Study in Canada

The concept of gap years is relatively new in Canada, but it is gaining traction rapidly. To defer admission in Canada, you must have an acceptance letter from a Canadian designated learning institution. Next, you need to contact the university’s admissions office for a deferred admission form and outline your gap year plans.

Table of Contents

• What is Deferred Entry?
• Step-by-Step Process to Defer Admission in Canada 
• Difference Between Deferred and Waitlisted
• Important Points for Canada Deferred Enrollment
• Universities in Canada Accepting Deferred Admission 

What is Deferred Entry?

In simple terms, deferred entry means 'delayed entry. It is perfectly fine to defer your admission by one year if you are not ready to join the university. If you decide to defer intake in Canada, you can utilize this time to develop new skills, gain work experience, recharge and refresh yourself before committing to around 3-4 years of studies.

As per the Quacquarelli Symonds survey of more than 2,800 international students willing to study in Canada, 54 per cent of those polled decided to defer admission for a year in 2020/21 due to the unfamiliar learning environment.

Step-by-Step Process to Defer Admission in Canada 

The general process to defer admission in Canada remains the same across universities. However, there might be certain changes in the process depending on the educational institution. Let us now look at the step-by-step procedure to defer admission intake in Canada:

• Step 1: Go to the official website of the Canadian university, fill out the application form, and receive the acceptance letter.
• Step 2: Ensure that you meet all the requirements in your offer letter before you apply for deferred entry.
• Step 3: Request a deferred admission form from the admissions board of the university. Explain all the valid reasons for taking a gap year.
• Step 4: Wait for the institution to decide whether or not to accept or deny your deferred admission 
• Step 5: Keep track of any scholarships or financial aid you have applied for during the year of your deferred admission.

Difference Between Deferred and Waitlisted

Students often get confused between the terms ‘deferred’ and ‘waitlisted’. The table below shows the differences between these two terms:

Important Points for Canada Deferred Enrollment

Candidates who wish to defer their admission intake in Canada must remember the points given below:

• Prior to applying for a deferred intake, candidates must provide an acceptance letter from the Canadian institution for study permit extensions and applications.
• Deferred enrolment after submitting study permit application: 
• The officials will continue processing the study permit application if less than 150 days have elapsed since the planned start of the program. In this case, a new admission letter is not needed.
• Admission officials will request a new acceptance letter if more than 150 days have passed since the commencement of the program.

Universities in Canada Accepting Deferred Admission

If you have already been accepted by a Canadian institution, you must notify the admission board of the university within the stipulated time frame. Please click the 'Click here' button to find out more. 

Note: Universities such as the University of Waterloo and the University of British Columbia allow deferred entry requests sometime around mid-August of the academic year in which you have applied.

Are you looking to pursue an animation course in Canada? A few of the top animation schools in Canada include Sheridan College, OCAD University, Vancouver Film School, among others

These animation institutes provide a plethora of opportunities for students and are known for producing Oscar winning alumni and professional experts. Explore some of the best animation schools in Canada through this article.

List of Top 10 Animation Schools in Canada

Canada is home to a number of animation schools that offer basic to advanced degrees and certificate programs in animation. Here is the list of the top 10 animation schools in Canada:

• Sheridan College
• Max the Mutt College of Animation, Art & Design
• OCAD University
• Seneca College
• Vancouver Film School
• Capilano University
• Emily Carr University Of Art And Design
• The Art Institute of Vancouver
• Vancouver Institute Of Media Arts
• Visual College of Art And Design Of Vancouver (VCAD)

Sheridan College

Founded in 1967, Sheridan College is one of the leading animation schools in Canada. The college offers an Honors Bachelor of Animation program wherein you will learn from highly qualified industry professionals. They follow a hands-on training approach and encourage students to develop a creative mindset. One fo the best things about the program is that you will get an opportunity to gain industry experience through a three-month internship. Following are the top animation courses offered by Sheridan College, along with other details:

Max the Mutt College of Animation, Art & Design

Established in 1997, Max the Mutt College offers a wide range of animation and design courses. You can pursue diploma courses in Classical Animation, Concept Art for Animationa and Video Games, and Illustration & Storytelling for Sequential Arts. The college follows a unique curriculum that is constantly reviewed and updated by working professionals. Here are the most popular animation courses available at Max the Mutt College, including some other necessary details:

