Canada Ends Its Student Direct Stream and Nigeria Student Express Stream
Post by : Admin on Nov 14,2024
Canada ended the fast-track study visa programs under Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Express Stream (NSE) on 8th November 2024. These programs enabled quicker processing of eligible post-secondary international students from 14 countries. Nigeria Student Express (NSE) was a similar application process for students in Nigeria. Eligible international students now need to apply through the general study permit stream to study in Canada.
Why Did Canada Stop the SDE and NSE Program?
Canada wants to provide all its students with a smooth and efficient academic experience. Putting an end to the Student Direct Stream and Nigeria Student Express Stream is one of the government measures to ensure that every student enjoys “fair and equal” access to the application process. It is a major step that helps stabilize the population of international students in Canada.
How does it impact foreign students?
SDS and NSE were launched in 2018 to provide fast-track application processing to international students from 14 countries including Brazil, Colombia, India, Philippines and Pakistan. Applications under these streams were processed within 20 business days.
Now all prospective students need to apply for the regular study permit which takes around 2 to 20 weeks to process applications outside Canada. The processing time can also vary depending on your application form’s completeness, seasonal fluctuations and your country of residence.
However, if you have submitted SDS or NSE applications before 2 pm ET on 8th November 2024, they will be processed within 20 days. Any other application submitted after 8th November 2024 will be processed through the regular study permit stream.
What key changes should international students expect?
SDS and NSE streams allowed eligible students to immigrate to Canada faster than the regular study permit process. You can still apply for a Canadian study permit but go through longer processing times.
Here are some key changes that come along with the end of NSE and SDS programs:
Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) as a Financial Proof
A GIC was a mandatory financial requirement for SDS applicants. Though the stream has ended, eligible students can provide GIC as financial proof for the regular study permit application.
Study Permit Requirements Remain the Same
IRCC has set specific academic, financial and language proficiency standards for international students applying for the study permit. These requirements remain unchanged for all the countries included in SDS and NGE.
How Can Eligible Students Still Apply for Study Permits in Canada?
The processing time of current study permit applications will take longer than SDS and NGE streams. But, you can increase your chances of getting an invitation to apply using these tips.
- Submit your applications through the regular study permit stream irrespective of your country of origin. Be familiar with all the selection criteria under this stream to get through the process efficiently.
- Be ready with the necessary financial proofs like GIC.
- Stay informed on policy changes for foreign students.
The Canadian Government adopts a unified approach to regulate the international student population in the country. Prospective students should educate themselves on the updated policies and meet application requirements completely. You can follow the government’s official website or consult with licensed immigration service providers like Onkar Immigration.
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