The topic today is how to apply for a Canada study visa like the SDS (Student Direct Stream) visa category. The key word here is like, not under, because the SDS visa category no longer exists. Recently, Canada stopped accepting applications under the SDS visa category, and now you can submit your application as a standard application. This is the process available in all countries and is commonly referred to as the Non-SDS visa category.
Previously, the SDS visa was quite popular in major countries like India, Pakistan, China, and Nigeria, but this category has now been discontinued. As a result, no one can apply under the SDS category anymore. The only option available now is to apply through the Non-SDS or standard visa category, which is available worldwide.
After the removal of the SDS category, many students are hesitant to pay the first-year fees and the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), which were mandatory under the SDS. However, my advice is different from the general sentiment. I encourage you to apply for your Canada study visa, even without the SDS category, and I will explain the best approach for doing so.
In this write up, we’ll discuss how to apply for your Canada study visa, even after the removal of the SDS category. The SDS visa was a prominent option for students in many countries, and it was available to applicants from more than 10 countries. The list of countries benefiting from this fast-track option had been growing, but it has now ended.
Read this blog to learn more about how you can still successfully apply for your study visa.
When applying for a Canada study visa under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) category, there were specific benchmarks that you needed to meet. Let’s break down these key requirements:
- Tuition Fee Payment:
One of the primary requirements was to pay the first year’s tuition fee. If you were pursuing a one-year Master’s program and your tuition was $26,000, you had to pay the full amount. Similarly, if your tuition fee was $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000, you were expected to pay the full first-year fee upfront. - Living Expenses (GIC):
The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) was a mandatory requirement under the SDS category. You were required to deposit $20,635 CAD into a Canadian bank account as GIC. Once you landed in Canada, a significant portion of this amount was returned to you. For example, if you paid $20,635, you would receive $8,635 back upon arrival, and the remaining $12,000 would be paid back in monthly instalments of $1,000 over the course of 12 months. This allowed you to manage your living expenses while studying. - English Language Proficiency:
Under the SDS category, several English proficiency tests were accepted, including:- IELTS Academic
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL
- IELTS General Training
This was a key requirement to demonstrate your language skills.
- Medical Examination:
A medical examination was mandatory and needed to be valid for up to one year. This ensured that you were in good health before entering Canada. - Police Clearance Certificate (PCC):
While the PCC was not mandatory, it was highly recommended and advised that you submit it as part of your application. - Letter of Acceptance:
You were required to provide a final letter of acceptance from a recognized Canadian university or college.
Under the SDS (Student Direct Stream) category, there were specific financial requirements that applicants had to meet. One of the most important was the payment of the first-year tuition fee and the GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) for living expenses. These were requirements that students typically had to fulfil, and most students had their parents manage these payments, though some did it themselves. In addition to these financial requirements, students also needed to demonstrate proficiency in English, usually through an English test. The medical examination and police clearance certificate (PCC) were straightforward processes, and obtaining the final Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the university was relatively easy.
However, even though the SDS category is no longer available, it is still recommended for students applying under the Non-SDS category to pay the full first-year fee and the $20,635 GIC. While it’s not mandatory under the Non-SDS application, paying these amounts can significantly strengthen your application. It is still possible to apply without paying the full tuition fee or GIC, and you can submit your application with an initial deposit (ranging from $1,500 to $5,000), without needing to provide an English test score, medical exam, or PCC. These documents are not strictly required for a non-SDS application.
But here’s the important question: Will you get a visa without fulfilling the above requirements? The answer is uncertain. The rules allow you to submit your application without these documents, but in practice, it’s not recommended. The “Norm” in countries like India, Pakistan, and China is to submit a complete application with all the requirements fulfilled. If you don’t meet these expectations, the risk of your visa being denied increases significantly. Visa officers often prioritize applications that present a complete, strong file, one that includes the full tuition fee, GIC, English test scores, medical exam, and PCC.
Therefore, it’s advised to pay the full first-year tuition fee and GIC upfront. If you have the funds, there’s no reason not to pay them. If you’re concerned about the funds, know that banks like ICICI allow you to withdraw the full GIC amount after landing in Canada, meaning your money is not locked in and you won’t have to wait the full 12 months for a refund. This feature allows students to pay the GIC without worrying about being stuck with the funds.
By paying the full tuition fee and GIC, you’re also showing the visa officer that your financial sources are legitimate. If you only show your bank balance from your home country, the visa officer may have doubts about the source of those funds, especially if your income tax returns don’t match the amount you’re showing. Paying the full fees and depositing the GIC provides clarity and confidence, making it a much safer option. Submitting these payments also avoids the risk of refusal due to unclear financial backing, which is one of the most common reasons for visa denials.
