What is SDS and Non-SDS application in Canada

Studying in Canada is a dream for thousands of international students every year. Canada’s reputation for quality education, affordable tuition compared to the U.S. and U.K., and student-friendly immigration policies make it one of the top destinations for higher education.

However, when applying for a Canada student visa, students often face a crucial choice: SDS (Student Direct Stream) vs. Non-SDS application. These two pathways define how your application is processed, the requirements you must meet, and even your chances of approval.

In this blog, we’ll break down SDS vs. Non-SDS applications in Canada, their eligibility requirements, benefits, limitations, and key differences—helping you make the right decision for your study abroad journey.

Canada Study Visa Pathways: SDS vs Non-SDS Explained

When planning to study in Canada, international students must choose between the SDS (Student Direct Stream) and Non-SDS routes. Each pathway has its own set of requirements, benefits, and challenges that can directly impact visa approval and processing times.

What is SDS (Student Direct Stream)?

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a fast-track visa processing system for international students from certain countries, including India, China, Philippines, Pakistan, and Vietnam, among others. It is designed for students who can demonstrate financial stability and strong English or French language proficiency.

With SDS, students typically get their visa decision within 20 days, making it highly attractive for those with upcoming intake deadlines.

Key SDS Features:

• Faster processing (SDS visa processing time: ~20 days)
  
• Higher approval chances if all requirements are met
  
• Requires upfront proof of financial capability through GIC requirement Canada (Guaranteed Investment Certificate of CAD $10,000)
  

What is Non-SDS?

The Non-SDS stream is the regular study permit application process for students who don’t meet all SDS criteria. It applies to students from all countries, regardless of nationality.

This stream is often chosen by students who:

• Have a lower IELTS score than required for SDS
  
• Cannot arrange a GIC before applying
  
• Need flexibility in documentation
  

Key Non-SDS Features:

• Processing time is longer (often 8–12 weeks)
  
• Approval depends on the Non-SDS document checklist
  
• Slightly lower Non-SDS visa approval rate compared to SDS
  

SDS Visa Benefits

Choosing SDS offers multiple advantages for eligible students:

1. Faster Approval – Most SDS applications are processed within 20 days.
   
2. Higher Approval Rates – Meeting strict requirements means stronger applications.
   
3. Financial Proof Simplified – Instead of multiple bank statements, the GIC requirement Canada ensures proof of funds.
   
4. Transparent Process – Streamlined and consistent evaluation criteria.
   

Student Direct Stream Requirements (SDS)

To apply under SDS, you must meet the following:

1. IELTS requirement SDS – Overall 6.0 band with no less than 6.0 in each skill (or equivalent CELPIP/TEF score).
   
2. GIC requirement Canada – Purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate of CAD $10,000.
   
3. First-year tuition fee paid in advance.
   
4. Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
   
5. Medical exam (if applicable).
   
6. Police clearance certificate (if required by your country).
   

Non-SDS Document Checklist

If you apply through the Non-SDS stream, you’ll need:

• Proof of funds (bank statements, loan approval letters, income tax documents, etc.)
  
• IELTS or other test results (lower than SDS minimums may still be accepted)
  
• Tuition payment receipt
  
• Letter of acceptance from a DLI
  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  
• Academic transcripts and certificates
  
• Medical and police certificates (if applicable)
  

This makes the Non-SDS process more flexible, but also more document-heavy.

IELTS Requirement: SDS vs. Non-SDS

• SDS IELTS Requirement: Minimum 6.0 in each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
  
• Non-SDS IELTS Requirement: No fixed minimum. Even students with overall 5.5–6.0 bands may apply, provided they can strengthen their application with other documents.
  

GIC Requirement in Canada

One of the major differences between SDS and Non-SDS is the GIC requirement Canada.

• SDS: Mandatory to deposit CAD $10,000 in a Canadian bank (Scotiabank, ICICI Canada, RBC, etc.). This covers your living expenses for the first year.
  
• Non-SDS: GIC is not mandatory, but you must show proof of funds (bank balance, loans, sponsor’s income).
  

SDS Visa Processing Time vs. Non-SDS

• SDS Visa Processing Time: Approximately 20 calendar days.
  
