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Is there still a special SDS English test requirement for my Canada study permit?

24 Sept 2026 · Answered by Soundarya M · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

No, since Canada discontinued its Student Direct Stream (SDS) in November 2024, there is no SDS-specific English test requirement anymore. Every study permit application, including yours from India, is now processed through the standard study permit stream, without any separate fast-track English test rule to follow.

Soundarya M
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No, you no longer face a separate SDS English test requirement, because Canada discontinued the Student Direct Stream entirely in November 2024. Your application now follows the same regular study permit stream as everyone else's.

SDS Requirement vs Current Process

Then (Under SDS)Now
Separate SDS-specific English test ruleNo longer exists
Fast-track SDS processing streamDiscontinued in November 2024
Application pathway for Indian studentsRegular study permit stream

What You Need Instead

You still need to meet the standard study permit's English proficiency and financial requirements, but there is no distinct SDS checklist to follow anymore. Your application is assessed under the same general criteria that apply to students from any country.

My Advice

Follow only the current, regular study permit checklist for your English test and finances, and ignore any older guides online that still describe SDS-specific rules, since that stream simply does not exist anymore.

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