Average IELTS Scores for the Best Universities in Canada

International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )

Raj
Raj Vimal
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Sep 19, 2024 18:57 IST

IELTS is one of the most popular English proficiency tests in the world. Multiple universities in Canada accept IELTS scores at the time of offering admission to international students. The required IELTS score varies for every university or college, so you need to verify the minimum IELTS Score for universities in Canada before you apply.

IELTS Scores for the Best Universities in Canada

Want to study in Canada? Good score in English proficiency exams is an important eligibility to study in Canada. IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL and Duolingo are some well-known English proficiency tests in the world. Canadian Universities accept scores of all these exams at the time of offering admission. In this article, we will discuss the minimum IELTS score for Canada. 

The medium of education in Canadian universities is English, so it is mandatory that students should be able to understand it well. The minimum IELTS score for Canadian universities varies as per the requirements of the universities. The table below will help you gain knowledge about the average IELTS scores that are required at top universities in Canada. We have provided the average overall IELTS exam scores and the individual scores for ListeningReadingWriting, and Speaking sections.

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IELTS Score to Study in Canada: Universities and Colleges

Here is the university-wise IELTS score required for getting admission.

Colleges and University

Overall IELTS Score

Listening

Reading

Writing

Speaking

Athabasca University

6

 

Acadia University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Algoma University

6

6

6

6

6

Bishop’s University

6.5

 

Brandon University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Brescia University College

6.5

6

6

6

6

Capilano University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Campion College

6.5

6

6

6

6

Camosun College

6

6

6

6

6

Charles Sturt University

6

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

College of New Caledonia

6

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

(⁎) Concordia University

6.5

6.5

6.5

6.5

6.5

Confederation College of Applied Arts and Technology

6

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

Canadian Mennonite University

6.5

 

Cape Breton University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Carleton University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Dalhousie University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Durham College of Applied Arts and Technology

6.5

6

6

6

6

Emily Carr University of Art + Design

6.5

6

6

6

6

(⁎) Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology

6.5

 

George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology

6.5

6

6

6

6

Grant MacEwan University

6.5

6

5.5

5.5

7

Huron University College

6.5

6

6

6

6

HEC Montréal

7

 

Kwantlen Polytechnic University

6.5

6

6

6

6

King’s University College at The University of Western Ontario

6.5

6

6

6

6

Lakehead University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Luther College

6.5

 

Laurentian University

6.5

6

6

6

6

MacEwan University

6.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

McMaster University

6.5

6

6

6

6

McGill University

6.5

 

Mount Royal University

6.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

Memorial University

6.5

6

6

6.5

6.5

Mount Saint Vincent University

7

6.5

6.5

6.5

6.5

Mount Allison University

6.5

6

6

6

6

(⁎) Niagara College

6.5

6

6

6

6

Nipissing University

6.5

6.5

6.5

6.5

6.5

(⁎) NSCAD University

7

6

6

6

6

Ontario College of Art and Design

6.5

6

6

6

6

OCAD University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Oxford College

6

 

Redeemer University College

6.5

 

Royal Roads University

6.5

6

6

6.5

6.5

Ryerson University

6.5

 

 

 

 

Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology

6.5

Simon Fraser University

7

6.5

6.5

6.5

6.5

St. Francis Xavier University

6.5

6

6

6

6

St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology

6

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

St. Thomas University

6.5

 

St. Mary’s University

6.5

6

6

6

6

St. Thomas More College

6.5

 

The University of British Columbia

6.5

6

6

6

6

The Canadian Academy of Dental Health and Community Sciences

6

 

King’s University College

6.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

5.5

Trent University

6.5

6

6

6

6

(⁎) Thompson Rivers University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Trinity Western University

6.5

 

6

 

University of Alberta

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Lethbridge

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Guelph

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of New Brunswick

6.5

 

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of St. Michael’s College

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Trinity College

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Sudbury

6.5

 

University of Manitoba

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Northern British Columbia

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Ottawa

6.5

 

6.5

 

University of Saskatchewan

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Western Ontario

6.5

6

6

6

6

(⁎) University of Prince Edward Island

6.5

6.5

6.5

7

6.5

University of Regina

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of the Fraser Valley

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Victoria

7

6.5

6.5

6.5

6.5

University of Toronto

6.5

6

6

6

6

University of Winnipeg

6.5

 

University of Windsor

6.5

Vancouver Island University

6.5

6

6

6

6

Wilfrid Laurier University

6.5

6

6

6

6

York University

6.5

 

Note: Universities and Colleges with (⁎) in front of their names have different IELTS score requirements for different courses.

