New English Proficiency Tests Approved for Canadian Student Direct Stream (SDS) Applications
Introduction:
Exciting news for students aspiring to study in Canada! The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced the approval of three English language proficiency tests, namely PTE Academic, CAEL, and CELPIP, for all Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications. This means that students from eligible countries can now utilize scores from these tests as proof of their English language proficiency when applying for study permits in Canada. In this blog post, we will explain the significance of this updated approval and provide simplified information on the language requirements under the SDS program for students.
What is the Student Direct Stream (SDS)?
The SDS is an expedited study permit process designed for students who wish to study in Canada. It offers faster processing times for study permit applications for students from specific countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for priority processing under the SDS, the study permit application must be submitted by a legal resident of one of the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, or Vietnam.
Additionally, applicants must provide the following documents at the time of their study permit application:
- An acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (postsecondary).
- Evidence of payment of tuition fees for the first year of study at the designated learning institution mentioned above.
- A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAN$10,000.
- A medical examination (as per the IRPA).
- Police verification certificate.
- Recent transcripts from secondary or postsecondary education.
- Language test results (details mentioned below).
- Applicants intending to study in Quebec must also have a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration.
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Language Requirements under the SDS:
To demonstrate English language proficiency for SDS applications, applicants must provide results from approved language tests. The acceptable tests and minimum score requirements are as follows:
General Language Tests:
IELTS General (Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of at least 7 for each language ability).
*CELPIP General (CLB score of at least 7 for each language ability).
TEF Canada (CLB score of at least 7 for each language ability).
TCF Canada (CLB score of at least 7 for each language ability).
Academic Language Tests:
IELTS Academic (minimum score of 6 for each language ability).
*CAEL (minimum score of 60).
*Pearson PTE Academic (minimum score of 60 for each language ability).
TEF – 5 exams (minimum score of 400 for each language ability).
TCF – all public (minimum score of 400 for each language ability).
ETS TOEFL iBT Test:
For academic language proficiency, a minimum score of 83 is required for each language ability.
It’s important to note that all language tests mentioned above must be taken in person, and online remotely proctored tests will not be accepted for the SDS program. Therefore, test takers should ensure they take the appropriate in-person version of the test.
Significance of PTE Academic, CAEL, and CELPIP Approval:
The recent approval by IRCC allows applicants applying through the SDS to use PTE Academic, CAEL, and CELPIP as valid English language proficiency tests. This recognition showcases the growing acceptance and reliability of these tests in assessing language skills. By accepting these tests, IRCC provides students with more options and flexibility when selecting a language test for their study permit applications.
Effective Dates and Application Dispositions:
Starting from August 10, 2023, PTE Academic, CAEL, and CELPIP scores will be accepted for SDS applications. However, it’s important to note that PTE Academic tests taken before this date will be eligible for SDS only if they are submitted after August 10 and fall within the expiry period specified by IRCC. Applicants are advised to consult the IRCC guidance or contact our counselors for further information.
Conclusion:
The recent approval of PTE Academic, CAEL, and CELPIP by IRCC for SDS applications is fantastic news for students aspiring to study in Canada. With these additional options for English language proficiency tests, applicants can choose the test that best suits their needs and abilities. Remember to carefully review the specific requirements and guidelines provided by IRCC or contact our experts at Career Abroad Visa and Immigration firm for information to ensure a smooth application process. Best of luck with your study abroad journey!
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