Canada Student Visas
For countless Indian students, pursuing higher education in Canada is a vibrant dream, offering world-class institutions, diverse culture, and promising career prospects. To make this dream a reality, understanding the Canadian study permit application process is paramount. This guide will clarify current pathways and essential requirements, helping you confidently embark on your academic and professional future in Canada.
What is Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS)?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) was previously a prominent expedited application pathway designed for students from certain countries, including India, offering faster processing for a Canada Study Permit. However, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) initiative formally ended on November 8, 2024. All prospective students, including those from India, are now invited to apply through the regular study permit stream.
What is a Canada Student Visa?
To study in Canada, you primarily need a Study Permit, issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Key requirements for your Canada Student Visa for Indian students include a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), and a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) (now mandatory for most applicants). Proof of sufficient funds is vital: from September 1, 2025, this increases to CA $22,895 for living costs per year for a single applicant, plus tuition fees. You'll typically apply online, submit biometrics, and may need a medical examination. Students are permitted to work up to 24 hours per week during term time
Navigating Canada's evolving study permit pathways demands meticulous attention to detail and up-to-date information. By understanding the eligibility criteria and preparing your application diligently, your dream of studying in Canada is well within reach. Begin your Canadian journey with confidence. AECC counsellors are here to provide expert, up-to-date guidance, ensuring your application is prepared for seamless processing.
With a dynamic career in international education and corporate finance, Anuj Gupta offers a unique and strategic perspective for students looking to study abroad. He is a certified expert for Canada, holding a certification from ICEF Canada, a globally recognised standard for excellence in student counselling.
Anuj's experience is built on a foundation of leadership roles at top-tier organisations like AECC Global, IDP Education Ltd, and J.P. Morgan. His time as a Research Analyst at J.P. Morgan honed his analytical skills, which he now uses to help students make data-driven decisions about their future.
Currently, as the Head of Client Relations & Development for Canada, Germany, and Dubai, Anuj has the most current, high-level insights into these key study destinations. He has progressed through the ranks at AECC, from Team Lead for Canada to his current leadership position, giving him a deep, practical understanding of every stage of the student journey.
Anuj can help you with
- Getting Certified Canada Guidance: Receive advice from an ICEF-certified professional to ensure your application to Canadian institutions is accurate and effective.
- Making Data-Backed Decisions: Use his experience as a research analyst to strategically choose the right country, university, and programme that aligns with your financial and career goals.
- Navigating European & Dubai Admissions: Get expert insights into the growing study destinations of Germany and Dubai from a professional who leads development in these regions.
- Understanding the Big Picture: Benefit from his leadership perspective to understand the international education landscape and position yourself for success.
Anuj holds an MBA in Finance, making him exceptionally qualified to advise on the financial aspects of studying abroad. When you read his articles, you're gaining knowledge from a certified strategist with a strong corporate background.