Update October 2026
Post-Graduation Work Permit applicants now need CLB 7 (university graduates) or CLB 5 (college graduates), with a test less than two years old. See PGWP and study permits.
To study in Canada, international students must meet certain language requirements to demonstrate their ability to study.
Language Proficiency Requirements
The language requirements for international students are set by the tertiary education institutions. This means that the language requirements for each College or University can differ greatly.
If you intend to study in Canada, it is important that you research the applicable language proficiency requirements set by the university or college where you are interested in undertaking studies.
|
University |
Minimum IETLS Score Required |
| University of Toronto | Minimum 6.5, not less than 6.0 in each component |
| McGill University | |
| University of British Colombia | |
| Université de Montreal | Studies are conducted in French
Applicants must complete a TEF Express (Test d’Évaluation du français Express) Students must check the course requirements to determine the level of French expected |
| University of Alberta |
Minimum 6.5, not less than 6.0 in each component |
| McMaster University | |
| University of Waterloo | |
| Western University | |
| Queen’s University | |
| University of Calgary | Minimum 6.5, not less than 6.0 in each component
· Education – minimum 8.0, no bands below 7.0 · Nursing – minimum 7.0, no bands below 7.0 |
Language Proficiency Exemptions
Some international students may be exempt from meeting the language proficiency requirements of the College or University they apply to in Canada. It is important that you conduct your own research to ensure that if you are seeking to rely on one of these exemptions that your educational institution accepts them. There are commonly two types of exemptions:
English or French as First Language
If your first language is English or French, it is common that educational institutions do not require you to prove your language proficiency. This is usually demonstrated by the international student’s country of origin. If you are travelling to Canada from a country where English or French is the dominant language this is usually sufficient to prove your language proficiency.
Previous Education in English or French
As an international student, if you have previously completed education at the post-secondary level in English or French, you may be exempt from having to demonstrate your language proficiency.
English Language Tests
There is a numerous English language tests available however it is important to research the college or university you are hoping to study at to determine the tests they accept as part of your application. Some of the English language tests include:
Adriana Chipman
Juris Doctor (University of Melbourne)
Adriana is one of our immigration agent assistants. She graduated from the Juris Doctor at the University of Melbourne at the end of 2020. She is currently completing her Graduate Diploma in Practical Legal Training at Leo Cussen Centre for Law in Melbourne, Victoria.
With her experience in volunteering for not-for-profit organisations in addition to conducting legal research, drafting documents, and engaging with clients
Adriana works to assist our team in any and all administration matters relating to immigration.
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