Mississauga Office
3715 Laird Rd, Unit 4,
Mississauga, ON L5L 0A3
3715 Laird Rd, Unit 4,
Mississauga, ON L5L 0A3
Mississauga Office: 3715 Laird Rd, Unit 4, Mississauga, ON L5L 0A3
- 3715 Laird Rd, Unit 4, Mississauga, ON L5L 0A3
SDS Ended for Pakistan Applicants
The Student Direct Stream closed on November 8, 2024. Applicants from Pakistan now use the regular study permit process. Here is what to focus on.
STATUS UPDATE
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) ended on November 8, 2024. Applicants from Pakistan now apply through the regular study permit process. For current requirements, see our Study Permit page.
This page explains what the closure of the Student Direct Stream means for applicants from Pakistan and how the regular study permit process works now.
Applying for a study permit from Pakistan and want your application reviewed before you submit? Book a paid consultation. Not sure where you stand? Start with the free assessment.
Book a ConsultationStart Free AssessmentTable of Contents
1. SDS Closed: What It Means for Applicants from Pakistan
The Student Direct Stream was never a Pakistan-specific program, and it is now closed for everyone. If you are in Pakistan and planning to study in Canada, you apply through the regular study permit stream, the same as applicants from other countries. The old service standard and document shortcuts no longer apply.
2. The Regular Study Permit Process for Applicants from Pakistan
Your application is assessed on the standard study permit requirements: a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL or TAL) where your situation requires one, proof of funds that meets the current requirement, a clear and credible study plan, and meeting admissibility. The exact proof-of-funds figure and the attestation rules have changed recently, so they must be confirmed against the current IRCC requirements when you apply. Our Study Permit page sets out the current requirements.
3. Refusal-Risk Points for Pakistan Applicants
The study plan should fit your background and goals. Proof of funds should clearly meet the current requirement, and the source of funds should be documented and consistent with your profile. Ties and purpose of stay matter, and details across your forms, study plan, and financial documents should line up.
4. How MAK Helps
MAK works with licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) and regularly assists applicants from Pakistan. We assess your profile against the current requirements, help you build a credible study plan and financial picture, and address the refusal-risk points before you submit.
5. Official IRCC Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there still an SDS for Pakistan?
No. The Student Direct Stream closed on November 8, 2024 for all countries, including Pakistan.
How do students from Pakistan apply now?
Through the regular study permit stream, on the current requirements.
Do I need a PAL or TAL?
Many applicants do, with some exemptions. The attestation rules changed, so confirm whether your situation requires one before you apply.
Can I still use a GIC?
A GIC may still be used as supporting financial evidence where appropriate. It is no longer part of an SDS-specific process.
Why was my study permit refused?
Common reasons include the study plan, proof of funds and its source, and ties. A consultation can help diagnose and address these.
Important note: This page provides general information only. It is not case-specific immigration advice. The Student Direct Stream is closed, and study permit requirements and figures change without notice. Always confirm current requirements with IRCC before applying. For case-specific advice, book a paid consultation with a licensed RCIC.
Reviewed by Usman Khalil, RCIC (R709592), Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant and CICC member. Last reviewed: June 2026. Official sources checked: June 2026.
