From 10 August 2023, IELTS Academic test applicants will no longer require obtaining a minimum 6.0 score in all individual test sections. Now, a score of just 6.0 overall is needed, which will surely make it easier to choose IELTS Academic to prove your language ability.
Key changes to SDS Program
The changes announced in Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS) program are as follows:
- If you are applying to SDS after the 10 August 2023, all you need is an overall band score of 6 on IELTS Academic.
- If you are applying with IELTS Academic before August 10, 2023, you will require IELTS 6.0 in each skill.
- If you are applying with IELTS General Training, you will require a 6.0 in each skill, before and after 10th August.
You can apply to SDS with IELTS Academic/General Training test results up to two years old. Hence, you can also use test result received before 10th August to apply to SDS after the changes become applicable.
Understand new IELTS Academic band score requirements for SDS
- The requirement for IELTS Academic is a minimum overall band score of 6.0.
- Earlier, test takers needed a minimum of 6.0 on all individual skills (Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking). This is no longer a requirement.
- Now, all test takers need to achieve a minimum overall band score of 6.0, without any particular minimum scores for the individual skills.
- IELTS Overall band score shows your performance across all skills and is the best indicator of someone’s English language skills.
What is Student Direct Stream (SDS)
Based on your country of residence, you may be able to get your study permit quicker via the Student Direct Stream (SDS). The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) try to process most SDS applications within 20 calendar days. However, a few applications may take longer depending on scenario.
Countries eligible for SDS
To be eligible for priority processing under the Student Direct Stream, the study permit applicant needs to be a legal resident of Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, or Vietnam.
To know more or apply for relevant visa in Canada this year, you may get in touch with qualified and trusted Visa and Immigration Advisor at Visas Avenue. You may call the expert on Toll-Free No. 78-18-000-777 or you can drop us an e-mail at info@visasavenue.com.