FAQs

Q. Why should I appear for an IELTS exam?

A. Countries such as Canada, the UK, the USA, etc., where English is the primary language, require international students to hold an IELTS score if they wish to get employed, study or migrate there. The exam will score your performance on a scale of 1 to 9 and will test your reading, speaking, listening, and writing ability in English. Over 11,000 employers, colleges, universities, and immigration bodies recognise this test.

Q. How much IELTS score is considered a good score?

A. It is always good to score high in the IELTS exam as the competition is stiff. Each university/institution will have a different IELTS score preference which you will have to meet in order to get admission. Langauge experts from countries such as the UK, the USA, Canada, etc., design the questions for this test.  

Q. Should I take IELTS on a computer or paper?

A. The advantage that the online IELTS has over the paper-based one is that more dates are available to appear for the same. Also, those attempting the test can select their own preferred time to appear for the same and the results will also be obtained in 3-5 days. For both the modes of the test, the content, structure of test and timing remain the same.  

Q. What are the types of IELTS tests?

A. The two types of IELTS include IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. While the former can be attempted both online, at a test venue or home or other location as well in as paper-based mode, the latter can only be attempted at a centre on computer or paper. The listening and speaking sections are the same for both types of tests, whereas the reading and writing sections will be different.  

Q. Can I re-take a specific module of the test if I score less in it?

A. Earlier, if a test taker was unable to get the targeted score in any module of IELTS then he/she was required to appear for the entire exam again. But as per a recent update, a 'One Skill Retake' provision will be provided where test takers will be allowed to appear only for the module in which they scored less.

Q:   Which is the best book for IELTS preparation?

A:
Hi, some of the popular books for IELTS preparation include The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS Cambridge IELTS 10 Self-Study Pack Barron’s Essential Words for the IELTS Cambridge IELTS 11 There is no such best book as what is best for me might not be best for you. These are generally the most followed books by test takers.

Q:   How to crack IELTS on the first attempt?

A:

Yes, it is possible to clear the IELTS exam in the first attempt. Many test takers achieve their desired scores in their initial attempt with proper preparation, study, and understanding of the exam format. Success in the IELTS exam depends on various factors, including your existing English language skills, familiarity with the test format, preparation strategies, and overall test-day performance. By dedicating sufficient time and effort to study, practising with sample questions and mock tests, and familiarizing yourself with the test structure and timing, you can increase your chances of achieving your target score.

It is important to note that individual results may vary, and success in the IELTS exam depends on personal factors and preparation. Some test takers may require multiple attempts to reach their desired scores. Regardless of the outcome, treat each attempt as a learning opportunity and use the experience to identify areas for improvement. Seeking guidance from experienced tutors or attending preparatory courses can also be beneficial in enhancing your preparation and performance in the exam.

Q:   How can I practice for IELTS exam on my own?

A:

Practicing for the IELTS exam independently can be effective with the right resources. Here are some tips:

  • Use Official Practice Materials: Utilize books and online resources that provide sample questions and practice tests.
  • Set a Study Schedule: Allocate specific times for each section of the exam to ensure balanced preparation.
  • Focus on Weak Areas: Identify which sections you find most challenging and dedicate more time to practicing those.
  • Engage with English Content: Read English newspapers, watch movies or shows in English, and listen to podcasts to improve your language skills.
  • Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions by taking full-length practice tests to build familiarity with the test format.

Q:   Is 5.5 a pass mark in IELTS?

A:

While there is no formal pass mark, a score of 5.5 may be acceptable for some institutions or programs, particularly those with lower English proficiency requirements. However, many universities and immigration programs typically require higher scores, often around 6.0 or above.

Q:   How do I pass IELTS in 15 days?

A:

Passing the IELTS in 15 days requires focused preparation. Here's a suggested plan:

  1. Assess Your Current Level: Take a practice test to identify strengths and weaknesses.
  2. Create a Study Plan: Allocate specific days for each section of the exam (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
  3. Daily Practice: Dedicate several hours each day to practice questions from each section.
  4. Use Online Resources: Leverage online platforms offering IELTS preparation courses or materials.
  5. Engage in Speaking Practice: Find a study partner or use language exchange apps to practice speaking English regularly.
  6. Review Grammar and Vocabulary: Focus on improving your grammar skills and expanding your vocabulary relevant to common IELTS topics.

