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Student Direct Stream (SDS): Closed
The Student Direct Stream ended on November 8, 2024. This page is kept as a resource and explains how study permit applications are processed now.
STATUS UPDATE
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) ended on November 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. ET and is no longer an active study permit stream. Study permit applications are now processed through the regular stream. For current requirements, see our Study Permit page.
This page explains what the Student Direct Stream was, what changed on November 8, 2024, and how to apply for a study permit through the regular stream now.
Planning to study in Canada and want your current study permit strategy? Book a paid consultation. Not sure where you stand? Start with the free assessment.
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1. What the Student Direct Stream Was
The Student Direct Stream was a study permit processing option that, until November 8, 2024, was available to legal residents of a set list of countries. It is now closed and is not an application stream you can use today.
2. What Changed on November 8, 2024
As of 2:00 p.m. ET on November 8, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) ended the Student Direct Stream and the Nigeria Student Express. Applications received before that time were processed under the old rules. Every study permit application submitted on or after that time is processed through the regular study permit stream.
3. How to Apply Now (Regular Stream)
You apply through the regular study permit stream. A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) may still be used as supporting financial evidence where appropriate, but it is no longer part of an SDS-specific process. The old Student Direct Stream service standards no longer apply, and your application is assessed on the standard study permit requirements.
4. The Current Study Permit Requirements
A study permit application today is built around a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL or TAL) if your situation requires one, proof that you can pay tuition and support yourself, a genuine study plan, and proof that you meet admissibility and temporary resident requirements. Funds requirements and attestation rules have changed recently, so the figures and documents must be confirmed against the current IRCC requirements at the time you apply. Our Study Permit page covers the current requirements in detail.
5. If You Were Preparing an SDS Application
Focus on the current study permit requirements rather than the old stream. The most common issues we see are an unclear study plan, proof of funds that does not clearly meet the current requirement or whose source is not well documented, and weak ties or purpose of stay.
6. How MAK Helps
MAK works with licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) and reviews your profile against the current study permit requirements, helps you prepare a credible study plan and financial documentation, and flags refusal risks before you submit.
7. Official IRCC Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Student Direct Stream still open?
No. The Student Direct Stream ended on November 8, 2024 and is not an active stream.
How do I apply for a study permit now?
Through the regular study permit stream, using the current requirements.
Can I still use a GIC?
A Guaranteed Investment Certificate may still be used as supporting financial evidence where appropriate, but it is no longer part of an SDS-specific process.
Were SDS processing times faster?
The Student Direct Stream had its own service standard, which no longer exists. Current processing is handled under the regular stream and varies.
What should I focus on now?
The current study permit requirements: DLI acceptance, an attestation letter where required, proof of funds, a genuine study plan, and admissibility.
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.
