Did you know around 1.3 to 1.4 million individuals sit for the IELTS exam annually?
Students tend to favour IELTS (International English Language Testing System) over other language tests. It has gained recognition from 11,000 institutions globally and is accepted in 140 countries worldwide.
Taking an English proficiency test for admission to universities in Canada is compulsory. IELTS evaluates your speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities on a scale of 1 to 9, with 9 being the highest score.
It is important to note that each Canadian university has its unique IELTS score requirement. Therefore, conducting thorough research and comprehending the reasons behind the diverse IELTS scores for Canada requirements is crucial so that you can prepare yourself accordingly.
In this blog, we’ll discuss everything related to IELTS scores for Canada, including the universities and course requirements!
| Full-Form | International English Language Testing System. |
| Administered by | British Council and IDP |
| Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Modules | 4: Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking |
| Fee | INR 16,250 |
| Popular Countries | The UK, the USA, Canada, Australia |
Why Study in Canada?
Let’s explore reasons to pursue your studies in Canada:
1. Outstanding Academic Standards:
Enrolling in courses in Canada allows you to learn from experienced faculty and gain valuable skills. Canadian universities are also recognised globally for their top-notch facilities.
2. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
This permit enables international students to work in Canada for a duration equivalent to their study program up to three years after completing their studies. The PGWP provides valuable work experience and potential permanent residency.
3. Abundant Career Prospects:
Canada’s job market is diverse and lucrative, offering numerous student opportunities. Employers highly value graduates with Canadian education and work experience.
4. Networking Opportunities:
Pursuing courses in Canada provides a platform to build a strong network of contacts. Universities often have good alum networks and host various networking events. It provides a platform to build a strong network of contacts.
5. Quality of Life:
The country offers a secure and welcoming environment, excellent healthcare and a high standard of living. You can easily maintain a healthy lifestyle while pursuing your studies in Canada.
SDS Canada New IRCC IELTS Requirement 2024 (August 10th Updated)
The IRCC has introduced a new requirement for IELTS in the SDS Canada programme as of August 10, 2023.
This program (SDS) is for Indian students applying to universities and colleges in Canada, which means they can now expect faster visa processing through the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program launched by the Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Now, if you’re applying through the SDS programme, you only need an overall IELTS Academic score of 6 bands. You no longer have to achieve a minimum score of 6.0 in each module.
This change is a positive move towards valuing students’ overall abilities rather than excessively emphasising individual band scores.
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How much IELTS Band is required for Canada in 2024?
Meeting the language requirements can be pretty stringent if you want to gain admission to a leading Canadian university. To be eligible, you must satisfy specific criteria for each section and overall score.
- A higher level of English proficiency is expected for courses like healthcare or psychology involving more human interaction.
- Likewise, subjects like English literature, which require understanding complex information, demand strong language skills.
- An IELTS score of 7 and above increases your chances of securing a spot in a top-ranking university or advanced-level course.
- Scores between 6.0 and 6.5 can get you into high- to mid-ranking universities, but with limitations on specific courses.
- While some universities accept a score of 5.5, aiming for 6 and above is advisable.
- For visa applications, the required IELTS score for Canada varies based on the type of visa.
- Generally, a score above 6.0 is recommended for a student visa.
| Undergraduate Courses | Postgraduate Courses | Study Direct Stream |
| (Bachelors, Diploma) | (PG Diploma, Masters) | Overall, 6 Bands with no less than 6 in each module |
| Overall, 6 Bands with no less than 5.5 in each module | Overall, 6.5 Bands with no less than 5.5-6.0 in each module(depending upon the institution) |
IELTS Score for Undergraduate Courses
Understanding the required IELTS scores is crucial when pursuing undergraduate programmes. The following are some average IELTS scores for top undergraduate programmes.
However, it’s important to note that these scores may vary from one university to the next. Therefore, checking with the specific university for precise requirements is always advisable.
| Course | Minimum IELTS Score |
| Bachelor of Business Administration | 6 |
| Bachelor of Arts | 6.5 |
| Bachelor of Engineering | 6.5 |
| Bachelor of Science | 6.5 |
| Bachelor of Psychology | 6.5 |
IELTS Score for Graduate Courses
Many universities will ask you to provide an IELTS score as part of your application for graduate courses like MS, MBA and many more. The minimum score required may vary depending on the institution and the specific program of study.Â
It is important to research the requirements of each university and program before applying to ensure that you meet the necessary criteria. A higher IELTS score can improve your chances of acceptance into a competitive graduate program and make you eligible for specific scholarships and funding opportunities.
| Course | Minimum IELTS Score |
| Master of Architecture | 6.5-7 |
| Master of Computer Science | 6.5 |
| Master of Education (in Psychology) | 7 |
| MBA | 6.5-7 |
| Master of Arts | 6.5-7 |
| Master of Engineering | 6.5 |
IELTS Score for Canada: Top 10 Universities
Canadian universities are known for offering courses and degree programs across various disciplines, from business and engineering to arts and humanities. These places provide top-tier amenities, faculty, and infrastructure, creating a welcoming environment for students to excel in their education.
