SDS vs Non-SDS Canada | Which Student Visa Stream Is Better for Indian Students?

Canada remains one of the top study-abroad destinations for Indian students, but the biggest confusion many applicants face is SDS vs Non-SDS. Both streams allow students to apply for a Canadian study permit, yet they differ in documentation, processing time, financial proof, and approval rates. Choosing the right stream can significantly impact your visa outcome, especially in 2025 when Canadian immigration policies continue evolving.

This detailed blog explains what SDS and Non-SDS are, the differences in eligibility, approval rates, required documents, and which stream is better for your profile.

 

What do SDS and Non-SDS Streams mean?

 SDS (Student Direct Stream)

The Student Direct Stream is a fast-track visa process designed for students from specific countries, including India. It offers quicker decisions, simplified documentation, and a higher chance of approval, provided you meet all requirements.

SDS is ideal for well-prepared students with strong English scores and full financial readiness.

 

Non-SDS (Regular Stream)

The Non-SDS stream is the traditional route for international students who don’t meet SDS eligibility. It requires more financial documents, detailed proof of funds, and often takes longer for processing.

Non-SDS is suitable for students with lower English test scores or alternative fund arrangements.

Eligibility Differences for Indian Students

SDS Eligibility for Canada

To apply under SDS, Indian students must meet these criteria:

• Should hold an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 in each band (or equivalent accepted test).

• Purchase a GIC of CAD 20,635 (2025 updated amount).

• Pay all tuition fees for the first year.

• Get admission to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

• Provide a medical exam (if required).

• Biometrics collection.

• Note: Duolingo is NOT accepted for SDS.

 

Non-SDS Eligibility

Applicants who do not meet the SDS requirements can still apply through a Non-SDS provided that:

• They have lower IELTS scores, such as 5.5 bands in one module.

• They choose to submit alternate financial proofs such as ITRs, bank statements, or property documents.

• They have conditional or late admissions.

• They require flexibility in documentation.

While eligibility is broader, scrutiny is higher under Non-SDS.

Comparison of Documentation Checklist

Choosing between SDS and Non-SDS largely depends on what documents you can provide. Here is a clear comparison:

SDS Documentation

SDS follows a simplified checklist:

• IELTS - 6.0 in each band

• Tuition fee receipt for 1 year

• GIC certificate of CAD 20,635

• Passport

• LOA - Letter of Acceptance

• Medical exam (out-of-pocket)

• Biometrics

• Academic transcripts

• No need for bank statements, CA reports, or proofs of income.

 

Non-SDS Documentation

This stream requires detailed financial and personal background documents:

• IELTS: overall 6.0 acceptable, but lower bands allowed

• Bank statements (last 6 months)

• Affidavit of support or sponsorship

• ITR stands for Income Tax Return.

• Form 16 / Salary slips

• Property valuation (optional)

• Education loan papers (if applicable)

• Tuition fee receipt (partial payment allowed)

• GIC optional but recommended

Non-SDS applicants must prove their financial stability more thoroughly.

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Processing Time & Approval Rate Comparison

Processing Time

 SDS stream: Normally 4–8 weeks because of standardised documents.

 Non-SDS stream: Typically 10–16+ weeks, depending on background checks and financial review.

 

Non-SDS Visa Approval Rate vs SDS

 SDS visa approval rate: Higher because documents are standardised, and financial background is clearly verified through GIC.

 Non-SDS visa approval rate: Lower due to frequent gaps in SOPs, insufficient financial documents, and inconsistent fund sources.

In 2024–2025 trends, SDS is considered the safer route for most Indian students.

 

Which stream is better based on the profile?

How you choose a pathway depends on your academic and financial readiness.

Choose SDS if you want to:

• Have IELTS 6.0 in each band.

• Whose family can afford a full-year tuition payment.

• Can buy a GIC.

• Prefer faster visa decisions.

• Want more success with approval.

It's ideal for students who are academically strong and financially ready.

 

Non-SDS if you:

• Have lower IELTS scores.

• Cannot pay a full year’s tuition upfront.

• Prefer to show detailed financial documents instead of GIC.

• Have non-traditional sponsors (siblings, relatives, etc.).

• Require flexibility in explaining gaps in studies.

Non-SDS works well for students with mixed academic or financial backgrounds—provided the SOP is extremely strong.

 

Common mistakes made by students

 

Regardless of SDS or Non-SDS, students often face refusals due to the following mistakes:

 

1. Weak or Generic SOP

Many applicants use copied content or poorly written SOPs, causing refusal under “purpose of visit.”

 

2. Financial Docs Missing or Incorrect (Non-SDS)

Unexplained transactions, sudden deposits, or lack of income proof can lead to rejection.

 

3. Poor IELTS scores

Even for non-SDS, very low English scores lower the chances of approval.

 

4. Not keeping up with the latest GIC & tuition rules

Using outdated financial information can lead to immediate rejection.

 

5. Submission of Partial Documents

Missing transcripts, inconsistent forms, or incorrect uploads can lead to delays or refusals.

 

6. Failure to Observe SDS Where Applicable

Many students choose Non-SDS due to wrong guidance, despite meeting SDS requirements.

Conclusion 

Choosing between SDS vs Non-SDS Canada depends entirely on your profile, finances, and eligibility. SDS offers faster processing, fewer documents, and a higher approval rate—making it the preferred choice for most Indian students. Non-SDS is a valid alternative but requires strong documentation and a solid SOP to succeed. Evaluate your English scores, financial situation, and academic background to choose the stream that gives you the highest chance of a Canadian study permit in 2025. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is SDS faster than Non-SDS?

 Yes, SDS offers quicker processing because the documents are standardised and financial proof is straightforward. 

 

Can I switch from Non-SDS to SDS? 

Yes, you can switch if you later meet SDS requirements, such as IELTS 6 in each band and full tuition + GIC payment. 

 

Does Duolingo work for an SDS visa? 

No, Duolingo is not accepted under SDS. 

 

Which stream gives higher acceptance in 2025? 

SDS shows a consistently higher approval rate for Indian students.