• Non-SDS Processing Time: Usually 8–12 weeks, depending on the volume of applications and country of residence.
  

Non-SDS Visa Approval Rate vs. SDS

• SDS Approval Rate: Higher, as students applying are financially stable and meet language requirements.
  
• Non-SDS Approval Rate: Slightly lower, as applications are scrutinized more closely and often involve additional proof.
  

SDS vs. Non-SDS: Key Differences

Feature	SDS (Student Direct Stream)	Non-SDS (General Stream)
Eligibility	Limited to certain countries	Open to all countries
IELTS Requirement SDS	Minimum 6.0 in each band	Flexible (may accept 5.5 in some cases)
Financial Proof	GIC of CAD $10,000 + 1st year tuition paid	Bank statements, loans, sponsors, etc.
SDS Visa Processing Time	~20 days	8–12 weeks
Approval Rate	Higher	Lower
Document Checklist	Standardized	More complex & varied

Which Path Should You Choose: SDS or Non-SDS?

• Choose SDS if:
  • You meet the IELTS requirement SDS (6.0 in each skill).
    
  • You can arrange the GIC requirement Canada.
    
  • You want fast processing and a higher approval rate.
• Choose Non-SDS if:
  • You don’t meet the strict IELTS band requirements.
    
  • You cannot arrange a GIC before applying.
    
  • You need flexibility in documentation.
    

Canada Student Visa Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Get an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
   
2. Decide between SDS vs. Non-SDS application.
   
3. Pay tuition fee (first year in case of SDS).
   
4. Arrange financial proof (GIC for SDS or other funds for Non-SDS).
   
5. Take the IELTS or equivalent test.
   
6. Collect required documents (academic, financial, medical, police).
   
7. Apply online for your Canada student visa.
   
8. Wait for approval and prepare for travel.
   

Tips for a Successful Canadian Student Visa Application

1. Pay at least 1 year tuition fees in advance.
   
2. Purchase the GIC of CAD $10,000 to prove financial stability.
   
3. Write a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP).
   
4. Submit IELTS scores of 6.0 or higher (for SDS).
   
5. Apply early to avoid delays.
   
6. Ensure all documents are translated and notarized if not in English/French.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between SDS and Non-SDS applications in Canada depends on your financial readiness, IELTS score, and personal circumstances.

• SDS offers faster processing, higher approval chances, and a simplified financial proof system.
  
• Non-SDS provides flexibility for students who may not meet all SDS requirements but are still determined to study in Canada.
  

Whichever path you choose, planning ahead, preparing strong documentation, and understanding the requirements will help maximize your chances of securing a Canada student visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is SDS in Canada student visa?

SDS (Student Direct Stream) is a fast-track visa process for eligible students from certain countries, offering quicker processing and higher approval rates.

2. What is the difference between SDS and Non-SDS in Canada?

SDS has fewer documents, faster processing, and higher approval chances, while Non-SDS requires more financial proof and has a slower approval process.

3. What are the SDS visa benefits?

The benefits include faster processing (20 days–6 weeks), higher approval rate, simplified documentation, and eligibility for certain countries.

4. What are the Non-SDS document checklist requirements?

Applicants must submit proof of funds, tuition payment receipt, IELTS/TOEFL scores, SOP, medical exam, and sometimes police clearance.

5. What is the IELTS requirement SDS?

Applicants must score at least 6.0 bands in each skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) for SDS eligibility.

6. What is the GIC requirement Canada for SDS?

Students must purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD $10,000 from a Canadian bank.

7. What is the SDS visa processing time?

The average SDS visa processing time is 20 days to 6 weeks, compared to 3–4 months for Non-SDS.

8. What is the Non-SDS visa approval rate?

Non-SDS visas have a lower approval rate due to stricter financial scrutiny and more document requirements.

9. Can I apply under SDS without IELTS?

No, SDS requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 in each band. Without IELTS, you must apply through Non-SDS.

10. Which is better: SDS or Non-SDS for Canada student visa?

If eligible, SDS is better due to faster processing and higher approval chances. Non-SDS is suitable if you don’t meet SDS requirements.