Canada hosts numerous globally renowned universities and colleges, providing various degree programs. Last year, over 1.8 million students chose Canada for their higher education journey.
Let’s explore the minimum IELTS scores some top Canadian universities require.
| Name of the College or University | Overall IELTS Score for Canada |
| University of Toronto | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
| University of Alberta | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
| University of British Columbia | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
| McMaster University | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
| McGill University | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
| University of Calgary | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
| University of Ottawa | 6.5 (6.5 in writing) |
| University of Montreal | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
| Queen’s University | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
| Dalhousie University | 6.5 (6 in each module) |
What if you do not get your Ideal IELTS Score for Canada?
Securing the ideal IELTS score for Canada can be challenging, and not all applicants may meet the minimum score requirements of their desired universities.
However, there are still viable alternatives that you can consider if you do not achieve your desired IELTS score for Canada.
- English Language Preparation Programs
Many universities and colleges in Canada offer English language preparation programs for international students who do not meet the minimum IELTS score for Canada.
These programs typically cover English language skills such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking and may also include cultural orientation and academic support.
- Conditional Admission Programs
Some universities and colleges in Canada offer conditional admission programs for international students who do not meet the minimum IELTS score for Canada’s requirements but show potential for academic success.
Under these programs, you may be admitted to the university or college on a conditional basis, with the requirement to enrol in additional English language courses alongside your regular coursework.
You may be eligible for full admission to your chosen program once you complete the required English language courses and achieve the necessary proficiency level.
- Community Colleges
Also known as junior colleges or two-year colleges, are an alternative option for international students who do not meet the minimum IELTS score for Canada’s top universities.
Community colleges typically have lower admission requirements and offer a wide range of courses, including English language courses, at a more affordable cost than four-year universities.
Completing a program at a community college and achieving a certain GPA may allow you to transfer to a four-year university to pursue your desired undergraduate or graduate program.
- Retake the IELTS Exam
If you did not achieve your ideal IELTS score, you might consider retaking the exam to improve your score.
It’s essential to thoroughly prepare for the exam by taking practice tests, understanding the test format, and seeking guidance from experienced instructors or tutors.
With determination, effort, and proper preparation, you can still achieve your academic goals, even if you do not initially meet the ideal IELTS score for Canada.
Fact: 6-6.5 is a commonly accepted IELTS score for Canada.
If you have questions about IELTS Scores for Canada or need help preparing for the test, connect with our highly experienced and skilled IELTS counsellors. They’re here to guide you in doing your best on the IELTS exam.
How to Get a Good IELTS Score in Canada?
Here are a few things to consider when preparing for your IELTS Exam:
- Know the Test Format: Review the different test sections, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Practice with sample test questions and know the time constraints of each section to be better prepared on test day.
- Develop Strong English Language Skills: Read English newspapers, books, and articles, practice writing essays on different topics, listen to English podcasts or watch English movies, and converse with English speakers to enhance language proficiency.
- Take Practice Tests: Practice tests allow you to simulate the real test environment and know the types of questions and tasks you may encounter. Analyse your performance on practice tests and identify areas that need improvement to focus your study efforts accordingly.
- Time Management: Learn to pace yourself and spend only a little time on a single question or section, as it may result in not completing all the tasks. Practice answering questions within the allotted time for each section to develop time management skills.
- Seek Feedback and Guidance: Experienced instructors or tutors can provide valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses. They can provide feedback on your writing and speaking skills, suggest areas for improvement, and offer strategies to score better on the test. Joining an IELTS preparation course with Leap Scholar and working with an expert can provide structured guidance and support in your test preparation journey.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Take deep breaths, read and understand the instructions carefully, and answer the questions to the best of your ability. Confidence and a positive mindset can help you perform better on the test.
What is the Required IELTS Score For a Canadian Student Visa?
If you want to obtain a Canada student visa, also known as a study permit, you must typically demonstrate proficiency in English. One of the widely accepted language proficiency tests is IELTS, and the minimum band score requirements may vary depending on the level of study, program, or institution.Â
As a general guideline, most Canadian universities 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. However, the specific IELTS band score requirements can differ, and it’s advisable to check the official website of the Canadian immigration authorities or the educational institution you plan to apply to for the latest and accurate information on IELTS score criteria for a Canada student visa.
Canada Study Permit
The Canadian study permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows international students to study in Canada. To be eligible for a study permit, you must have a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), demonstrate that they have enough money to pay for their tuition and living expenses, and show that they have no criminal record and are in good health.
Additionally, you may be required to provide biometric information and undergo a medical examination. The specific requirements may vary depending on the country of origin and the length of the course of study.
How do you send your IELTS score to Canadian universities?
IELTS authorities allow you to submit your IELTS scores for Canada to at least 5 colleges of your choice to be selected during the IELTS registration process.
Here’s how to register for IELTS and send your IELTS result to Canadian Universities:
- Visit the official IELTS website.
- Select the ‘Take an exam’ and ‘IELTS’ options and click on ‘IELTS registration.’
- Click the ‘Register for IELTS now’ button next.
