Canada is home to some of the most esteemed institutions, offering world-class education. Thus, many international students apply for study visas each year. These institutions require students to take language tests like IELTS to prove their English language proficiency for effective communication and academic success. If you’re planning to apply for a Canada Study Visa, you must know the various English language tests that Canadian institutions accept.
Note that IRCC has no preferred English tests. You can take whatever test is convenient to you, all tests are equally considered. The only requirement is that any test must be not older than 2 years (24 months) and must meet the required score.
Explore the English language tests recognized by Canadian institutions.
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
IELTS is a widely accepted exam for international students interested in studying in Canada. This tests the applicant’s ability to write, speak, listen, and read the language, which will help them in academic and everyday settings in Canada. Most Canadian institutions specify the IELTS Academic module, which focuses on the skills related to academic settings.
The minimum band score required to obtain a student visa for Canada is 6.0 bands in each model and an overall band of 6. Even if you have 5.5 in one or more modules, you can still get the visa if your overall score is 6.
For individuals applying for permanent residency, they need to submit an IELTS General score. The minimum IELTS score required for Canada PR is 6.0 bands overall. The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a significant benchmark that evaluates immigrants’ language proficiency.
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TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
TOEFL is another test that Canadian institutions accept to prove your English language skills. This test measures your listening, reading, speaking, and writing abilities and requires a candidate to score between 80-100 to pass. The minimum required score for TOEFL is 79 to enroll in a university in Canada such as the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, or McGill University.
The TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) is the most common format accepted in Canada and institutions typically provide minimum score requirements for each section.
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CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
Though CELPIP is specifically tailored for immigration purposes, some institutions in Canada also accept it for admissions. CELPIP assesses the applicant’s general English skills, which mainly focus on everyday communication. There are two tests conducted under CELPIP – CELPIP General and CELPIP Academic. While CELPIP Academic is used for admissions, some institutions have unique preferences.
The minimum required score for the CELPIP test is 67 points out of 100 – 28 points are given to language skills, which can increase to 33 for those with an accompanying spouse or common-law partner.
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TEF (Test d’Evaluation de Français)
For many universities in Canada, French is the primary language of instruction, especially in Quebec, the French-speaking province of Canada. The majority of institutions use French to teach their courses. Therefore, it is important for international students who do not speak French and wish to study in Quebec to take the TEF test. Note that there are two types of TEF – the TEF and the TEFAQ. While the TEFAQ is only accepted in Quebec, the TEF is accepted by Quebec and federal immigration.
If you wish to get accepted into the Skilled Worker program and enter the Express Entry pool, you must check eligibility for Canada PR and score at least 67 points out of 100 to be eligible.
Read More: What is the Alberta Tech Pathway Program?
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PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)
A computer-based language proficiency test, PTE Academic is widely accepted by Canadian institutions. This test is tailored to evaluate the speaking, reading, writing, and listening abilities of international students in an integrated manner.
PTE Academic shows quick results and is usually available within 5 business days. It is perfect for students with tight application deadlines. You need to score the minimum PTE score for Canada, which is between 58 and 73, to get accepted into an institution.
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Duolingo English Test
The English language proficiency testing is evolving in Canada and therefore, some institutions in the Great White North have started accepting the Duolingo English test. Similar to other more conventional tests, this one also evaluates all your language abilities through AI technology. Some institutions also mention the minimum score needed for admission.
To pass the Duolingo English Test, you need to obtain a 120 and above score, which is determined on a scale of 10-160. For colleges that accept this test, you need to get a minimum score of 115 or based on the university and course choice.
Taking the English language test is a crucial step for international students aspiring to study in Canada. Before choosing a test, you must research thoroughly the requirements provided by the desired institution and program. Prepare for the chosen test thoroughly, demonstrate your language abilities, and embark on a successful academic journey in Canada.
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