Exciting news for aspiring international students!
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently approved four new English language tests (PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CELPIP and CAEL) for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. This development offers greater flexibility and accessibility for students planning to pursue their education in Canada. Smile Foreign Education is delighted to share this update and provide you with all the essential information regarding the newly approved tests.
Pearson, the world’s leading learning company, has today received approval from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for PTE Academic to be accepted for all SDS (Student Direct Stream) applications. PTE Academic will be accepted by the IRCC for SDS applications as of August 10 2023. It allows students who have taken the PTE Academic test and obtained an overall score of 60 or more to present their scores as proof of meeting the SDS program's English language proficiency criteria.
TOEFL iBT, a globally recognized English language test administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), has also been approved by IRCC for the SDS program. This comprehensive assessment evaluates the test-taker's English language abilities in reading, listening, speaking, and writing. With TOEFL iBT scores of overall 83, students can showcase their English proficiency for SDS program applications.
Developed by Paragon Testing Enterprises, CELPIP is renowned for its high standards and accuracy in assessing English language proficiency. The test evaluates the test-taker's skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. With IRCC's approval, students can now utilize CELPIP scores of 7 each skill as evidence of their English proficiency when applying for the SDS program.
Under the SDS category requirements, a minimum overall score of 60 is required, and students who achieve the required score or higher in the CAEL Assessment can confidently submit their results as evidence of meeting the English language proficiency criteria.
What is SDS Category?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) program is an expedited study permit process designed for students applying to study in Canada from specific countries. Eligible students from Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam can take advantage of this streamlined application process.
In recent years, Canada has experienced a significant surge in international student enrollment. The latest figures from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for 2022 reveal that Canada has reached an all-time high in attracting international students. By the end of October, the IRCC had successfully processed over 750,300 study permit applications during the calendar year of 2022.
The SDS program plays a crucial role in facilitating the smooth entry of international students into Canada's world-class educational institutions. By expediting the study permit process, eligible students can receive their permits more quickly, allowing them to plan and commence their studies in Canada with minimal delay.
To qualify for the SDS program, applicants must meet specific requirements, including providing proof of acceptance into a designated learning institution, demonstrating sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses, and obtaining the necessary medical and security clearances.
IRCC will begin to accept test results from these four new tests effective August 10, 2023.
Our team of experienced trainers is well-versed in the latest updates and requirements of the SDS program. We stay up-to-date with the changing landscape of English language tests to ensure that our students have accurate and relevant information. Whether you choose CELPIP, TOEFL iBT, PTE, or CAEL, we are equipped to provide the guidance you need.
To further support our students, we offer comprehensive test preparation coaching. Our experienced instructors are trained to provide targeted coaching for each of the approved English language tests. Through personalized study plans and practice materials, we assist students in developing the necessary skills and strategies to achieve their desired scores.
Our test preparation coaching covers all sections of the tests, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking. We focus on enhancing students' language proficiency, familiarising them with the test format, and providing effective test-taking strategies. Our goal is to empower students to perform at their best and achieve the required scores for their SDS program applications.
In addition to test preparation coaching, we provide guidance on the overall application process for the SDS program. From selecting the right test for you to compiling the necessary documents, our knowledgeable counsellors will assist you every step of the way. We understand the importance of a complete and well-prepared application, and we strive to ensure that our students have a competitive edge.
At Smile Foreign Education, our commitment is to the success of our students. We believe that every student has the potential to excel and achieve their academic goals in Canada. With our expertise, resources, and personalized support, we are confident in our ability to guide students through the new approved English language tests and help them secure their study permits through the SDS program.
If you are planning to study in Canada and need assistance with the English language tests and SDS program application process, Smile Foreign Education is here to help. Contact us today to begin your journey towards a bright and successful educational experience in Canada.