NEW DELHI: Canada’s cancellation of the SDS visa scheme, which allowed Indian students to fast-track their study permit application process, was raised in Lok Sabha on Friday, but the Indian govt assured the House this will make the admission process more affordable for students, particularly those who were previously unable to meet the more costly SDS requirements.
As per the SDS programme, which was launched in 2018, the Canadian govt allowed eligible international students from India and many other countries to expedite their study permit application process. However, according to junior external affairs minister Kirti Vardhan Singh, the fast-tracking process involved meeting specific requirements like paying one year’s tuition fee in advance, providing a mandatory Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth $20,635 as proof of funds, and meeting language proficiency levels.
On Nov 8, 2024, Canada ended the SDS programme. “The Canadian govt conveyed that its objective in doing away with the SDS programme is in line with its efforts to strengthen the programme’s integrity, address student vulnerability, and give all students equal and fair access to the application process, as well as a positive academic experience. Following the cancellation of the SDS scheme, all international students would now have to apply for ‘regular study permits’ for studying in Canada,” said Singh, in response to a written question in Lok Sabha on the likely impact of Canada’s move on Indian students.
“Under the regular route, students are no longer required to pay full one-year tuition fee upfront, but only for six months and demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their living expenses. This makes the admission process more affordable for students, particularly those who were previously unable to meet the more costly SDS requirements,” he added.
According to the ministry of external affairs, there are approximately 4,27,000 Indian students in Canadian colleges and universities. “All issues facing Indian students in Canada are regularly discussed and raised with Canadian authorities. Govt of India places high emphasis on the well-being of Indian students pursuing education in Canada,” said the minister.