OCAD University

Popularly known as OCAD University, the Ontario College of Art & Design University is one of the renowned animation schools in Canada. The institute provides top-notch programs in the area of animation. The Digital Painting and Expanded Animation program of OCAD is a 4-year program wherein you will explore the field of digital media and painting including traditional painting methods, digital tablet painting and animation. The table below provides information about the top animation courses offered by OCAD University:

Read More: OCAD University

Seneca College

Seneca College is the perfect institution for aspiring animators and video game designers. The college is known for its arts, animation, and design programs. Here you will find animation programs in areas like 3D Animation, Visual Effects for Film and Television, and Game Art and Animation. The college provides experiential learning and engaging curriculum for students around the world. Here are the top animation programs offered by Seneca College in the animation field:

Read More: Seneca College

Vancouver Film School

If you are looking to specialize in a particular field of animation, Vancouver Film School (VFS) is the best option for you! The school prepares students for careers in animation, programming, acting, screenwriting, game design, and much more. At Vancouver Film School, you can pursue animation programs such as 3D Animation & Visual Effects, Classical Animation, and Animation Concept Art. Check out the important details of these animation programs:

Capilano University

Capilano University is ranked among the top animation schools in Canada. Based in North Vancouver, British Columbia, the university offers some of the finest courses in 2D and 3D animation. Capilano University graduates can easily be  recruited by studios such as 20th Century Fox, Nerd Corps, Radical Entertainment, etc. The top courses offered by Capilo University are given as follows:

Read More: Capilano University

Emily Carr University Of Art And Design

Emily Carr University of Art and Design is one of the best animation schools in Canada  and it endeavors to provide higher-level degrees with four faculties giving leading art, design, media degree programs, certificates, continuing education courses, graduate studies, and research opportunities. The table below provides information about the popular animation programs available at the Emily Carr University Of Art And Design:

Read More: Emily Carr University Of Art And Design

The Art Institute of Vancouver

The Art Institute of Vancouver offers an Animation Art and Design degree program for animation enthusiasts. Through this program, you can become more familiar with traditional forms of animation while also having heavy exposure to 3D effects, rendering, and even videogame connections. The most popular animation courses offered by the Art Institute of Vancouver are given below:

Vancouver Institute Of Media Arts

Vancouver Institute of Media Arts is like a dream college for Animation aspirants. The Institute boasts of some innovative courses to make a student more advanced and skilled in their forte. Courses Offered in Vancouver are 2D/ 3D Character Animation, Digital Photography, Game Art and Design, Visual Effects for Film and Television. Let us now look at the top animation courses offered by the Vancouver Institute Of Media Arts:

Visual College of Art And Design Of Vancouver (VCAD)

The primary motive of VCAD is to expose students to a top-notch form of education that is not limited by what they want to do or where they come from. In searching for this, VCAD often surrounds students with incredibly proficient professors and colleagues in varying art forms, allowing you to develop your animation skills alongside situations of collaboration and comparison. Here the major animation programs available at the Visual College of Art And Design Of Vancouver:

As an international student planning to study in Canada, you might be interested in knowing about some of the oldest universities in Canada. You will be surprised to know that these Canadian universities have been in operation for almost 2 centuries! Lets take a look at some of the oldest institutions in Canada that are still regarded as world-class academic institutions.

List of Top 10 Oldest Universities in Canada

Canada is home to some of the finest and oldest higher education institutions in the world. Here is the list of top 10 oldest universities in Canada:

• Laval University
• University of Toronto
• The University of King’s College
• McGill University
• University of New Brunswick
• The University of Western Ontario
• University of Manitoba
• Saint Mary’s University
• Dalhousie University
• University of St.Boniface

Laval University

One of the oldest universities in Canada, Laval University was established by the issue of a royal charter in 1663. Located in Quebec, it is one of the premier research centres in the country with four Canada Excellence Research Chairs and a team of researchers dedicated to advancing projects like Crispr, cancer screening, and the ebola vaccine.

