If you want to study in Canada, then you must understand the difference between SDS and Non-SDS visa applications. Students now have quicker access to study in Canada because of the SDS visa. You’ve come to the proper place if you want to learn everything there is to know about SDS and non-SDS differences, requirements, success rates, etc.
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa is expressway access for students from a select group of nations, including China, India, Peru, and others, to study in Canada. Students may apply for an SDS visa once they have completed the SDS IELTS requirements.
The application will be handled in 20 calendar days if all other prerequisites are satisfied. The student can begin their journey by enrolling in any designated learning institutions (DLIs) after receiving approval.
The non-SDS visa Applications for visas to study, work, or immigrate to Canada are approved through the Non-SDS process in general. It is accessible to all nations. Candidates must meet the requirements established for non-SDS visas. The SDS visa alternative programme allows students who did not meet the standards to study in Canada to still apply.
What Is The Difference Between SDS And Non-SDS?
SDS (Student Direct Stream) is an express-entry visa application for students to study in Canada, whereas Non-SDS is a general visa application for everyone to work, study, or migrate in Canada. This is the fundamental difference between SDS and Non-SDS visa applications. Additionally, Non-SDS is applicable to all countries, whereas SDS is only for specific nations like China, India, Peru, and others.
Here’s a quick summary table that will highlight the major factors about applications.
| SDS | Non-SDS |
| For study permit only | To study, work or migration |
| Visa processed in 20 days | Visa processed in 45 – 90 days |
| Apply online only | Apply either online or offline |
| GIC is mandatory | GIC is not mandatory |
| Tuition fee for 1 year to be paid | Tuition fee for 6 years to be paid |
| IELTS is mandatory | IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE |
| Applicable for certain countries | Applicable to all countries |
| The success rate is 75 – 85% | The success rate is 65% |
SDS Visa Requirements
The SDS Canada visa has a set of standards as do all visas in order to process applications quickly. The task of the immigration officer is made easier when candidates meet the requirements and submit authentic documents on time. There is a difference between SDS and Non-SDS Visa that you will see below.
Let us see the SDS Visa Requirements below:
- Language Proficiency test
- Passport
- Identification Proof
- Family Information form (IMM 5645)
- Guaranteed Investment Certificat (GIC)
- Tuition Fee
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
- Educational Documents
- Experience Documents
- Medical Examination Report
- Statement of Purpose (SOP
- Digital Picture
SD Visa Application Fees
The visa application fee for SDS starts from CAD 150 (approx 11,000 INR) whereas the biometric fee is CAD 85.
SD Visa Success Rate
People who believe the SDS Visa is ineffective ought to consider its success rate. The average acceptance rate for SDS visas is between 75% and 85% in less time. International students typically choose SDS Visas since they may complete the application procedure in 20 days and study in Canada.
Non-SDS Visa Requirements
Here is up-to-date information on the different requirements that one needs to fulfil to avail of the Non-SDS Visa.
- Language Proficiency test
- Passport
- Guaranteed Investment Certificat (GIC)
- Family Information form (IMM 5645)
- Tuition Fee
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
- Educational Documents
- Experience Documents
- Medical Examination Report
- Statement of Purpose (SOP
- Digital Picture
Non-SDS Visa Application Fees
The cost of applying for a non-SDS Canada visa is similar to that of applying for an SDS visa. The cost for biometrics is CAD 85. Visit the official website of Canada Immigration for additional details.
Non-SDS Visa Success Rate
In comparison to SDS visas, the non-SDS visa success percentage is considerably lower. It is currently 65% of approval rates on average per year, and it is getting lower. The approval rate for SDS visas is between 75% and 85%, and it takes less time.
Conclusion
Millions of foreigners are drawn to Canada, the nation of opportunities, for travel, education, and employment. In order to speed up and streamline the application process for overseas students, Canada has provided a Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa for some nations. Since then, students who want to study in Canada frequently apply for study permits under the SDS category and easily get accepted into one of the top universities.
It takes a lot of planning and effort to submit an application for an SDS Canada visa. Our team of tutors and student visa experts at UniScholarz are ready to help you realise your ambition if you’re considering pursuing higher education in Canada and are looking for the best advice.
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