While applying under the Non-SDS category still gives you some flexibility, it’s strongly recommended to pay the full first-year fee and GIC. Doing so not only strengthens your application but also eliminates doubts about the legitimacy of your financial situation.
1.0.1 English Language Proficiency
While it is technically possible to submit your Canada study visa application without an English test score, it is highly unlikely that you will get your visa approved without one. If English is your first language, or if you’re applying for a PhD or MS by research degree, you may submit your application without an English proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. However, if English is not your first language and you are not applying for a research-based degree, it is essential to submit a valid English test score.
Before the removal of the SDS (Student Direct Stream) category, the benchmark IELTS score for applicants was an overall 6.0. Based on recent trends, applications submitted with scores lower than 6.0, such as 5.5 or even 5.0, are facing an increasing number of visa refusals. To avoid this, it is recommended that you aim for at least a 6.0 in all IELTS modules. If your score is higher, such as 6.5 or above, it will significantly improve your chances of getting a visa.
Although submitting an English test score is not mandatory under the Non-SDS category, it is still strongly advised. Visa officers cannot assess your English proficiency without a test score, making it riskier to submit an application without one. For the PTE Academic, the standard score is 60 overall (with no module lower than 60), and for the TOEFL, aim for a minimum score of 83. Meeting these benchmarks will greatly increase your chances of securing a study visa for Canada.
1.0.2 Medical Examination and Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
The medical examination and police clearance certificate (PCC) are both straightforward processes that should not be overlooked. These documents are easy to obtain, and there’s no reason to delay or avoid them. Submitting them with your application ensures that your file is complete and increases the likelihood of approval.
1.0.3 Final Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Once you’ve paid your first-year tuition fee, you will receive your final Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from your Canadian institution. This is an essential document for your visa application, and you should ensure that it is included in your application package.
Although some might advise you to apply under the non-SDS category without paying the first-year fee, submitting an English test score, or completing the medical and PCC requirements, this is not recommended. To increase your chances of receiving a Canadian study visa, it’s crucial to meet the standards set by the SDS category. If you fail to meet these requirements, such as submitting a low IELTS score or not providing an English test score, you are more likely to face a visa refusal.
From my experience, students with scores lower than 6.0 in any IELTS module or who submit weak English test scores often receive refusals. Even though there may be exceptions, it is generally safer to meet the standard requirements. By submitting all required documents, including a valid English test score and completing the medical examination and PCC, you will improve your chances of getting your Canadian study visa.
1.2 Why Choose GIC with ICICI Bank for Your Canada Study Visa?
Many students are hesitant about paying the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) for their Canada study visa. Some are willing to pay the first-year tuition fee but avoid the GIC, thinking that they can simply show the required funds in their bank account. However, choosing ICICI Bank for your GIC offers a significant advantage that other banks do not provide.
ICICI Bank has a great feature: you can get a full refund of your GIC amount after you land in Canada. If you deposit approximately $21,000 as part of your GIC, you will be able to receive the entire amount back once you arrive in Canada. This means you can use that money however you like – whether it’s for purchasing a car, sending it back to your home country, or covering your second-year tuition fees.
ICICI Bank offers flexible refund options: you can get the full refund either immediately after landing in Canada or within 6, 9, or 12 months. This makes it a convenient option for students, as it gives you access to your funds when you need them most.
It’s important to note that ICICI Bank’s GIC program is available in several countries. You can check the list of countries where ICICI Bank operates through the blog on the topic “GIC with ICICI Bank”. However, if ICICI Bank is not available in your country (for example, if you’re in Nigeria or another country where ICICI doesn’t operate), there are other alternatives. In such cases, you can use CIBC Bank for your GIC. Avoid using Scotia Bank, as it is not recommended for GIC deposits.
In essence, ICICI Bank offers a unique advantage by providing a full refund of your GIC upon arrival in Canada. If you are able to use ICICI Bank, it’s highly recommended to go for this option. If not, CIBC Bank is a solid alternative for your GIC.
