Canada is one of the top destinations for Indian students, with over 3,00,000 Indian students currently studying in Canada. The country offers world-class education, affordable tuition, and excellent post-study work and PR opportunities.
Canada offers two main study permit application streams for Indian students: SDS (Student Direct Stream) and Non-SDS.
| Feature | SDS (Student Direct Stream) | Non-SDS |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | 20-30 days | 8-12 weeks |
| IELTS Requirement | Overall 6.0 (no band below 6.0) | Overall 6.0-6.5 (varies by university) |
| GIC Requirement | Required ($20,635 CAD) | Not mandatory but recommended |
| 1st Year Tuition | Paid upfront to DLI | Can be paid partially |
| Eligible Countries | India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, etc. | All countries |
| Medical Exam | Upfront medical required | Can be done after application |
💡 Tip: SDS is recommended for Indian students as it offers faster processing (20-30 days vs 8-12 weeks) and higher approval rates.
Choose DLI (Designated Learning Institution) based on your program, budget, and location preference. Check admission requirements and deadlines.
For SDS, minimum IELTS overall 6.0 (no band below 6.0). For Non-SDS, requirements vary by university. Book your exam 2-3 months before application deadline.
Submit applications online with required documents (transcripts, IELTS, SOP, LORs). Pay application fee (CAD $100-250 per university).
Once you receive Letter of Acceptance (LOA), pay the acceptance deposit (if required) and get unconditional LOA.
For SDS applicants: Purchase GIC ($20,635 CAD) from Scotia Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI Canada, or CIBC. Pay 1st year tuition fee to university.
Schedule upfront medical exam with IRCC-approved panel physician. List of approved doctors available on IRCC website.
Create GCKey account on IRCC website, fill application forms, upload documents, pay visa fee (CAD $150), and submit biometrics.
SDS: 20-30 days, Non-SDS: 8-12 weeks. Once approved, submit passport for visa stamping through VFS Global.
⚠️ Important: Apply for visa at least 3-4 months before your program start date to avoid delays.
| Expense Category | Cost (CAD) | Cost (INR Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| University Application Fee | $100-250 | ₹6,000-15,000 |
| IELTS Exam Fee | $200-250 | ₹16,000 |
| University Tuition (1 year) | $15,000-35,000 | ₹9-22 lakhs |
| GIC Requirement (SDS) | $20,635 | ₹12.8 lakhs |
| Medical Examination | $100-200 | ₹6,000-12,000 |
| Police Clearance Certificate | $10-20 | ₹500-1,000 |
| Student Visa Fee | $150 | ₹9,000 |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 | ₹5,200 |
| Airfare (One-way) | $800-1,200 | ₹50,000-75,000 |
| Living Expenses (per year) | $10,000-15,000 | ₹6-9 lakhs |
| Total (excluding tuition) | $32,000-40,000+ | ₹20-25+ lakhs |
📌 Note: GIC amount is refundable. You receive $3,000-$4,000 upon arrival, and the remaining amount is released in monthly instalments.
GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) is a mandatory financial requirement for SDS applicants. It proves that you have sufficient funds for living expenses in Canada.
| Program Level | IELTS Academic Requirement | SDS Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma / Certificate | Overall 6.0 (no band below 5.5) | Overall 6.0 (no band below 6.0) |
| Bachelor's Degree | Overall 6.0-6.5 (no band below 5.5-6.0) | Overall 6.0 (no band below 6.0) |
| Master's Degree | Overall 6.5-7.0 (no band below 6.0) | Overall 6.0 (no band below 6.0) |
| PhD | Overall 6.5-7.0 (varies by university) | Overall 6.0 (no band below 6.0) |
💡 Tip: For SDS, only IELTS Academic is accepted. TOEFL and PTE are not accepted for SDS but may be accepted for Non-SDS.
| Visa Category | Processing Time | Approval Rate | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SDS (Student Direct Stream) from India | 20-30 days | 80-85% | ||
| (outside India) from India | 8-12 weeks | 60-70% | ||
| Canada Study Permit Extension (inside Canada) | 60-90 days | 90%+ | ||
⚠️ Important: Processing times may vary depending on application volume. Apply early to avoid delays.
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