There are more than 500 undergraduate and postgraduate programs offered by Laval University. With its beautiful campus and world-class facilities, the university provides a unique campus experience to students around the world. Take a look at the admission requirements of Laval University:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Statement of purpose
• English and French language proficiency proof
  • TOEFL: 79
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • PTE: 59
• Letter of recommendation
• Valid passport and visa
• Proof of financial support

Read More: Laval University

University of Toronto

Ranked #25 in QS World University Rankings 2022, the University of Toronto is one of the top universities in Canada. Being one of Canada’s oldest universities, it was established as Kings College through a royal charter in 1827. More than 700 undergradate and 200 postgraduate programs are offered by the University of Toronto in a wide variety of subject areas.

Apart from academics, the university offers their students a vibrant campus life where they can choose from more than 1000 different organisations and groups for students as per their interests. The alumni network of this esteemed university consists of more than 5,60,000 highly established people worldwide. Given below are the eligibility requirements to apply for the University of Toronto:

• Academic transcipts
• English language proficiency test scores 
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • TOEFL: 100
• GRE/GMAT scores (for business courses)
• Two letters of recommendations (for MS)
• CV/Resume (if applicable)
• Statement of Purpose/Essay

Read More: University of Toronto

The University of King’s College

The oldest chartered university in Canada, the University of King’s College was founded in Windsor, Nova Scotia in 1789. The first English-speaking university in the Commonwealth of Nations outside the UK, it is highly acclaimed for its interdisciplinary academic programs. 

Another benefit of studying in this university is getting access to the joint resources of the University of King’s College and the Dalhousie University, due to their joint academic partnership. This also gives you a chance to choose from more than 2500 courses, more than 60-degree options and a variety of exchange programs. To apply to the University of King’s College, applicant must meet the following requirements:

• Official Transcripts
• SAT/ACT Scores 
• Statement of Purpose
• Portfolio (Graduate Admissions)
• 2 Letters of Recommendations (Graduate Admissions)
• English proficiency scores
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • TOEFL: 90
• Proof of Identity
• Bank Statements

McGill University

McGill University is a public university founded in Montreal, Canada in 1821. Counted among the oldest universities in Canada, this university holds the 31st rank globally according to the QS World University Rankings 2021. The university consists of 12 faculties and 14 schools, offering degrees in different fields including law, arts, music, science, dentistry, education, engineering etc. 

Apart from bachelor’s and master’s programs, the university also offers a range of different certificate and diploma programs that students can choose from. The alumni of this university consist of notable people spread over 180 countries around the world. Here are the admission requirements to apply for McGill University:

• Official transcripts
• English proficiency test scores 
• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEFL: 90
• Letter of recommendations 
• Valid passport
• GMAT/GRE (if applicable)
• Statement of Purpose
• CV/Resume

Read More: McGill University

University of New Brunswick

One of Canada’s well-known universities, the University of New Brunswick was founded in 1785 in Fredericton. One of the oldest universities in Canada, it offers world-class programs in a diverse range of subjects.

The university is spread across 2 campuses where students can choose from more than 75 programs of study. The University of New Brunswick offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in over 60 disciplines, which includes the arts, education, engineering, health, law, science, nursing etc. Check out the eligibility requirements of the University of New Brunswick:

• Transcripts and other academic requirements
• English proficiency test score
• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEFL: 85
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Financial documentation
• Current resume
• Acceptance letter
• Proof of financial support

Read More: University of New Brunswick

The University of Western Ontario

The University of Western Ontario, also popularly known as Western University, is among the oldest universities in Canada. Founded in 1878 as the Western University of London, Ontario by Bishop Isaac Hellmuth, it initially hosted only four faculties – Arts, Medicine, Divinity and Law. 

The university is currently divided into 17 faculties which include music, law, social sciences, business, health sciences, engineering etc. The university offers more than 500 different programs at the undergraduate level and around 160 programs at the postgraduate and doctoral levels. Western University ranks at the 201st position in the QS World University Rankings 2022. Check out the eligibility requirements of the University of New Brunswick:

• Transcripts and other academic requirements
• English proficiency test score
• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEFL: 85
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Financial documentation
• Current resume
• Acceptance letter
• Proof of financial support

Read More: The University of Western Ontario

University of Manitoba

The first university in western Canada, the University of Manitoba is one of the oldest universities in Canada. It was founded in 1877, it is the only research-intensive institution in the province of Manitoba in Canada. The university is divided into 24 faculties along with 3 colleges. 

