4 New English Language Tests Approved for the SDS by IRCC

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently made an exciting announcement regarding the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. Effective August 10, 2023, IRCC will accept language test results from four additional tests for SDS applicants. This blog explores the details of the four newly approved English language tests and their significance in facilitating the study permit application process for international students.

 

The Expansion of Accepted English Language Tests

To enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of the SDS program, IRCC has expanded the list of approved English language tests. Alongside the previously accepted IELTS General and IELTS Academic, the following four tests will now be recognized:

• CELPIP General: The CELPIP General test assesses an applicant's proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. To meet the SDS requirements, candidates must achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in each of the four language abilities.
• CAEL: The CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language) test evaluates the language proficiency of applicants in academic settings. To qualify for the SDS, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 60.
• PTE Academic: Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic measures English language proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. A minimum score of 60 is required for SDS eligibility.
• TOEFL iBT Test: The TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test) is a globally recognized English proficiency test. SDS applicants need to achieve a minimum score of 83 to meet the language requirements.

 

Importance of Language Proficiency for SDS Applicants

Demonstrating English language proficiency is a vital aspect of the SDS application process. Proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing ensures that international students can effectively communicate and excel academically in Canadian educational institutions. By accepting these additional tests, IRCC aims to provide students with a broader range of options to showcase their language skills.

 

Eligibility Criteria for the SDS

The SDS program offers expedited processing of study permit applications for students from specific countries. To be eligible for the SDS, students must meet the following requirements:

• Residency: Applicants must be legal residents of one of the designated countries, which include Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, or Vietnam.
• Letter of Acceptance: Students must provide a copy of their acceptance letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Medical Exam Confirmation: Applicants must present a confirmation document for their upfront medical examination.
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): Students must demonstrate that they have obtained a Guaranteed Investment Certificate of $10,000.
• Tuition Fee Payment: Proof of payment for the first year's tuition fees is required.
• Language Proficiency: Language test results demonstrating an IELTS score of 6 in English or NCLC 7 for French, completed within two years of the SDS application, must be submitted.
• Application Submission: The application must be submitted at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

 

The Growth of Canada's International Student Population

Canada has experienced a significant increase in its international student population, with over 800,000 international students in the country by the end of 2022. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including the proactive recruitment efforts by the Canadian government and Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), as well as the rising global middle class seeking educational opportunities abroad. Canada's reputation for high-quality education, multiculturalism, and promising work and immigration prospects make it an attractive destination for international students.

 

Bottom line

The approval of four new English language tests for the Student Direct Stream program by IRCC marks an important milestone in facilitating the study permit application process for international students. By expanding the range of accepted tests, IRCC aims to provide students with more options to demonstrate their language proficiency. This development enhances the accessibility and inclusivity of the SDS program, further strengthening Canada's position as a leading destination for international students.

 

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