How Recent Changes Are Shaping Canada's Academic Environment for International Students?

Effective November 2024, IRCC has officially discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) visa programs.
SDS and NSE were initially designed to expedite the processing of study permits for international students. SDS benefitted students from 14 countries, including India, China, Pakistan, and the Philippines.

From now on, all study permit applications will be submitted through the standard application process. This change aims to ensure a more equitable and streamlined application process for all international students.

Start Early with Your Study Permit Application!

Starting your study permit application early is crucial to navigating the updated process smoothly. The discontinuation of the SDS makes processing times longer for all international students. By submitting your application well in advance, you can avoid the stress of potential delays.

By starting early, you give yourself ample time to gather required documents, address any issues, and meet any deadlines, giving you the best chance of securing your study permit on time.

Processing times vary by country. For example, as of November 8, the average processing time for study permit applications from India is approximately eight weeks. So, begin the study application process early to help you secure your study permit without the pressure of tight deadlines.

Our team at ImmiLaw Global is here to support you throughout the application process. For expert guidance, please contact us. 

How Will Recent Changes Impact Your Study Permit Applications

Applications Submitted Before November 8:

Suppose you submit your study permit application before 2:00 PM ET on November 8, then it will be processed under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) or Nigeria Student Express (NSE) streams, depending on your eligibility. You can expect faster processing times and potentially higher approval rates.

What Happens to Applications Submitted After November 8?

Applications submitted after the November 8 cutoff will no longer be processed under the expedited SDS or NSE streams. Instead, they will follow the regular study permit processing route, resulting in longer wait times. Please prepare yourself mentally for potentially longer processing times and plan accordingly.

How are Canada's International Student Policies Changing in 2024?

In 2024, the federal government introduced several new measures to regulate the number of temporary residents in Canada, including study and work permit holders. These changes were brought to manage the growing demand for study permits. IRCC ensures that the international student program remains sustainable and aligned with Canada's long-term immigration strategy.

If you plan to study in Canada, you must be aware of the following recent changes to the international student program in 2024:

• Cap on New Study Permits: Starting in 2025, Canada will implement a cap on new study permits, with the limit set at 437,000 permits. This includes permits for master's and PhD students, aiming to manage the influx of international students.
• New Eligibility Criteria for PGWP: Students seeking a post-graduate work permit (PGWP) must meet new language and field of study requirements, which may affect the types of programs eligible for work permits after graduation.
• Limited Work Permits for Spouses: The availability of work permits for spouses of international students will be more limited, reducing the ability for spouses to work while accompanying students to Canada.
• Updated Cost-of-Living Requirement: The cost-of-living requirement for international students applying for a Canadian study permit has been updated, impacting the amount of funds students must demonstrate to qualify for a study permit.

What is SDS?

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced the Student Direct Stream (SDS) in 2018. The program aims to streamline and speed up the study permit application process for students from select countries, such as India, China, the Philippines, and several others.

Students could receive their permits in weeks rather than months by meeting specific criteria, such as financial and academic requirements. The SDS also included applicants from countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, Colombia, Morocco, Pakistan, and Vietnam, providing a quicker, more efficient route to studying in Canada.

What is Nigeria Student Express (NSE)?

The Nigeria Student Express (NSE) was a Canadian immigration program designed specifically for Nigerian students seeking to study in Canada.
NSE provided a faster and more efficient route for study permit applications, similar to the SDS. Eligible Nigerian applicants had benefitted from expedited processing times, making it easier for them to obtain a study permit. However, they must now apply via the regular study permit stream, similar to applicants from all other countries.

Why Did Canada Discontinue the SDS and NSE Programs?

Canada's decision to end the SDS and NSE programs is due to strengthening the integrity and fairness of its immigration processes. Let us explore in detail:

1. Strengthening Program Integrity: By discontinuing the SDS and NSE, IRCC intends to enhance the reliability and transparency of Canada's immigration system. This move ensures that all study permit applications are subjected to a consistent and thorough review process, reducing the risk of discrepancies.
2. Addressing Vulnerabilities: The government has acknowledged challenges such as fraud, misrepresentation, and exploitation faced by international students. Eliminating specialized streams can help the Canadian immigration system better monitor applications and minimize such risks.
3. Ensuring Equal Opportunity for All Applicants: Canada's reputation as an inclusive nation has attracted students globally. To maintain fairness, IRCC has streamlined the study permit process, providing all applicants—regardless of their country of origin—an equal chance to study in Canada.
4. Enhancing the Academic Experience: IRCC aims to offer international students a positive and rewarding academic experience. By refining the application process, Canada seeks to attract genuine, dedicated and diverse international students.

International students seeking admission to Canadian institutions must regularly check the latest updates on the IRCC website or consult with authorized immigration advisors to ensure they are informed about any changes in study permit requirements or procedures.

Canada is shaping its academic environment, encouraging more meritorious international students from worldwide to its land. So, make sure that you, as an aspiring student, meet all the requirements and submit the application on time to explore the new horizon.

If you are still confused about the study permit process or need additional guidance, ImmiLaw Global is here to help. Our team consists of overseas study experts and a proficient immigration lawyer. We provide expert advice, assist with document preparation, and ensure your application meets all the necessary requirements. Contact us for personalized support and kick-starting your educational journey.

Feel free to contact us for more details

Read to Know: What Are the Key Steps to Get PR After Studying in Canada?