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With the closure of Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS), international students are no longer required to meet specific language proficiency standards once mandated by the government. Instead, universities now have full discretion over which English-language tests they accept. This evolution in policy not only streamlines the study permit process but also brings broader flexibility and accessibility to international applicants – without compromising academic standards.
Under the SDS, students from eligible countries were required to submit proof of their English-language proficiency through designated tests during the visa application stage. This dual-layered approach often created additional financial and logistical hurdles. Now, all applicants – regardless of their country of origin – go through the same study permit process, with language testing requirements integrated solely at the institutional level.
This change marks a significant step forward. It reduces redundancy and allows students to select from a wider variety of English language tests, depending on their university’s preferences. The Duolingo English Test (DET), in particular, is gaining popularity for its affordability, accessibility and speed. Costing just $70 (£52) and deliverable online with results in 48 hours, the DET presents a compelling alternative for students who might otherwise face barriers with traditional testing options.
But language proficiency isn’t just about ticking a box on a form. It plays a central role in student success. Studies consistently show that English language skills are a strong predictor of academic performance, particularly for non-native speakers navigating courses, readings and exams in English. These skills are also critical for engaging with peers, building professional networks and succeeding in the workplace.
As the global economy becomes more interconnected, English remains a dominant language in fields like science, business and technology. Nearly 60 per cent of the world’s websites are written in English, and it’s often the primary medium of communication in international workplaces. Strong language skills thus empower international students not only academically, but also professionally.
Some critics worry that loosening government-mandated language test requirements could compromise academic standards. However, Canadian institutions continue to uphold rigorous admission benchmarks, and many, such as the University of Toronto and McGill University, have independently validated the quality and effectiveness of newer tests like the DET. The flexibility introduced by removing SDS requirements allows institutions to evaluate language proficiency in a more inclusive way while maintaining high academic expectations.
In fact, this change may help institutions identify a wider range of talented applicants. Previously, some students with strong academic potential may have been excluded simply due to cost or access issues with specific testing formats. With more choices, institutions can now admit students who demonstrate language competence through alternative, yet equally valid, assessments.
The closure of the SDS has rebalanced the approach to language testing in Canada, empowering universities to choose the tools that best fit their educational mission. Students benefit from increased access and reduced costs, while institutions retain the ability to safeguard academic excellence. In this new era, language proficiency remains a bridge to opportunity.
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