Important update: SDS now included in the regular study permit process.
Effective November 8, 2024, Canada has withdrawal the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express programs for fair access to study permits. With IELTS, you’re on the right track! Stay focused—we're here to guide you every step of the way.
If you're planning to study in Canada as an international student, it's essential to understand the language proficiency requirements for obtaining a study permit. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most widely accepted language proficiency tests for Canadian study permit applications. In this blog, we have highlighted important insights and information about the minimum IELTS score required for a Canada student visa, helping you navigate this crucial aspect of the visa application process with confidence. Read on to learn all you need to know about the minimum IELTS score for a Canada student visa!
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Minimum IELTS scores to study in Canadian universities
In 2024, international students looking to enter a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) will have to provide a provincial attestation letter before applying for a study permit.
Among study permit requirements for eligibility, you will need a letter of acceptance to prove successful enrolment into the university’s undergraduate or postgraduate program. Should you need an English language requirement as part of your university application, you have to attain a minimum overall score of 6.5 on the IELTS Academic test at either the undergraduate or postgraduate level.
Those applying for the fast-track Canadian study permit under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program will also fulfill the English language test requirement with an IELTS Academic overall score of 6.0. SDS is available to residents in 14 countries, such as the Philippines and Vietnam.
Without further ado, here are the minimum IELTS requirements according to the top-ranked universities in Canada.
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings in 2024
One of the world’s most established metrics, the Times Higher Education world rankings assesses universities based on the following five key performance indicators: teaching, research quality, research environment, international outlook, and industry income.
Rank | University | Global rank | IELTS minimum requirement (undergraduate programs) | IELTS minimum requirement (postgraduate programs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | University of Toronto | 21 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
2 | University of British Columbia | 41 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
3 | McGill University | 49 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
4 | McMaster University | 103 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
5 | University of Alberta | 109 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
6 | University of Montreal | 111 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
7 | University of Waterloo | 158 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
8 | University of Ottawa | 177 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
9 | University of Calgary | 201 – 250 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
10 | Western University | 201 – 250 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
11 | UniversitéLaval | 251 – 300 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
12 | Queen’s University | 251 – 300 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
13 | Simon Fraser University | 251 – 300 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
14 | Dalhousie University | 301 – 350 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
15 | University of Manitoba | 351 – 400 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
16 | University of Saskatchewan | 351 – 400 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
17 | University of Victoria | 351 – 400 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
18 | York University | 351 – 400 | 6.5 | 7.5 |
19 | University of Guelph | 401 – 500 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
20 | Université du Québec | 401 – 500 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
QS World University Rankings in 2024
The Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) world rankings is another global premier ranking system that rates universities by institution and subject through academic reputation, citation, faculty-to-student ratio, employer, international, and sustainability indicators.
Rank | University | Global rank | IELTS minimum requirement (undergraduate programs) | IELTS minimum requirement (postgraduate programs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | University of Toronto | 21 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
2 | McGill University | 30 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
3 | University of British Columbia | 34 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
4 | University of Alberta | 111 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
5 | University of Waterloo | 112 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
6 | Western University | 114 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
7 | University of Montreal | 141 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
8 | University of Calgary | 182 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
9 | McMaster University | 189 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
10 | University of Ottawa | 203 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
11 | Queen’s University | 209 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
12 | Dalhousie University | 298 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
13 | Simon Fraser University | 318 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
14 | University of Victoria (UVic) | 322 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
15 | University of Saskatchewan | 345 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
16 | York University | 353 | 6.5 | 7.5 |
17 | Concordia University | 387 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
18 | UniversitéLaval | 441 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
19 | University of Guelph | 486 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
20 | Memorial University of Newfoundland | 641 – 650 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
*Minimum IELTS score accepted, the requirement varies with the course, hence do check when applying.
Canada student visa IELTS band requirements
The language proficiency requirements for obtaining a Canada student visa, also known as a study permit, typically include demonstrating proficiency in English. IELTS is one of the most commonly accepted language proficiency tests for Canadian study permit applications. The minimum IELTS band score requirements may vary depending on the program, institution, or level of study.
However, as a general guideline, most Canadian educational institutions require an overall IELTS band score of 6.0 or 6.5 for undergraduate programs and a higher score of 6.5 or 7.0 for postgraduate programs. It's important to note that the specific IELTS band requirements can vary, and it's recommended to check the official website of the Canadian immigration authorities or the educational institution you plan to apply to for the most up-to-date and accurate information on IELTS score requirements for a Canada student visa.
Minimum IELTS score for Canada based on level of study
To meet the eligibility criteria for a student visa to Canada, it is generally required to achieve a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 in each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) and an overall score of 6.0. However, it's important to note that the specific IELTS requirement may vary depending on the educational institution or program of study.
It's recommended to check the official website of the Canadian immigration authorities or the institution you plan to apply to for the most up-to-date and accurate information on the minimum IELTS score required to study in Canada.
Undergraduate Courses in Canada (Bachelor’s, Diploma, or Short-term) | Overall: Minimum 6 IELTS Each Band: No less than 5.5 |
Postgraduate Courses in Canada (PG Diploma/Masters) | Overall: Minimum of 6.5 IELTS Each Band: No less than 5.5 or 6.0 depending on the institution |
Student Direct Stream (SDS) | Overall: Minimum of 6.0 Each Band: No less than 6.0 |
Why do international students choose IELTS for studying in Canada?
IELTS has consistently remained a popular choice for students seeking to study in Canada for several reasons:
Flexible format options: IELTS offers both IELTS on Computer as well as IELTS on Paper formats, allowing test-takers to choose the format that suits their preferences and comfort level.
Face-to-face speaking test: Unlike some other language proficiency tests, IELTS includes a face-to-face speaking test with a trained examiner. This allows for a more interactive and efficient evaluation, as a human examiner can provide real-time feedback and realistically assess communication skills.
Convenient test frequency: IELTS offers multiple test dates throughout the month for IELTS on Paper tests, and up to seven days a week with three times a day for IELTS on Computer tests. This provides flexibility and convenience for test-takers to schedule the exam as per their availability.
Faster results: For the IELTS on Computer, IELTS results are typically disclosed within 2 days, allowing test-takers to receive their scores quickly and efficiently.
With these advantages, it's no wonder that IELTS continues to be a popular choice for those aspiring to study in Canada, offering a reliable and efficient way to demonstrate their language proficiency.
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