1.3 What If GIC Is Not Available in Your Country?
If you’re from a non-SDS country where the GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) concept is not available, you might be wondering how to proceed with your Canada study visa application. While it’s ideal to provide a GIC for proof of funds, there are alternative ways to meet the requirements. If GIC is not an option in your country, you can still apply successfully by taking the following steps:
- Pay Your First Year’s Tuition Fee
If GIC isn’t available, you can compensate by paying your first-year tuition fees. This can serve as proof of sufficient funds for your studies in Canada. Paying the tuition fee upfront is a strong alternative to GIC, as it shows you have the financial capability to cover your educational expenses. - Complete Your Medical Examination
It’s recommended that you complete your medical examination in advance. This process is straightforward and can help speed up your application. - Obtain Your Final Letter of Acceptance (LoA)
Having your final LoA from the educational institution is a crucial step in the visa process. It proves that you have been officially accepted into a program in Canada. - Get Your Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
If required, obtain a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). This document is easy to acquire and demonstrates your clean criminal record. - Show Proof of Living Expenses
If GIC is unavailable in your country, you can still show proof of your living expenses. This can be done by providing funds in your home country or in any other country where you have a bank account. For example, if you’re working in the UAE, you can show funds from your UAE account. - Show Proofs of Source of Funds
However, it’s important to note that you will also need to provide proof of the source of these funds. Whether it’s from your salary, a loan, or funds given by someone else, you should have documentation that clearly explains where the money came from. This is essential to demonstrate your financial capacity to cover living expenses while studying in Canada.
- Showing Funds: More is Better
If you’re able to show more funds, it will always work in your favour. Instead of simply showing the minimum amount required, such as $21,000, it is highly beneficial to show a larger sum. For example, showing $40,000 will greatly strengthen your financial profile and improve your chances of visa approval. The general rule is: the more, the better.
- Older Funds Are More Favourable
In addition to showing larger amounts, demonstrating that these funds have been in your account for a longer period is also advantageous. The older the funds, the better it looks to the visa officer. Ideally, showing funds that are 6 months old is good, and if they are 12 months old, it’s even better. For example, if you can show a fixed deposit in your name that has been in place for 12 months, this will significantly strengthen your application.
1.3.1 Meeting Non-SDS Financial Expectations
For Non-SDS applicants, visa officers often expect you to show more funds compared to the SDS benchmark. Therefore, it’s advisable to show a higher amount than the minimum required. If you can show $25,000 CAD, that’s great. If you can show $30,000, $35,000, or even $40,000, the more the better. This demonstrates strong financial capacity and reassures the officer that you will be able to support yourself during your studies.
1.3.2 Showing Funds in Multiple Accounts and Taking Sponsorship
You can show funds from multiple accounts to meet the financial requirement. Additionally, if your parents or other family members are sponsoring you, their funds can be added as well. Ensure you provide a sponsorship letter along with the bank statements showing the funds in their accounts. This approach can further strengthen your financial evidence.
1.4 For Spouse Open Work Permit
When applying for a spouse open work permit (SOWP), many applicants may wonder how to show their funds. While some consultants may advise against applying with family due to concerns about the study visa impact, I recommend applying with your family for several reasons. The Canadian immigration rules are constantly changing, and in my experience, we’ve successfully obtained visas for entire families, husbands, wives, and children, together. In fact, we’ve handled cases for families of four, five, six, or even seven, where the entire family received their visas.
1.4.1 Why Apply with Family?
Applying together as a family ensures that you won’t face separation when the rules change. For example, if you apply for a study visa now and plan to bring your spouse later, there’s a possibility that, due to recent rule changes, you might not be able to apply for a spouse open work permit at that time. This could leave one family member in Canada and another abroad, causing unnecessary complications. By applying together, either the whole family gets the visa or none of them do, avoiding separation.
1.4.2 Showing Funds for Family
When applying with your spouse, you need to show additional funds. Here’s a breakdown:
- For a student without children: Approximately $21,000 CAD.
- For the spouse: Add around $5,000 CAD.
So, for a family of two (student + spouse), you need to show around $26,000 CAD. If you have children:
- One child: Add around $6,000 CAD, totalling $32,000 CAD.
- Two children: Add $7,000 for the second child, totalling $39,000 CAD.
1.4.3 Showing Old Funds for Spouse
Just like with the study visa application, it’s beneficial to show old funds for the spouse. Funds should be accompanied by a source of origin, whether it’s your salary, a gift, or a loan. Ideally, you should show funds that are at least 6 to 12 months old, which helps demonstrate financial stability.
Alternatively, you can transfer the entire amount to Canada, along with GIC, or open a Hello Canada account, which I discussed in the blog on the topic “GIC with ICICI Bank”.
1.4.5 Applying for Kids’ Visas
For children, it’s important to apply under the correct visa category. If your child is under five, a visitor visa may be appropriate. However, if your child is five or older, you must apply for a study visa. Failing to apply in the right category can lead to refusals, so ensure you’re submitting the correct documentation.
1.5 Apply Through Globexa
If you want to apply through Globexa, feel free to contact us, and we can proceed with your application. If you have any questions or need further details, feel free to leave your questions in the comments, and we will take care of your application.
Additionally, if you want to learn more about GIC with ICICI Bank, including recent updates regarding the withdrawal options for the entire funds, I have written a detailed blog on that topic. The link is provided here, so you can read the complete blog.
Thank you so much for reading this blog till the end. We look forward to assisting you in your application process. See you in the next blog!