The prospective students of this university can choose from more than 100 different courses of study across multiple schools, colleges and faculties. The university has over 1,45,000 alumni spread over 140 countries around the world. The global rank of the University of Manitoba is between 601-650 according to the QS World University Rankings 2022. Some of the eligibility requirements of the University of Manitoba:

• High school records
• Official transcripts
• Letter of Recommendation
• Study permit
• School report form
• Teacher evaluation
• English proficiency test scores
• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEFL: 86
• Proof of financial availability
• CV
• Work Experience proof (if applicable)
• GRE/ GMAT scores (if required)

Read More: University of Manitoba

Saint Mary’s University

The next on our list of oldest universities in Canada is Saint Mary’s University which is located in Nova Scotia and was initially established as a boys’ school. According to Maclean’s magazine 2021, the university ranks 4th in Canada. The university has a multicultural environment with a campus that spread over a land of 80-acres. 

Saint Mary’s University provides students with academic degrees in the fields of Business, Liberal Arts, Environmental Studies, Science, and Engineering. The university has a skilled and expert faculty to provide theoretical and practical exposure to students. Having a strong partnership with many institutions helps in providing employment opportunities for students. The university has attracted students from over 100 countries across the world. To secure a seat at Saint Mary’s University, candidates must meet the eligibility requirements given below:

• Application Form
• Official Transcripts
• English Proficiency Test Scores
• TOEFL: 80
• IELTS: 6.5
• Valid Passport
• Statement of Purpose
• Acceptance Letter 
• Proof of Financial Ability
• Proof of English Language Proficiency
• GRE/GMAT scores
• Letter of Recommendation

Read More: Saint Mary’s University

Dalhousie University

Dalhousie University is located in Nova Scotia and was established in 1818. The academic training at the university focuses on interactive learning, work-integrated, and research-oriented programs to enhance knowledge in students. Dalhousie University has had 250+ startup programs and has been the recipient of 4 Killiam prizes since 2005. It has also been listed among the top 100 universities for creating a social impact by the Times Higher Education. 

The University offers over 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It has 3 campuses and exhibits a warm approach to bring together multiple communities. It has attracted many students globally by providing excellent facilities and supporting them with over 400 clubs, tailored communities, and societies. The admission requirements of Dalhousie University are listed as follows:

• Transcripts
• Acceptance letter
• GRE/GMAT scores
• Resume
• Letter of reference
• Statement of purpose
• Financial proof
• English proficiency
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • TOEFL: 90
• Passport

Read More: Dalhousie University

University of St.Boniface

Located in Manitoba, Saint Boniface is a French-spoken university. It is one of the oldest universities in Western Canada and has a significant reputation for students who wish to pursue their studies in French programs. It is affiliated with the University of Manitoba and offers students academic opportunities in many programs with Arts being its strength. 

The university also has special programs for students who wish to pursue interesting career options like ‘Translators’ which is a burgeoning option owing to globalized and multicultural environments in industries. Saint Boniface university provides students with many facilities and resources to excel in their interests, projects, and cultural activities. Given below are the admission requirements of the University of St. Boniface:

• Official transcripts 
• Letter in 500 words in French language 
• Updated CV in French 
• Name and email of 2 respondents (one scholarly and one professional) 
• Proof of French and English language proficiency
• IELTS: 5.5
• TOEFL: 46 to 59
• DALF: C1
• TCF: B2
• Passport
• Proof of financial support

Read More: University of St.Boniface

Are you planning to study in Canada? If yes, then you must know the importance of medical test for Canada student visa. It is an essential requirement for both temporary and permanent residence applications. Learn everything you need to know about medical tests for Canada student visa through this article.

