment: A notable change is a switch from semester-wise fee payments to an annual fee payment structure. Students must pay their tuition fees annually.
If a student with a band score of 6 in each module pays only one semester’s fee and fails to pay the annual fee, their application will be considered under the general visa category, potentially causing delays.
- Direct Student Link: Unlike the SPP, which was linked to specific colleges or universities, the SDS is directly linked to the students themselves. This change allows students more flexibility in choosing their educational institutions while maintaining the eligibility criteria set by the SDS.
Revised Eligibility Criteria for the SDS Program
These new rules aim to streamline the Student Visa Application Process and set higher language proficiency standards. Encouraging applicants to be more financially committed to their education in Canada. Ultimately ensuring a smoother and more focused.
However, it is difficult to manage everything at once, hence the Student Visa Consultants in Pune offers a comprehensive guide and assistance in reaching the goal. Here are some of the Canada Study Visa Requirements one needs:
- Enroll in a full-time program at a publicly-funded university or college.
- Attain a minimum score of 6 bands in each module of the IELTS exam to demonstrate language proficiency.
- Provide proof of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) obtained from either Scotiabank or ICICI Bank Canada, confirming the ability to cover living expenses in Canada.
- Demonstrate proof of annual tuition fee payment.
- Submit a medical certificate as part of the application requirements.
- Submit a police certificate as part of your application.
- Present valid educational qualification certificates.
- Possess a valid Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI).
- Be a legal citizen of one of the following countries: China, India, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philippines, Senegal, or Vietnam.
Additional Eligibility Criteria for the SDS Program
- Online Application Submission
- Advanced Medical Examination (proof of this examination must be provided during the application submission)