New English language tests for student direct stream have been approved by the IRCC, according to the recent update announcement. Beginning on August 10, 2023, IRCC will accept results for these four new tests.
Here are the new tests that are eligible:
- TOEFL iBT Test
- CELPIP General
- PTE Academic
- CAEL
It is extremely important that the results of every test show proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Furthermore, on the CELPIP general exams, each language-speaking ability must meet a minimum score of 7 based on the Canadian Language Benchmark.
Neither the CAEL nor PTE academic tests can be taken without a maximum score of 60. The TOEFL iBT test must be taken with an average score of 83.
Students must take these assessments in person. For applicants to the SDS, online or remote proctored tests are not acceptable. SDS applicants had previously been approved to take IELTS General and IELTS Academic by the IRCC.
Student Direct Stream – An overview
A select number of countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad, and Tobago, As well as Vietnam, offer students the opportunity to process their study permits in an expedited manner through the Student Direct Stream (SDS).
The Canadian government has a 20-day standard for processing study permit applications eligible for SDS. Students from India have become increasingly interested in the SDS since it was introduced in 2018.
Eligibility for SDS
Furthermore, students who meet these criteria must be citizens of specific countries as well as:
- Obtain a letter of acceptance from a DLI – (Designated Learning Institution) in Canada.
- Provide confirmation of completing the upfront medical exam.
- Demonstrate ownership of a GIC – (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) worth $10,000.
- Show proof of payment for the first-year tuition fees.
- Submit language test results, completed within two years of the SDS application, indicating an IELTS score of 6 in English or NCLC 7 for French.
- Apply for the study permit through a VAC – (Visa Application Centre).
Canada has become the destination for more than 800,000 international students
A record 800,000 international students will study in Canada by 2022, according to the IRCC. Since 2008, the number of international students in Canada has quadrupled as a result of several national and international factors. The Canadian government and DLI’s efforts to attract international students domestically have increased for a variety of economic, social, as well as cultural reasons. An increase in overseas students has been attributed to the expansion of the global middle class. Moreover, for overseas students, Canada’s high standards of instruction, multicultural reputation, and opportunities for employment and immigration make it an appealing place to study and live.
