New SDS score requirements for English Language examinations are announced by IRCC.
The English exam requirements for SDS applicants have recently undergone adjustments, according to an announcement from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). When you select IELTS Academic, applying to study in Canada through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program is simpler.
- Only an IELTS Academic overall band score of 6.0 is required if you are applying after August 10th, 2023.
- IELTS 6.0 in each skill is required if you plan to submit an academic application before August 10, 2023.
- Before and after August 10, 2023, you must score 6.0 in each skill if you're applying for IELTS General Training.
IELTS Academic or General Training exam results that are up to two years old can be used to apply to SDS. Therefore, if you apply to SDS after the amendments take effect on August 10, 2023, you may also use test results from before that date.
What changes have been made to the IRCC English Language Requirements for SDS Applications?
For the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program, effective on August 10, 2023, the IRCC has stated that they would begin accepting additional English language examinations.
The IRCC has always recognized IELTS as a valid test option, however starting with the IELTS Academic, candidates will no longer need to obtain a band score of 6.0 in each of the four sections (Reading, Speaking, Writing, and Listening). In contrast, candidates just need a band score of 6.0 overall. You would receive a band score of 6.0 overall if, for instance, you received a 5.5 in reading and writing and a 6.5 in speaking and listening.
English Language Test |
Minimum Score Required for SDS |
IELTS Academic |
6.0 |
PTE Academic |
6.0 |
TOEFL IBT |
83 |
CAEL |
60 |
Benefits of taking IELTS Academic for SDS Applications?
- When it comes to exam location and administration options, IELTS is unsurpassed.
We give you options for taking your test that are unmatched by those offered by other exams. IELTS is offered offline at more than 3,000 test centers and online in more than 90 nations.
- IELTS is well-known for learning, immigration, and other purposes.
IELTS is widely accepted for use in higher education and immigration, with more than 11,500 organizations doing so.