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IRCC is accepting four new language tests now for students under the SDS
Effective August 10, 2023, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is accepting four new English language tests for Student Direct Stream (SDS) applicants.
The new list of approved language tests include:
- Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) General
- Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
- Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet Based test (TOEFL iBT)
Aside from the above-mentioned tests, students can also take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) General Training or Academic tests. However, it is to be noted that as of August 10th, these changes to IELTS requirements for the SDS will come into effect:
- Applications submitted starting August 10, 2023, using IELTS Academic, an overall band score of 6.0 is mandatory.
- Applications made prior to August 10, 2023, using IELTS Academic, a score of 6.0 is required in each skill section (speaking, listening, reading, and writing).
- For IELTS General Training, a score of 6.0 in each skill section remains necessary, regardless of the application being submitted before or after August 10, 2023.
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For the rest of the newly chosen English language tests, students must achieve a total score of at least:
- 7 for CELPIP General tests
- 60 for CAEL tests
- 60 for Pearson Academic tests
- 83 on TOEFEL iBT test
To be eligible for the SDS program, all the test results must show an exceptional command in an official language of Canada (English or French) across all four language abilities i.e., listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
It is also important to note that the students applying for SDS must take one of the approved language tests in-person format. Online or remotely taken tests will not be accepted.
About the Student Direct Stream
The SDS program is designed to expedite the processing of study permit applications for certain eligible students from specific countries, making it faster and more efficient for them to come to Canada for their studies. The program’s goal is to keep the processing duration for approved study permit applications at 20 calendar days.
The list of eligible countries for this program includes Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.
The eligibility criteria for students applying to SDS are as follows:
- Be a legal resident of any one above specified countries
- Provide a copy of a letter of acceptance from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Present confirmation of an upfront medical exam
- Possess, or prove they have acquired a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000
- Prove that tuition fees have been paid for the first year of study
- Provide proof of the language test results obtained within two years of the application being received, showing eligible test scores for the SDS
- Submit their application at a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
However, even if all eligibility conditions are met, IRCC officers retain the right to reject applications if they consider them insufficient to establish the applicant’s ability to fulfil stay conditions in Canada.
If you need any assistance or have any questions, you can contact our Immigration Consultant in Brampton at +1 289 298 1000 or Book Free Consultation on our website canozvisas.com
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