Starting from August 10, 2023, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept four new English proficiency tests for Canada study visas under the Student Direct Stream (SDS). This update offers more options for international students to demonstrate their English language skills. Here’s what you need to know:
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Previously Accepted English Tests
- Until now, only IELTS general or academic exams were accepted for the Canada study visa under SDS.
In-Person Testing
- All the tests must be taken in person; remote-proctored online exams are not allowed for SDS candidates.
New English Tests Eligible for Canada Study Permit under SDS
CELPIP General:
- It requires a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
- The test score ranges from 0 to 12, with a score of 7 in each module being acceptable for SDS.
- Cost: $280 + taxes.
- Bonus: It’s also accepted for permanent residency programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
CAEL:
- It costs $280 + taxes and has a score range of 10 to 90.
- A score of 60 is acceptable for a Canada study visa under SDS.
- It’s available at over 40 test locations in Canada, the United States, India, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, and China.
- Duration: approximately 3.5 hours.
Pearson PTE Academic:
- It assesses writing, speaking, listening, and reading in a two-hour exam.
- Score range: 10 to 90.
- A score of 60 is acceptable for applying for a study visa under SDS. Speaking and writing are combined, while reading and listening are assessed separately.
- Cost: $330 + taxes.
TOEFL iBT Test:
- A score of 83 or above is required for a Canada study visa under SDS.
- Each of the four iBT parts is worth 30 points, with a total duration of three hours.
- Cost: $240 USD (approx. $330 CAD).
Eligible Countries for Canada Study Permit under SDS
Residents of the following 14 countries are eligible for faster processing under the SDS study permit:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Brazil
- China
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- India
- Morocco
- Pakistan
- Peru
- Philippines
- Senegal
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Vietnam
Requirements for Canada Study Visa under SDS
To apply for a Canada study visa under SDS, you need to fulfill the following requirements:
- Valid English or French proficiency test with CLB level 7 or higher.
- Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000 CAD.
- Proof of advance payment of one year’s tuition fee to the DLI.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) – recommended.
Fast Processing Time
IRCC aims to process all study permit applications under SDS within 20 working days, ensuring a quick turnaround for students.
These changes provide more flexibility and options for international students interested in studying in Canada. With the new English tests and streamlined processing, applying for a Canada study visa has become more accessible and efficient for eligible students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the new English tests online?
No, all the tests must be taken in person. Remote-proctored online exams are not allowed for SDS candidates.
Are the new English tests accepted for permanent residency programs?
Yes, the CELPIP General test is accepted for permanent residency programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
How long does it take to complete the CAEL test?
The CAEL test typically takes around three and a half hours to complete.
Where can I take the CAEL test?
The CAEL test is available at over 40 test locations in Canada, the United States, India, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, and China.
What is the cost of the TOEFL iBT Test?
The TOEFL iBT Test is priced at $240 USD (approximately $330 CAD).
How long does it take to process a study permit application under SDS?
IRCC aims to process all study permit applications under SDS within 20 working days.
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