More English language tests to be accepted for SDS applications

The PTE Academic English Language test  and TOEFL iBT tests will now be accepted by all Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications to study in Canada. 

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept the English language tests in SDS applications from 10 August 2023. 

SDS is an expedited study permit process for students from Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam who want to study in Canada.

Previously, only one English-language testing option was authorised for the SDS route.

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Pearson CEO Andy Bird said: “Canada is a great place to be a student – fantastic colleges, beautiful scenery, exciting culture and nightlife. With PTE Academic now recognised for SDS purposes, I’m delighted that Pearson can help even more test takers achieve their dream of studying there. 

“This recognition comes hot on the heels of PTE Core being approved for Canadian economic migration purposes earlier this year and reflects our determination to make PTE the test of choice for everybody wanting to live, work or study abroad.” 

“We are thrilled to be unlocking more opportunities for students to access one of the world’s most desirable study abroad destinations,” said Rohit Sharma, senior vice president of global higher education and workskills at ETS. “Not only will the addition of TOEFL benefit the hundreds of thousands of students who take advantage of the SDS route each year, but institutions can feel confident knowing that they can access a wider pool of applicants who can demonstrate their skills with the premier test of English-language proficiency.”

Tests taken before 10 August will be eligible for SDS provided they are submitted after this date and are within the expiry period stipulated by IRCC. Students should check IRCC guidance before submitting their SDS applications.