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How many IELTS bands do you need to study in Canada?

Published on November 26, 2023 (updated November 26, 2023)

How many IELTS bands do you need to study in Canada?

English is the primary means of communication when starting your educational journey in Canada. Let's explore the required IELTS scores for studying in Canada at different academic levels, from high school to master's, with LOA Portal.

What is the IELTS certificate?

The IELTS certificate stands for "International English Language Testing System." It is an international English language test designed to assess the ability of non-native speakers to use English. IELTS is one of the most widely recognized English language tests globally and is accepted by over 10,000 organizations, schools, training facilities, and government agencies.

IELTS assesses four main English skills, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. IELTS scores range from 0 to 9, with each skill assessed separately. Schools and international institutions often require IELTS scores to ensure that students or learners have sufficient English proficiency to participate in academic programs or work.

Sample IELTS Certificate Conditions for studying in Canada

How much IELTS do Canadian schools require?

  • High School Level

High schools typically do not require IELTS scores; students may be interviewed directly or take a school test to assess their abilities and be placed in classes based on individual capabilities.

All about the Ontario Secondary School Diploma in Canada

  • College Level

Colleges offering diploma programs in Canada usually require IELTS scores ranging from 6.0 (varies by field).

  • University Level

University undergraduate programs require higher IELTS scores, usually 6.5 to 7.0, depending on the institution and field of study.

  • Master's Level

Master's programs often require higher IELTS scores, usually 7.0 or above. Specialized fields may require even higher scores. Additionally, Master's programs may have additional requirements.

Learn more: Canada Master’s Study Abroad: Tremendous Advantage for immigration path

Check the requirements and fees for over 5000 study programs at 200 Canadian institutions on the LOA Portal website

Do you need a certain IELTS score for a Canadian study visa?

The Study Direct Stream (SDS) is a program of the Canadian government that applies to some countries, including Vietnam. It allows study permit applicants to submit a visa application without demonstrating financial capacity or monthly family income. This program is available for College, University, and Master's levels, but not for high school level.

Requirements for submitting a visa application under SDS:

  • IELTS Academic score of 6.0 or higher, with no specific skill band requirement
  • Payment of the first-year tuition fees
  • Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth CAD 10,000

What do you need to prepare for studying in Canada without financial proof?

More IELTS points, can you still study in Canada?

If you don't meet the IELTS requirement of 6.0 for SDS and don't meet the English language requirement for the main course, you can still study in Canada. Consider some options:

Enroll in an English language program at the school

Some schools offer English language programs for students who haven't met the English requirements for the main course. Before entering the main course, you may need to take some English language courses based on your English proficiency test results.

Register for an English course at ILAC

ILAC offers a University Pathway program in partnership with 99 colleges and universities in Canada, such as Algoma University, George Brown College, Fanshawe College, Humber College, Seneca College, etc. Completing this course can help students meet the English requirements of partner institutions and continue their main program.

Students who pass the entrance test with a score of level 10 or higher can join this course.

Details about ILAC: Long-standing International Language Academy of Canada

Take the Duolingo test

You can take the Duolingo English Test online at home, covering all four skills in about 60 minutes. Some schools that accept English proficiency through Duolingo scores include:

Study abroad with financial proof

In cases where you don't have an IELTS certificate and don't meet the English language requirements through the above methods, you can apply for a visa through financial proof. However, this option requires the family to have sufficient financial conditions and prove the ability to cover tuition and living expenses while studying in Canada.

Some related financial documents required:

  • Confirmation of deposit in the bank for the last 2 months
  • Savings account
  • Employment contract, social insurance, personal income tax declaration, salary account statement, etc., to prove employment and income
  • Business license, tax receipt (within 6 months) if parents are in business
  • Certificates of ownership of houses, land, cars, etc.

Note: When submitting a financial proof visa application, you need to include the Letter of Acceptance (if available) or provide detailed information about the English language course you will take to improve your English proficiency and follow the main program in Canada.

Details of 6 steps for a Canadian study visa

How many IELTS points do you need to study in Canada?

IELTS scores required range from about 6.0 or higher, depending on the field, the institution, and alternative options if you don't have enough IELTS points. However, achieving the necessary IELTS score for studying in Canada is a condition set by the school and the key to unlocking a diverse educational journey and experience in the North American country. For those looking to confidently embark on this journey, improving your English skills in Vietnam is a reasonable and cost-effective choice.