Q:   What is a good IELTS score?

A:

A good IELTS score can vary depending on your specific goals, such as study abroad requirements, visa applications, or employment opportunities. Different institutions and organizations may have different score requirements, so it is essential to research and understand the specific score expectations for your intended purpose. In general, a score of 6.5 or higher is considered a good IELTS score. However, this may differ based on the individual's needs and the requirements of the institution or organisation they are applying to.

Some universities and programs may have higher score requirements, especially for competitive programs or fields of study. It is crucial to review the score requirements of the institutions or organizations you are interested in and aim to achieve a score that meets their criteria. Additionally, consider your own personal goals and requirements when determining what constitutes a good IELTS score for you. Get more details at What is a good IELTS score?

Q:   What is the IELTS exam passing score?

A:

There is no pass or fail in the IELTS exam. Students taking the IELTS exam are graded on their performance in the IELTS test using Bands from 1 – 9 for each skill of the test: Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing. Candidates would also receive an overall band score which would be the average of all the individual scores received by the candidate and rounded to the nearest half band. The IELTS exam does not have a passing score. Universities abroad would have an IELTS minimum score requirement which is often referred to as the IELTS cut-off. This is the minimum score that candidates need to achieve to apply to the university. Candidates should note that getting the minimum IELTS score does not guarantee admission to the university. Candidates are required to score higher than the expected IELTS cut-off.

Q:   Which month is the best for taking the IELTS exam?

A:

The choice of the best month for taking the IELTS exam can vary depending on individual circumstances and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as your level of preparedness, availability of study time, and the application deadlines of the institutions or organizations you are planning to apply to. Some students may prefer to take the exam during months with fewer personal commitments or distractions, while others may choose months that align with their study schedules or coincide with the application cycles of their desired programs or universities.

It's advisable to plan ahead and consider factors such as the time needed for preparation, availability of test dates, and personal circumstances. Additionally, it can be helpful to check the availability of test slots and the registration process on the official websites of IDP IELTS India. Ultimately, the best month for you to take the IELTS exam will depend on your specific situation and preferences.

About the Author
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Written by
Raj Vimal
Study Abroad Expert

Raj Vimal has experience of 7+ years in SEO Content Writing, which includes 5+ years in the Ed-Tech industry. He has written articles about studying abroad, especially in the USA, UK, and other English-speaking coun... Read Full Bio

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Comments

(577)

B

Bikram Bhusal

a year ago

Is PTE overall band 58 okay for student visa for australia

Reply to Bikram Bhusal

M

Muskan

a year ago

Sir I have got overall 6 but 5.5 in reading and listening which University is better

Reply to Muskan

R

Rahul Singha

a year ago

Hello Muskan. Do get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for assistance with university admissions here: https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/apply

p

priya bhardwaj

2 years ago

Hi sir... I got overall 6.5 bands L-7.5, R and S -6 but W-5.5.. i want to study related with nursing.. Can i apply for any nursing coures

Reply to priya bhardwaj

R

Rahul Singha

a year ago

Hello Priya. Do get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for assistance with university admissions here: https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/apply

46560465
Ankit

2 years ago

Same here

M

Mazen Ahmed

2 years ago

Hi Sir, i got L:6.5 R:6 W:5.5 S:6.5 and over all got 6 , so which college could accept me for project management course?

Reply to Mazen Ahmed

A

Aprant Agarwal

2 years ago

Hi Mazen. The above article provides the IELTS requirements for various colleges. You can check this list once again. Additionally, you can refer to this link: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/canada/certificate-diploma-in-project-management-courses-sl

Sir I got lis-6 R- 6 w-5.5 S-5.5 overall-6 so I am eligible for Canadian visa as I am a sales engineer by profession

Reply to Virbhadrasinh Raol

A

Aprant Agarwal

2 years ago

Hello Virbhadra. In case if you want to apply to Canadian Universities, the IELTS cut-offs have been mentioned above. Here is a link to the Canada Student Visa Guide: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/canada-student-visa-guide-applycontent5772 If you are looking for a PR, you need to understand how

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