July 25, 2018 – Canada’s new Student Direct Stream could be a masterstroke as it tries to attract more skilled workers.
It represents a continuation of the Canadian government strategy of attracting international students as a first step towards permanent residence.
Canadian officials are shifting the focus from international students coming here just to get a respected degree, towards coming to start a new life.
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SDS, which offers expedited Study Permit processing for qualifying students from India, China, the Philippines and Vietnam, could prove to be an important draw in a competitive market. There are also plans to expand it to include Kenya and Senegal.
Universities in the U.S., U.K., Australia and others are all competing with Canada for international students.
Canada is attempting to offer a clear pathway from Study Permit to permanent residence to make itself an attractive destination.
The expedited processing of the SDS, added to the significantly lower tuition fees when compared to the U.S. for a top-level education, could see students flood here.
How Do I Qualify for the Student Direct Stream?
The first step is to be accepted by a designated Canadian learning institution. Applicants must then submit up front proof of:
- Tuition payment for the first year of study.
- Purchase of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate of $10,000,
- Completion of an upfront medical examination,
- Qualifying score of at least 6 for English (IELTS), or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens score of 7 for French (TEF), or graduation from a Canadian-curriculum high school.
Why Canada Covets International Students
Canada has targeted international students since the current federal Liberal government came to power in 2015. They are viewed as key new permanent residents, given their age, Canadian education, Canadian life experience and language ability.
IRCC tweaked the Express Entry System in November 2016 to introduce more points for international graduates from Canadian universities.
What are the Extra CRS Points for Canadian Education?
Education Level | Number of Points |
High school | 0 |
One or two-year post secondary | 15 |
Three-year post secondary, master’s, professional degree or doctorate | 30 |
How to Get A Post Graduation Work Permit
International graduates can also access the Post Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to work after graduation. The work experience gained can then be used to strengthen an application for permanent residence.
Interested employers: Kindly contact us here to receive further information.
Interested candidates: Find out whether you qualify to Canada by completing our free on-line evaluation. We will provide you with our evaluation within 1-2 business days.
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