Table of Contents

• What Medical Tests are Conducted for Canada Student Visa?
• What Happens During Medical Test for Visa?
• Is it Required to Take a Medical Exam to Work in Canada?
• Who Can Conduct Your Medical Exam?
• When Should you get your Medical Test Done?
  
  • Getting the Test Before Submitting your Application
  • Getting the Test After Submitting your Application
• Important Requirements
• What Should you Expect During your Medical Test?
• What all do you need to Pay for?
• Result and Validation

What Medical Tests are Conducted for Canada Student Visa?

IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) pre-approves a panel of physicians to examine the health of an individual for Canadian immigration purposes. This ensures that an individual’s immigration status is not denied due to medical reasons. In addition, it includes a medical and a physical examination of the individual.

These tests allow the physician to determine whether the student is medically fit to stay in Canada during the course of their study program. If these results are not enough to get the required information, applicants are referred to specialists for further testing.

What Happens During Medical Test for Visa?

One of the most important reasons to perform a medical test for Canada student visa is to make sure that the student is medically admissible to Canada. It is a precautionary step taken by the government to ensure the public safety and health of the Canadian population. International applicants will be granted or denied visas based on these factors.

Is it Required to Take a Medical Exam to Work in Canada?

If you want to apply for a job in Canada, you need to undergo a medical test. These are essentially jobs that require you to come in close contact with people. The following jobs require you to undergo medical tests:

• Clinical Laboratory Workers
• Employees in healthcare settings
• Patient attendants in nursing and geriatric care facilities
• Day Nursery Employees
• Students studying medicine at a medical university in Canada
• Workers who provide home health care to senior citizens, children, and the disabled

It is essential to undergo a medical examination if even one of the following applies to you:

• If you have applied for a parent visa or grandparent visa
• You spent a minimum of 6 months living in any of the countries mentioned below:

1. Afghanistan
2. Albania
3. Australia
4. Cambodia
5. China 
6. Hong Kong
7. Costa Rica
8. Croatia 
9. France
10. India 

Who Can Conduct Your Medical Exam?

A panel of physicians will conduct your medical test for Canada student visa. You cannot have the examination conducted by your personal physician. However, the panel of physicians do not declare the final result. It is the government of Canada that makes the final decision. You will receive a written note from the Canadian government if there are any issues with your medical examination.

When Should you get your Medical Test Done?

It is your choice whether to apply for your medical exam before or after applying for your visa. Let us look at both these cases.

Getting the Test Before Submitting your Application 

When you apply for the medical exam before submitting your application, it is known as an Upfront Medical Exam. You can undergo this test if you are applying to:

• Work
• Study
• Visit (including parent and grandparent visa) 

Getting the Test After Submitting your Application 

In case you apply for the test after submitting your application, you will receive instructions on how to schedule your medical test. Within 30 days after receiving the instructions, you must get your test done.

Important Requirements

On the day of your medical exam, an IRCC-approved physician will conduct the test, and the following will be expected from you:

• Eyeglasses/contact lenses, if you wear them.
• An identity proof (a passport is the most common form of identification proof)
• Medical reports related to your current or previous health conditions that you still possess.
• If you are unable to attend an upfront medical examination, the IRCC will send you the medical form.
• If the panel physician does not use eMedical, you must bring four recent photographs.

What Should you Expect During your Medical Test?

Take a look at the different procedures involved in the medical test for Canada student visa:

1. Firstly, the clinic staff will ask you to provide your identity proof. If you are going for any additional tests, your identification will be requested again. Additionally, a picture will be taken for future reference.
2. Next, the physician will fill out a medical history questionnaire to determine if you have any existing or previous medical conditions. Also, you will be asked if you are currently taking any medications.
3. You will then undergo a physical examination that will test you on the following criteria: 
   • Height
   • Weight
   • Hearing and Vision
   • Limbs and Skin
   • Pulse
   • Heartbeat and Breathing
   • Blood Pressure
   • Abdomen
4. Panel physicians do not examine the rectal area or genitals since they are not important for the immigration medical test. However, the doctors may examine your breasts if required.
5. In addition, you may be asked to take chest x-rays or other laboratory tests, and any abnormal results will be discussed with the physician.
6. Based on the results of your medical exam, you may be asked to undergo advanced testing. Please note that you must complete this request as early as possible.

