Canada Ends Student Direct Stream and Nigeria Student Express Programs

Canada Ends Student Direct Stream and Nigeria Student Express Programs

Ottawa, November 8, 2024 – In a step toward ensuring equitable access to study permit applications for all international students, Canada has announced the closure of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) initiatives, effective as of 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on November 8, 2024.

Launched in 2018, the SDS was designed to expedite study permit processing for eligible students from select countries, providing faster entry for students enrolled in Canadian post-secondary institutions. Over time, this streamlined process became available to legal residents of Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam. For prospective students from Nigeria, a similar pathway, the Nigeria Student Express (NSE), was also established.

The termination of these programs is part of Canada’s broader commitment to uphold the integrity of its study permit system, enhance protections for students, and provide fair access for applicants globally. Students from all backgrounds are now encouraged to apply through the regular study permit stream, which maintains Canada’s high standards of admission. The country remains dedicated to welcoming international students and ensuring a positive academic experience.

Next Steps for Prospective Students:

All applications received after this date and time will be processed through Canada’s regular study permit process.

This change does not impact eligibility criteria; applicants from countries that previously had access to the SDS or NSE must meet the same requirements as any other study permit applicant. Canada assures that applicants will continue to have an equal opportunity to pursue studies in the country.

Eligibility Requirements for a Study Permit:

To be eligible for a Canadian study permit, applicants must:

1. Be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
2. Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover:
   • Tuition fees
   • Living expenses for themselves and any accompanying family members
   • Return travel expenses for themselves and any accompanying family members
3. Comply with Canadian laws, possess a clean criminal record, and provide a police certificate if required
4. Be in good health and, if needed, undergo a medical examination
5. Demonstrate to an officer that they will leave Canada once their study permit expires

Required Documents for a Study Permit Application:

Applicants will need the following documents to apply for a Canadian study permit:

1. Proof of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution
2. Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter
3. Proof of identity
4. Proof of financial support

Additional documents may be required, including:

• A letter of explanation
• A medical examination
• A custodian declaration (for minor applicants)
• Any other documents deemed necessary

Canada is committed to supporting international students and continues to uphold its world-class education system while fostering an inclusive and equitable application process for students from all regions.