Things to Know about IELTS Requirements to Study in Canada

Canada, one of the most day-dreamed destinations among Indian students, and abroad, houses over 160 reputed universities, institutes and schools offering all levels of education. To maintain a smooth sail, they run a tight ship when recruiting students to their universities. Candidates who fulfil the criteria drawn by these universities can apply for and secure their seats. Canada, among the other 140 countries, recognises the IELTS exam as proof of English proficiency for candidates planning to study, work or settle abroad.

With 4 million tests booked every year around the world, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most trusted English Language Proficiency Test. It is developed and run by the British Council in partnership with IDP, global overseas education consultants, and Cambridge Assessment English.

Why is IELTS required to study in Canada?

At the current times, almost all of the countries offering quality education accept English as one of their primary languages. Over 11,000 institutions globally recognise IELTS as a mandatory criterion to apply for a student visa. It weighs the potential of non-English speakers applying to English-dominated universities. As the first step in your journey to Canada, IELTS scores, quite literally, dictate your life ahead. (No pressure!)

While it is often applied after getting university acceptance, its 2-year-long validity helps if you apply ahead. IELTS is divided into parts to evaluate the four major language abilities – listening, reading, writing and speaking. Scored on a scale from 1 to 9, universities have their unique requirement of scores according to the program one is applying for.

Minimum IELTS Score for Canadian Universities

Once you know the universities you wish to apply to, it’s advised to research their IELTS requirements on the official website of the Canadian immigration authorities, as universities in Canada have different thresholds. Undergraduate and diploma programs require at least 5.5 bands in every section with an overall score of 6.0. Graduate and postgraduate candidates, on the other hand, need to pull a slightly higher overall score of 6.5 with 6.0 bands in every section. Based on their scores, candidates can also explore scholarship opportunities and admission possibilities.

IELTS Band requirements for Canadian Study Visa

As the credibility and global recognition of the university increases, so does their bar of acceptance. When setting a goal at the IELTS, professional advice is to always aim higher. So does the world but it’s their words that count!

Programs with more human interaction and research requirements, like healthcare, psychology, literature and others, require a stronger score. An IELTS score of 7 or above increases the chances of securing a spot in one of the top-ranking colleges or universities for an advanced course. While some do accept lower scores or bands, scores between 6.0 to 6.5 limit the availability of specific courses. It also affects the type of Student Visa you badge.

IELTS Score for Undergraduate Courses

While these scores may vary from university to university, below is a cheat sheet with the average scoring metrics required.

• Bachelor of Business Administration – Minimum 6.0
• Master of Business Administration – Minimum 6.5-7
• Bachelor of Arts – Minimum 6.5
• Master of Arts – Minimum 6.5-7
• Bachelor of Engineering – Minimum 6.5
• Master of Engineering – Minimum 6.5-7
• Master of Architecture – Minimum 6.5-7
• Bachelor of Science – Minimum 6.5
• Bachelor of Psychology – Minimum 6.5
• Master of Education (Psychology) – Minimum 7
• Master of Computer Science – Minimum 6.5

Tips to crack IELTS for Canada

There are so much of resources and tutors available online, and offline, for already-confused aspirants. IELTS plays a mandatory role whether you’re applying to study at a university in Canada or undergoing your visa process. The below tips will help you gain a simpler understanding of cracking IELTS for Canada.

• Understand the test format and make it your religion
• Take practice tests to check all the boxes in your preparation journey
• Use a watch to address the time constraints of the exam and master time management
• Indulge in conversations with different accents. Here is where your Netflix plan pays off!
• Develop a range of reading skills
• Practice writing. Perhaps with a daily journal.

Next step

Once you have attained an impressive score in the IELTS exam (congratulations, by the way!), you can apply for universities and, then, begin your student permit and visa processes. It goes without saying that you will be required to prove financial background to ensure your living conditions in the UK economy.

Have some doubts, connect with us for a FREE CONSULTATION today!