SDS vs Regular Study Permit: Which Should Nepali Students Choose?

Understanding Your Two Options

When applying for a Canadian study permit from Nepal, you have two processing streams: the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and the regular study permit stream. Both give you the same study permit with the same rights. The difference is in processing speed, requirements, and approval rates.

SDS Requirements

• IELTS Academic 6.0+ in ALL four bands (strict — each must be 6.0+)
• Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
• GIC of CAD 20,635
• First year tuition paid in full
• Valid passport and medical exam

Regular Stream Requirements

• Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsor letters)
• Statement of Purpose
• Valid passport and potentially medical exam
• No specific IELTS minimum for the permit itself (though the institution has its own requirements)

Processing Times

SDS: Approximately 20 calendar days. Some applications are processed even faster.

Regular: 4-12 weeks. Can be longer during peak seasons (June-August).

Approval Rates

SDS applications generally have higher approval rates because the financial requirements (GIC + tuition paid) demonstrate strong financial preparation. Regular stream applications may face more scrutiny on financial documents.

Cost Comparison

Both streams have the same application fee (CAD 150 + CAD 85 biometrics). The GIC (CAD 20,635) is required for SDS but returned to you in Canada. Regular stream requires equivalent financial proof but the money stays in your account. Net cost difference: minimal, since SDS GIC money is returned.

Our Recommendation

If you have IELTS 6.0+ in all bands: Always choose SDS. The faster processing, higher approval rate, and structured financial preparation make it the superior option. If your IELTS has one band below 6.0: Apply through regular stream while retaking IELTS. You can withdraw and reapply through SDS if you achieve the required scores before your regular application is processed.

StudyCanada Nepal helps you determine the best stream and prepares your application for maximum approval chances.