Canada discontinued its student Direct Stream (SDS)


Canada has discontinued its Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program, effective November 8, 2024. Here are the key points about this change:

Program Details


The SDS program was launched in 2018 to expedite study permit applications for international students from 14 countries, including India, China, Brazil, and others

It offered faster processing times and higher approval rates compared to the regular study permit process

Reasons for Discontinuation


The Canadian government cited the need to "strengthen program integrity, address student vulnerability, and ensure equal access for all applicants"

This decision is part of Canada's efforts to cope with housing and resource challenges



Impact on Students

Applications received before 2 pm ET on November 8, 2024, will still be processed under the SDS stream


HU

Future applications will go through the regular study permit process, which may have longer processing times and potentially lower approval rates



Affected Countries

The change affects students from 14 countries, including India, China, Pakistan, Philippines, Vietnam, and others




The Nigeria Student Express (NSE) program has also been discontinued





Broader Context


This move aligns with Canada's recent policy shifts aimed at reducing immigration numbers and addressing domestic challenges like overcrowded cities and limited resources




This change is expected to significantly impact international students, particularly those from India, who have been major beneficiaries of the SDS program






.



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Recall issued for batches of eggs from 6 Canadian Brands

Image
                                                              watchmore The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a recall for eggs from six Canadian brands due to potential salmonella contamination The affected brands include Golden Valley, Compliments, Foremost, IGA, No Name, and Western Family Key Details of the Recall: Distributed in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and possibly other provinces 3 7 Affects eggs with best before dates of February 16, February 22, and March 1, 2025 7 Triggered by routine test results 7 Risks and Symptoms: Salmonella can cause serious health issues, especially for vulnerable populations. Symptoms include: Fever Headache Vomiting Nausea Abdominal cramps Diarrhea Consumer Advice: Do not consume, serve, or sell the recalled eggs Check lot numbers on the CFIA website Discard or return aff...
Read more

White House fires National Security Agency chief

Image
Watch more The White House has fired General Timothy Haugh, the director of the National Security Agency (NSA), and his deputy, Wendy Noble. Haugh also led U.S. Cyber Command, overseeing both offensive and defensive cyber operations. The reasons for their dismissal are unclear, but it follows a series of high-profile firings by the Trump administration,  including National Security Council staff members. Lt. Gen. William Hartman will serve as the acting NSA director, while Sheila Thomas becomes the acting deputy director .   Top Democrats have criticized the move, citing concerns about national security and the lack of explanation .
Read more

Premium Bonds prize checker: When is February’s draw and how can I check if I’ve won?

Image
                                                                  Watchmore NS&I has announced the February 2025 Premium Bonds draw, with two £1 million jackpot winners from Yorkshire (Kirklees and Sheffield). Here's how to check if you've won: How to Check Prizes : Online: Use NS&I website prize checker Mobile App: Download NS&I app (iOS/Android) Phone: Call 08085 007 007 (if registered for online banking) By Mail: Write to NS&I at Sunderland SR43 2SB Draw Details : Total prizes: 5.9 million Total prize value: £430,052,425 Jackpot winners: Bond 150EN423722 (Kirklees, purchased January 2009) Bond 513EP525664 (Sheffield, purchased September 2022) Winning Odds : 22,000 to 1 for each £1 bond Prize fund rate: 4% Minimum investment: £25 Maximum investment: £50,000 Prizes will be available to check from Tuesday, F...
Read more