What all do you need to Pay for? 

There will be various fees associated with the medical test for Canada student visa. This will include the following:

• Special investigations, tests or treatments required
• Fees for visiting a radiologist or doctor
• Any specialists that you will need to consult

Result and Validation

Once the IRCC has approved the medical examination, the student must wait for the results. Candidates who had opted for an upfront medical examination receive a certificate confirming the completion of the medical exam. To apply for a Canadian student visa, applicants must attach all the necessary documents. The test results are valid for one year, which means that the visa granted for permanent or temporary residence will not exceed the one year expiration period since the medical test was conducted.

Are you looking to pursue dual degree programs in Canada? A dual degree also called a double degree or a joint degree, allows a student to complete two degrees simultaneously. One of the key benefits of pursuing two degrees at the same time is that it saves time and provides diversified knowledge and skills in two different subject areas. 

For instance, rather than taking six years to obtain a bachelor's degree and then a master's degree, you can complete both degrees in just four years through a dual degree program. Read more to learn about the dual degree programs in Canada.

Table of Contents

• List of Dual Degree Programs in Canada
• Top Universities for Dual Degree Programs in Canada
• MBA and MS Dual Degree
• Advantages of Pursuing Dual Degree Programs in Canada
• Admission Requirements to Study in Canada
  
  • Eligibility Criteria
  • Documents Required
• Application Process
• Canada Study Visa

List of Dual Degree Programs in Canada

Top universities in Canada offer dual degree programs in a wide variety of subject areas. Some of the dual degree programs in Canada are given as follows:

• Dual Degrees in Human Resource
• Dual Degrees in Business Administration
• Dual Degrees in Health Care
• Dual Degrees in Economic Studies
• Dual Degrees in Management Studies
• Dual Degrees in Business Studies
• Dual Degrees in Finance
• Dual Degrees in Leadership 
• Dual Degrees in Marketing 
• Dual Degrees in Information Technology
• Dual Degrees in Marketing Studies
• Dual Degrees in Executive Programs

Top Universities for Dual Degree Programs in Canada

It can be overwhelming to choose from the numerous dual degree programs offered by Canadian universities. The table below provides information about the top Canadian universities that offer dual degree programs, along with their QS World University Rankings 2022. 

MBA and MS Dual Degree

MBA/EMBA dual degree programs allow students to combine a business degree with another graduate program. MBA dual degree programs in Canada usually take one year shorter to complete than if students pursue both degrees independently, though this duration differs on the basis of program and university. Some of the popular dual degree programs in Canada are offered in fields like engineering, social work, economics, health administration, bio-medicine, public health, nursing, and many others. 

Advantages of Pursuing Dual Degree Programs in Canada

While pursuing dual degree programs can be challenging and demanding, the benefits of these programs can be highly rewarding in terms of professional and personal growth. Following are some of the advantages of studying dual degree programs in Canada:

• Better Employment Prospects
• Enhances your Ability to Network and Build Relationships
• Develops Adaptability Skills

Better Employment Prospects

A dual degree will give you an advantage over your competitors. Having a dual degree increases your knowledge across multiple fields and enhances your skillset, which you can apply across many industries and fields. Moreover, it will give you an edge in a job market that is constantly changing and becoming increasingly competitive, especially for recent graduates. 

Enhances your Ability to Network and Build Relationships

Studying two subjects at the same time will multiply your connections and develop your networking skills. During your program, you will meet new colleagues, lecturers, and instructors from around the world. All these connections can be beneficial during your studies as well as after graduation.

Develops Adaptability Skills

Pursuing a dual degree might require more time and effort depending on what you choose to study. However, this does not mean that your workload gets doubled. Rather, it helps reinforce a strong work ethic by developing the ability to adapt quickly and handle complex tasks.

Admission Requirements to Study in Canada

International students need to meet certain admission requirements to study in Canada. Let us take a look at the eligibility criteria and the documents required to apply to different Canadian universities.

