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Students from Senegal and Morocco who wish to study in Canada will soon have access to a fast-track study permit processing program.

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) allows eligible students to apply for a study permit online. The processing time for most SDS applications is 20 days, though some may take longer.

On Sept. 9, 2019, students from Senegal and Morocco will be added to the list of eligible countries that can apply through the SDS. This list also includes India, China, Philippines, Vietnam and Pakistan.

Expanding the SDS to Senegal and Morocco supports the federal government’s Francophone Immigration Strategy, which is meant to encourage young French speakers to study in Canada. It also supports the International Education Strategy for 2019 to 2024 in attracting students from a more diverse range of countries.

“Canada’s diverse, welcoming society, high-quality educational institutions and opportunities to work or immigrate after graduation have made Canada a leading destination of choice for students from around the world,” Ahmed Hussen, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, said in a statement.

“In expanding the Student Direct Stream to a more diverse range of prospective students, we’re enhancing the tremendous cultural, social and economic benefits that international students provide.”

The SDS was launched in 2018, the same year when nearly 54,000 former students transitioned to permanent residence.

International students well-positioned for Express Entry

The Express Entry system is Canada’s main source of skilled foreign workers. The profiles of eligible candidates are submitted into a pool and ranked via the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which awards points according to applicants’ potential to succeed in Canada.

High proficiency in English or French, for example, can help boost a CRS score. Candidates with strong French skills can also earn additional CRS points.

The CRS also considers Canadian education credentials and skilled work experience in Canada, which may put international graduates in a good position to receive an invitation permanent residence through Express Entry.

Find out if you are eligible for Expres Entry

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