A long study gap and an age in the low-to-mid 30s came up as a common worry for SDS study permit applicants, but group members' own outcomes suggest it isn't disqualifying on its own.
What group members advised:- A study gap alone does not sink an SDS application. One member with an 8-year gap had their permit approved; another reported an 11-year gap also approved.
- The key is justifying the gap with real documents, not just stating a reason — employment history, family circumstances, or other evidence that shows what you were doing and why you're returning to study now.
- Age (33 in this case) was not treated as a separate red flag by members who shared similar profiles — it's the combination of gap plus weak or missing justification that raises concern for officers, not age by itself.
The practical takeaway: don't assume a long gap or being in your 30s makes the case weak — focus effort on a clear, well-documented explanation of the gap years and a coherent reason for choosing this program now.