IELTS to Study in Canada: The Basics
The IELTS is a standardized test that assesses your English proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Most Canadian universities and colleges recognize it, making it the go-to option for students from non-English-speaking countries. The required IELTS score may vary depending on the level and type of program you plan to enroll in.
IELTS Requirements for Different Education Levels in Canada
- High School (Secondary Level):
If you’re applying to a Canadian high school, you typically won’t need to submit an IELTS score. However, some schools may require proof of basic English proficiency or recommend taking ESL (English as a Second Language) classes upon arrival.
- College and Undergraduate Programs:
For students pursuing college diplomas or bachelor’s degrees, an IELTS score of 6.0 or higher is generally required. Meeting this score ensures that you’re capable of handling the English-language demands of college-level coursework.
- Graduate Programs (Master’s and PhD):
Graduate programs in Canada usually require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or higher. Some programs, particularly in fields such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), Medicine, and Teaching, may set higher score requirements to ensure students are well-prepared for the academic challenges ahead.
Is IELTS Required to Study in Canada: What If You Don’t Meet the IELTS Requirements?
If your IELTS score falls below the required threshold, don’t worry—there are still options available for you to study in Canada:
- English for Academic Purposes (EAP) or Preparatory English Courses:
Many Canadian institutions offer English preparatory courses for students who haven’t met the IELTS requirement. These short-term courses are designed to help you improve your English skills and get ready for full-time academic study.
- University Pathway Programs:
An alternative to retaking the IELTS is enrolling in a University Pathway Program offered by language schools. These programs allow you to improve your English and gain conditional admission to partner universities across Canada. After completing the pathway program, you can bypass the IELTS requirement at over 99 partner institutions.
- Other Common English Certificates for Studying in Canada:
The most widely accepted English certificate in Canada is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), though others like TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and PTE (Pearson Test of English) are also recognized by many institutions.
Is IELTS Required to Study in Canada: Student Direct Stream (SDS)
For international students applying through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) to obtain a study permit in Canada, meeting the language proficiency requirement is crucial. The IELTS exam is mandatory for SDS applicants, with a minimum overall score of 6.0.
It’s important to understand which English certificates Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts. While many colleges and universities in Canada accept IELTS One Skill Retake, this version is not accepted for SDS applications.
IRCC has made it clear that only certain English tests are valid for SDS, including:
- CAEL: a minimum overall score of 60;
- CELPIP General: a score that is equivalent to a CLB score of at least 7 for each ability;
- IELTS Academic: a minimum overall score of at least 6;
- IELTS General: a score that is equivalent to a CLB score of at least 7 for each ability;
- TOEFL iBTL: a minimum overall score of at least 83
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: a minimum overall score of 60;
The non-accepted English certificates include those not listed above, such as:
- IELTS One Skill Retake
- PTE Academic UKVI
- TOEFL iBT MyBest Scores
Conclusion
The IELTS to study in Canada is a key requirement for most international students. Depending on whether you’re applying for a high school, undergraduate, or graduate program, the necessary IELTS score will differ. Even if you don’t meet the score requirement, alternative options like preparatory courses and pathway programs are available to help you achieve your goal of studying in Canada. However, if you are looking to apply for a Study Permit under the Student Direct Stream, you must obtain an eligible English certificate.
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