Expand the language test options for the SDS program.

Today, the Department of Immigration announced important news regarding Canada's Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. This program is receiving significant interest from international students wishing to study in Canada.

The new regulations have expanded the list of accepted language tests for the SDS Program.

Under the new regulations, students can use common language tests such as IELTS General and CELPIP General for SDS purposes. These scores are valid not only for academic purposes but also for immigration purposes without needing to retake the test.

Furthermore, expanding the list of other tests such as CAEL, TOEFL, CELPIP, and PTE provides more variety and flexibility for candidates. This helps meet the needs of students, allowing them to have better choices and use the type of test that suits their abilities and goals.

Below is a table of language tests and required scores for the SDS Program:

1. Results from a language testing organization designated to use a general language test approved under IRPR Regulation 74(3):

   • IELTS General: A score equivalent to at least a 7 in each language skill (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) is considered equivalent to the Canadian Language Benchmarks.
   • CELPIP General: A score equivalent to at least a 7 in each language skill (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) in the Canadian Language Benchmarks.
   • TEF Canada: A score equivalent to at least 7 in each language skill (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) in the Canadian Language Benchmarks.
   • TCF Canada: A score equivalent to the Canadian Language Benchmarks of at least 7 for each language skill (speaking, listening, reading, and writing).

2. Results from an academic language test from a language testing organization designated under IRPR Regulation 74(3):

   • IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 6
   • CAEL: Minimum score 60
   • Pearson PTE Academic: Minimum score of 60
   • TEF - 5 épreuves: Minimum score of 400
   • TCF - Tout Public: Minimum score of 400

3. Results from the Academic Language Test (ETS) TOEFL iBT Test: Minimum score of 83 for each language skill (speaking, listening, reading, and writing).

Note: All of the above tests must be taken in person to be accepted for SDS. Remote online tests will not be accepted for SDS purposes.

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