SDS Pathway
Fast-track your Canadian study permit with Student Direct Stream
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a fast-track study permit processing option for applicants from select countries including Nepal. If you meet the SDS requirements — IELTS 6.0+ in all four bands, purchase of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 20,635, and payment of first year's tuition — your study permit can be processed in as few as 20 days instead of the regular 4-12 weeks. SDS was introduced to streamline processing for well-prepared, genuine students with strong financial profiles.
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No obligation. Or call +977-9849998031
Top Universities Available
Through our direct partnerships, we help you gain admission to leading universities. Here are some of the top institutions available through our SDS Pathway program.
Any Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
All levelsNationwide
SDS is available for any program at any DLI in Canada — universities, colleges, and polytechnics.
Conestoga College
Top CollegeKitchener, ON
Most popular SDS destination for Nepali students. Fast processing combined with strong programs.
University of Toronto
QS #21Toronto, ON
SDS speeds up processing even for top-tier university applications.
Seneca Polytechnic
Top CollegeToronto, ON
Large Nepali student community with smooth SDS processing history.
University of Alberta
QS #96Edmonton, AB
Affordable Alberta university with SDS-eligible programs.
Douglas College
Top CollegeNew Westminster, BC
BC college option with SDS eligibility and good programs.
Eligibility Requirements
Meeting these requirements strengthens your application. Our counselors can help you identify areas to improve and present the strongest possible profile.
- Nepali citizen (Nepal is an SDS-eligible country)
- IELTS Academic 6.0 or higher in ALL four bands (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)
- Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Purchase of a GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) of CAD 20,635
- Payment of first year's tuition to the institution
- Valid passport and medical exam (if required)
- No criminal record or inadmissibility issues
Application Process
We have streamlined the study abroad application process into clear, manageable steps. Our team guides you through each stage to maximize your chances of admission.
Achieve IELTS 6.0+ in All Bands
The SDS IELTS requirement is strict: 6.0 or higher in EACH of Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. An overall 6.0 with one band at 5.5 does NOT qualify. We provide IELTS preparation guidance and recommend test centers in Kathmandu with the best availability.
Secure Admission from a DLI
Apply to and receive a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution. We ensure your chosen institution is on the DLI list (check on the IRCC website). Both universities and colleges qualify as long as they are DLIs.
Purchase GIC (CAD 20,635)
A GIC is a deposit at a participating Canadian bank. The money is returned to you in monthly installments after you arrive in Canada (approximately CAD 1,500-1,700/month over 12 months). Participating banks: Scotiabank, CIBC, SBI Canada, ICICI Bank Canada, and Bank of China (Canada). We walk you through the entire purchase process.
Pay First Year Tuition
Pay your full first year tuition to the institution. This can be done via wire transfer from Nepal. Keep the receipt and transaction records as you will need them for the SDS application.
Submit SDS Application Online
Submit your study permit application through the IRCC online portal, indicating SDS stream. Upload all documents: Letter of Acceptance, IELTS scorecard, GIC purchase proof, tuition payment receipt, passport, photos, medical exam (if applicable), and SOP.
Fast Processing & Decision
SDS applications are processed in approximately 20 calendar days. You may receive your approval letter via email. Once approved, submit your passport for visa stamping (if applying from Nepal). Then prepare for departure.
Costs & Scholarships
Understanding the financial commitment is crucial for planning your study abroad journey. Here is a breakdown of typical costs and available funding options.
SDS requires full first-year tuition payment upfront. College programs: CAD 12,000-22,000. University programs: CAD 20,000-55,000. This is a significant upfront cost but the money goes toward your education. The advantage is faster processing and higher approval rates.
The GIC of CAD 20,635 serves as your proof of living expense funds AND is returned to you monthly after arriving in Canada. First installment (usually CAD 2,000-3,000) is available immediately upon opening your Canadian bank account. Remaining funds are disbursed in equal monthly installments. So the GIC is not a cost — it is a forced savings that helps you live in Canada.
SDS is a visa processing pathway, not a funding source. Scholarships are separate and determined by your institution. The advantage of SDS is that by demonstrating strong finances (GIC + tuition paid), you signal to immigration that you are well-prepared, which increases approval chances.
Costs are estimates and vary by university and city. Call +977-9849998031 or fill out the form for personalized cost estimates based on your preferred universities.
Student Life
Studying abroad is about more than just academics. Here is what you can expect from life as an international student.
SDS students have the same experience as any other international student in Canada. The difference is only in visa processing speed and the upfront financial requirement. Once in Canada, you have the same work rights (20 hours/week during term, full-time during breaks), PGWP eligibility, and PR pathway as any other study permit holder.
The GIC monthly disbursements provide a helpful financial safety net during your first year. Many students use the GIC money for rent and groceries while their part-time work income covers other expenses. By your second year, you are typically financially self-sufficient through part-time work and savings.
SDS Pathway — Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my IELTS score is 6.0 overall but one band is 5.5?
Where do I buy the GIC?
Is SDS guaranteed to be approved?
Can I apply SDS for a 1-year post-graduate program?
What if my SDS application is refused?
Ready to SDS Pathway?
Get free, expert counseling from StudyCanada Nepal. We will help you with university selection, applications, scholarships, and visa processing. Call +977-9849998031 or book online.