Eligibility Criteria

Each institution in Canada has its own eligibility criteria; however, the general requirements remain the same. Find below some of the important eligibility requirements to study in Canada:

• Transcripts/Marksheets of class 10th, 12th, graduation, etc. 
• GMAT/ GRE scores (for MBA and Masters programs)
• Statement of Purpose for Canada (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• English Proficiency Tests:
• IELTS
• C1 Advanced
• TOEFL
• For French-taught programs, you will be required to take French proficiency tests such as TCF, TEF, DELF, and DALF.
• Proof of your financial sufficiency to study in Canada.
• An updated CV (if required)
• Applicants for a Master's degree or PhD program may need to submit two letters of academic reference, as well as previous letters of employment. Furthermore, you will need an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) if you have not studied in Canada before.

Documents Required

In order to apply to top universities in Canada, international students will require the documents listed below: 

• Letter of Acceptance
• Valid Passport
• Academic Transcripts/Marksheets
• School Leaving Certificate
• Proof of GIC Purchase
• Details of Scholarships/Fundings (If applicable)
• Evidence of English or French language proficiency 
• Medical Test for Canada Student Visa
• Family Information Form
• Student Questionnaire
• Your parents' IT records from the last two years
• Use Representative Form (IMM 5476)

Application Process

To study in Canada, you need to follow the step-by-step procedure given below:

• Select your preferred university and course
• Visit the official website of the university and check their application deadlines
• Fill out the online application form
• Upload all the necessary documents such as the academic transcripts, SOP, English proficiency proof, reference letters, etc.
• Wait for your offer letter from the university
• Apply for a student permit (visa)

Canada Study Visa

To obtain a Canada Study Visa, international students need to apply to Citizen and Immigration (CIC). It is the main authority responsible for issuing visas to international students. The application fee for a Canada study visa is CAD 150 [Rs 8,000 approximately].

Students can apply for a Canada Study Visa or Student Permit in two ways:

• Regular Study Permit Application Procedure
• Student Direct Stream

If you are looking to pursue higher education in Canada, you must know the difference between SDS and Non-SDS. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is an initiative by Canadian Immigration Authorities which allows students to apply for Canadian visa under the SDS category. Non-SDS, on the other hand, is a general visa application process for those seeking temporary residence in Canada for work, study, or immigration.

Table of Contents

• Overview of Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS Category
• What is SDS?
• SDS Visa Requirements
• Application Process for SDS
• List of SDS Colleges in Canada
• What is Non-SDS?
• Non-SDS Visa Requirements
• Application Process for Non-SDS
• Why Should you Choose SDS Over Non-SDS?

Overview of Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS Category

SDS is a faster method of processing visa applications. The table below shows a comparison of SDS and non-SDS visa categories:

What is SDS?

SDS stands for Student Direct Stream, which was formerly known as Students Partner Program (SPP). Students wishing to study in Canada can apply for student visas under the SDS category. Through the SDS method, visa applications are processed quickly and efficiently. The application for SDS can, however, only be submitted online. In addition, students must fulfill certain requirements outlined by the Immigration Refugees Citizenship Canada under the SDS category. 

SDS Visa Requirements

To apply through Student Direct Stream, candidates must meet the following visa requirements:

• Official academic transcripts: Academic transcripts and certificates from previous institutions, including mark sheets of class 10th, 12th, diploma, or graduation, etc. To apply for undergraduate programs, candidates must have a minimum of 55% aggregate marks. Moreover, an applicant must have at least 50% marks or higher to apply for postgraduate programs.
• Statement of Purpose: Whether you apply through SDS or non-SDS, a purpose statement is required for obtaining a student visa. It helps the visa officer understand the candidate's profile and interests. Note that there is a difference between the SOP for the Canadian High Commission and the SOP written for Canadian universities.
• English Proficiency test scores: You need to take IELTS Academic or IELTS general. An overall minimum score of 6.0 is required for UG courses and 6.5 for PG courses. Scorecards of the English Language Proficiency test are valid for two years following the SDS application date.
• Letter of Acceptance: Students must provide the offer letter received from the Canadian Designated Learning Institute (DLI) under SDS.
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): You need to deposit at least CAD 10,000 (INR 7.4 lakhs) as a GIC. This money ensures that you have enough funds to cover your expenses while studying in Canada. GIC Canada is offered by various banks like ICICI, CIBC, SBI, etc. 
• Digital Photographs: Students must submit their digital pictures with specifications such as 35X45 and an 80% zoom white background.
• A valid passport
• Proof of medical examination
• Evidence of previous work experience
• Receipt of tuition fees
• Visa application fees of $150 (around INR 11,000) 

