Why closure of SDS program in Canada became a ‘boon’ for Indian students? understand

Canada SDS Program: Canada closed the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program in November last year, due to which many students are not able to understand how to plan their studies now. For years, students from many countries including India were able to quickly obtain study permits through the SDS program. But strict rules for things like English language test have also increased the difficulties of the students. Now this program has ended in Canada and it has proved to be a ‘boon’.
We are also calling the closure of the SDS program a boon because it is going to benefit the students a lot. Earlier, under SDS, students had to choose only one of a few selected tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL, to prove their command of the English language. Many students had to travel far to take the exams, pay expensive fees and wait for the results. It was very difficult to do all this along with other preparations for his/her application.

Online English tests will also be accepted

However, now students have the option to choose from a variety of online tests. Apart from IELTS or TOEFL, they can also take tests like Duolingo English Test (DET). Such tests not only save time of the students but also do not spoil their budget. The best advantage of giving online tests is that students do not have to wait long for the results. They can get results in a day or two instead of one to two weeks.

GIC will not be needed

SDS had requirements such as Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), which were difficult for economically weaker students. Through GIC, students also had to pay one year’s advance tuition fees and also had to demonstrate that they had enough money for accommodation and studies. But after the end of GIC, now students from all backgrounds are going to get equal opportunities.

For students from rural areas or from weaker backgrounds, the old system was often out of reach. The new method gives equal opportunity to everyone. This allows talented and hardworking students, no matter where they are from, to showcase their potential.