SDS vs Non-SDS study permits: what's actually different

Documents Needed

• IELTS/language test results

  SDS requires meeting a minimum band; non-SDS has no program-wide minimum, but individual colleges/universities may still set their own requirement.

• First-year tuition payment

  SDS requires paying the full first year of tuition upfront.

• GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)

  SDS requires a GIC of about CAD 10,000 as proof of funds for living expenses.

• Admission letter from a recognized institution

  SDS requires admission to a college/university on Canada's designated list of eligible institutions.

Step-by-Step

Dos, Don'ts & Tips

• Tip: SDS eligibility bundles four conditions: minimum IELTS band, full first-year tuition paid upfront, ~CAD 10,000 GIC, and admission at a designated institution.
• Do: If applying non-SDS, still confirm your target college/university's own English proficiency requirement — the absence of an SDS minimum doesn't mean no requirement exists.