In addition to the different types of institutions and degrees offered, the Canadian education system has several other unique features. For example, there is a strong emphasis on research and innovation, and many universities have partnerships with industry to promote collaboration and knowledge transfer. There is also a focus on experiential learning, where students can gain practical skills and work experience through internships, co-op programs, and other hands-on learning opportunities.
Another notable feature of the Canadian education system is its multiculturalism and diversity. With a large number of international students coming from all over the world, Canadian universities and colleges are known for their welcoming and inclusive environments. Many institutions offer support services for international students, such as language classes and cultural events, to help them adjust to life in Canada.
Finally, the Canadian education system is known for its high quality and rigorous standards. Many Canadian universities and colleges are ranked among the top in the world, and degrees from Canadian institutions are highly respected and recognized globally. Overall, studying in Canada can be a rewarding experience for students looking for a world-class education in a welcoming and diverse environment.
SDS Scheme
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a program launched by the Canadian government that offers faster processing time for study permit applications from certain countries, including India, China, the Philippines, and Vietnam . The goal of the SDS program is to make the process of obtaining a study permit faster and more efficient, while ensuring that students meet the necessary requirements for studying in Canada.
To be eligible for the SDS program, students must meet the following requirements :
Be a legal resident of one of the eligible countries
Have an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution in Canada
Pay the tuition fees for the first year of their program
Obtain a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000 CAD from a participating Canadian financial institution to cover living expenses
Provide proof of English or French language proficiency
Submit a medical exam, if required
If all eligibility criteria are met, the processing time for the study permit application under the SDS program is typically around 20 calendar days . This is significantly faster than the regular processing time for study permit applications, which can take several months.
Overall, the SDS program provides a streamlined and efficient process for international students from eligible countries to study in Canada. It offers a faster processing time for study permit applications, making it easier and more convenient for students to pursue their academic and career goals in Canada.
Non SDS scheme
The Non-SDS (Student Direct Stream) scheme is another option for international students who want to study in Canada. However, unlike the SDS program, the Non-SDS program does not offer expedited processing times for study permit applications.
To be eligible for the Non-SDS program, students must meet the following requirements:
Meet the language proficiency requirements in either English or French
Have an acceptance letter from a designated learning institution in Canada
Provide proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses
Provide evidence of a clean criminal record
Pass a medical exam if required
The processing time for study permit applications under the Non-SDS program varies depending on the country of origin, time of year, and other factors. Typically, it can take several months for a study permit application to be processed under the Non-SDS program.
While the Non-SDS program does not offer expedited processing times, it is still a viable option for international students who meet the eligibility requirements. With the right planning and preparation, students can successfully apply for a study permit under the Non-SDS program and pursue their academic and career goals in Canada.
Post Study Work- Canada
International students who have completed a program of study in Canada are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada for a specified period of time. The duration of the PGWP depends on the length of the program of study, as follows:
Programs of less than 8 months: Not eligible for PGWP
Programs between 8 months and 2 years: PGWP duration will be equal to the length of the program
Programs of 2 years or more: PGWP duration will be 3 years
To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must have completed a full-time program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada and must have a valid study permit at the time of application. They must also apply for the PGWP within 180 days of receiving their final grades, and meet the minimum academic requirements (such as a minimum GPA of 2.5 out of 4.0).
Once a student has obtained a PGWP, they can work for any employer in Canada, including full-time work without the need for a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The PGWP can also be used as a pathway to permanent residency in Canada.
