Canada is one of the world's most attractive destinations for international students.
Last year, Canada welcomed 450,000 new international students, an all-time record.
Among the reasons Canada is so attractive to international students include the country’s high-quality of education, safety, security, and multiculturalism. Canada allows international students to work during their studies and be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their program.
Post completing the study program international students are eligible to receive a work permit equivalent to the period of their study program with an opportunity to gain additional Canadian work experience, which can improve their odds of eventually gaining Canadian permanent residence. Indeed, many of Canada’s over 100 economic class immigration programs cater to international students. Canadian government research shows former international students tend to perform well in the labour market once they gain permanent residence. This is because they are young, well-educated, speak English and/or French fluently, and have Canadian work experience.
Student Direct Stream
Canada also offers a fast-track study permit option called the Student Direct Stream (SDS). The SDS is available to those who live in any of these countries:
- India
- China
- The Philippines
- Pakistan
- Vietnam
- Morocco
- Senegal
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Peru
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Costa Rica
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
IRCC’s processing standard for most SDS applications is 20 days and you need to submit your SDS application online.
The eligibility criteria for the SDS is similar to a normal study permit application, but it also includes key additional requirements. Among them include needing to obtain a minimum of 6.0 on each skill on the IELTS or if you are taking a French test, you need the equivalent of a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of at least 7 in each skill on the TEF.
Students from these countries would also need to get a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) with a participating Canadian bank of $10,000 CAD.
Enjoy your studies in Canada
Canada is home to a world of opportunities for international students. It provides great education, living standards, and job opportunities during and after your studies. It also has more than 100 different economic class immigration pathways, including those that encourage international graduates to apply. Canada has lifted much of its COVID-19 restrictions so now is a great time to pursue your education here.