- Fill in all the essential information to get the exam dates. The test date availability will then be displayed on the next page.
- Select one of the available dates and click ‘Apply.’
- Read the terms carefully, then mark them in the text box next to ‘Continue.’
- You will be requested to fill out your personal information on the following page.
- Finally, you can choose whether or not to send your IELTS results to other universities. To send your result, select ‘Yes.’
- Click on the ‘Continue’ option after filling in all the necessary information.
- On the next page, specify the universities you want to send your IELTS scores.
After you complete the form, the test centre will send free copies of your IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) to the top five universities you’ve chosen.
To send your IELTS score for Canada, use the TRF (Test Report Form), a duplicate of your scorecard. You can acquire your TRF within 13 days of taking the IELTS. After the results are released, you can pick up your TRF from your local IDP IELTS office.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a good score in IELTS is crucial if you wish to study in Canada. It is necessary to demonstrate strong communication and correspondence skills to obtain a student visa and gain admission to educational institutions in Canada.
Seeking feedback and guidance from experienced instructors or tutors, staying calm and confident during the exam, and sending the IELTS score to the selected universities are crucial factors that can help students achieve their desired scores.
Need help with your IELTS preparation?
Here’s how Leap Scholar can help you:
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With Leap Scholar’s well-structured IELTS Elite Course, you can confidently prepare for the IELTS exam and aim for a higher score.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is the significance of IELTS scores in admission?
A. Universities require non-native students to take the IELTS test to keep up with the curriculum. Many top universities use standardised tests like IELTS to create a level playing field for applicants from diverse linguistic backgrounds. A standardised test helps them ensure that all applicants are evaluated on the same criteria, regardless of their native language. Certain academic programs, especially language-intensive or involving high communication and interaction, may have specific minimum IELTS score requirements.
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Q. Is 6.5 IELTS sufficient for admission to Canadian universities?
A. Most Canadian universities accept IELTS exam scores ranging from 6 to 6.5. However, to gain admission to a top-ranked university in Canada, you must score at least 7.0. A score of 6.5 on the IELTS is generally considered a moderate score. It might be sufficient for admission to some universities and programs, especially those that do not have extremely high language proficiency requirements. However, it’s important to understand that the specific English language proficiency requirements can vary widely between universities and programs.
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Q. What IELTS score is required for a student visa in Canada?
A. Most universities’ required IELTS score for a student visa in Canada is 6.5. The English language proficiency requirements for a study permit in Canada can vary depending on the specific institution and program you plan to attend. Each university or college may have minimum English language proficiency requirements for international students.
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Q. How many universities in Canada accept IELTS scores?
A. The IELTS test score is accepted and recognised by over 3,400 educational institutions in Canada. When considering applying to specific universities in Canada, visiting their official websites and checking their admission requirements for international students is recommended. Most universities provide clear information about the accepted English language proficiency tests, including IELTS, and the minimum score requirements for each program. For instance, the University of Toronto and British Columbia expect an overall band of 6.5, with no less than 6 in each module.
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Q. Do Canadian universities accept 5.5 scores?
A. Yes, a few colleges give admissions for students with low IELTS band scores of 6.0 and 5.5. A score of 5.5 on the IELTS might not be widely accepted by many universities in Canada, especially for academic programs. While there might be exceptions or specific programs with lower language proficiency requirements, a score of 5.5 is generally considered a lower English proficiency.
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Q. Is IELTS valid for 3 years in Canada?
A. No, the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) result is valid for two years in Canada. After that period, you must retake the test to use it as proof of your English language proficiency.
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Q. How can I score well in my IELTS Exam?
A. If you want to score well in IELTS, you must focus on improving your language skills, especially in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Practice with authentic IELTS materials to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Additionally, understand the test requirements well and learn useful strategies to manage your time and approach questions effectively. Lastly, stay calm and confident during the exam to perform best.
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Q. What is the new rule of SDS in Canada?
A. Under the new SDS Canada requirements, applying through the SDS programme only requires an overall IELTS Academic score of 6 bands. You no longer have to achieve a minimum score of 6.0 in each module.
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Q. Can you retake one skill in IELTS?
A. Yes, it is possible to retake just one skill in IELTS. The test consists of four sections – Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking – and you can retake any of them individually. However, it’s important to note that the IELTS test fee applies to each section, so retaking one skill will still incur a cost of INR 16,250.
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Q. What are the three parts of the IELTS Speaking Test?
A. The IELTS Speaking test has three parts. The three parts are as follows:
Introduction and Interview: In this part, you must answer questions about yourself and your family.
Cue Card Round: You will have to speak about a given topic, which will be assigned to you by the examiner on the spot.
Long Discussion: In this part, a more extended discussion between you and the examiner will occur about the topic you have spoken about in part 2. -
Q. What is the minimum score on the (IELTS) that is required for immigration to Canada?
A. The required score on the IELTS for immigration to Canada varies depending on the immigration program. Having a better score is beneficial when applying through the Express Entry procedure. Generally, having a CLB score of seven or higher in each language skill is preferable.