Application Process for SDS

For faster processing of your study permit, you must apply online. There is no paper application for Student Direct Stream. Therefore, make sure to align all your documents before applying. Here’s the checklist:

• Instruction guide for your application form
• Scanner or camera to make digital copies of your supporting documents
• Valid credit/debit card for the payment
• Give your biometrics. Visit the official website, answer the asked questions and submit the biometric fee.

List of SDS Colleges in Canada

There is a comprehensive list of Canadian colleges and universities that fall under the SDS category. The list below includes some of the SDS colleges: 

• George Brown College
• Red River College
• Humber College
• Parkland College
• Fleming College
• Loyalist College
• Canadore College
• Vancouver Island University
• Northern Lights College
• Lakeland College
• Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
• Seneca College 
• Sault College
• Mohawk College
• Fanshawe College

What is Non-SDS?

The Non-SDS is a general method to apply for a student visa to study in Canada. Students who are unable to meet the SDS requirements get a chance to apply under this category. The visa requirements also vary as more documents are required while applying through the Non-SDS approach. 

Non-SDS Visa Requirements

Students must meet the following visa requirements to apply through non-SDS:

• Official academic transcripts, including the 12th mark sheet. Candidates must have scored at least 55% aggregate marks for undergraduate courses. 
• Undergraduate degree of advanced diploma. Applicants must have a minimum of 50% or above to pursue postgraduate courses. 
• English proficiency test scores with IELTS of minimum 6.0 for UG and an overall band of 6.5 for PG. 
• Offer letter from the colleges participating under Non-SDS. 
• Proof of previous work experience and payslips for the last 3 months. 
• Proof of financial funds covering bank savings, student loans, investments, etc. 
• Income tax return documents or form 16 either of the candidate or the sponsor
• Receipt of tuition fees
• Proof of necessary medical tests
• Visa application fees of $150 (INR 11k approx) 

Application Process for Non-SDS

Here is the step-by-step procedure to apply for a student visa through the non-SDS method:

• Step1: Visit the official website of CIC Canada and sign in with your GCKey user ID and password. Accept all the terms and conditions and fill out the identification validation.
• Step 2: Start your application and enter the personal reference code. If you do not have the code, determine your eligibility by answering some questions and applying online. Finally, save and exit the questionnaire.
• Step 3: After answering all the questions, you will get a pop-up on whether you are eligible or not. If you are eligible, let’s follow the next step.
• Step 4: Review all your answers.
• Step 5: Check your personal checklist and documents. Add any requirements if you missed out on any.
• Step 6: Submit your application.

Why Should you Choose SDS Over Non-SDS?

As you have seen the difference between SDS and Non-SDS methods, it is clear that SDS is a better visa processing method when compared to non-SDS. Some of the reasons to choose SDS over non-SDS are given below:

• Fewer Documents
• Faster Processing
• Higher Success Rate

Fewer Documents

One of the advantages of the SDS program over non-SDS is that you do not have to submit a lot of documents to prove your financial eligibility, while under non-SDS the numbers of documents that have to be submitted are too many. Two of the important documentation that is needed for the SDS program include an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 or higher and a Guaranteed Investment Certificate of C$ 10,000 or more.

Faster Processing

SDS program makes the entire process streamlined and simpler. The entire processing takes around 45 days. However, you are required to meet all the requirements specified in the program. This is especially beneficial to the students who want to move to their college or university at the earliest.

Higher Success Rate

If you examine the success rate of the SDS program vs the non-SDS program, you will find that despite the fall of 15.9% in the year 2020 due to the lockdown, SDS program acceptance rates remain high. In 2020 the approval rates for the SDS program have been trending at 63%. After looking at the difference between SDS and Non-SDS, you must have understood that SDS method is a better choice for processing visa applications as it certainly saves a lot of time and confusion for the applicants.