Minimum IELTS Score for Canada: Top University Band Requirements, Student Visa
International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )
Talk to ExpertThinking of studying in Canada? It’s one of the best choices for Indian students with its top-notch education and excellent career prospects. Wondering what IELTS score required for Canada? The article includes the minimum IELTS band requirements for top Canada universities, popular courses, and visa details.
While shortlisting the best country to study abroad for Indian students, you must have explored the studying in Canada option. Canada is an attractive option for many international students due to its high-quality education and better career prospects.
If you're planning to study in Canada as an international student, it is important to know about language proficiency requirements for obtaining a Canada study permit. Many top universities in Canada require IELTS, as their admission requirements.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
Now, the question will be in your mind how much IELTS score required for Canada? One should note that the minimum IELTS score required to study in Canada is an overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS Academic test at either the undergraduate or postgraduate level. While the IELTS requirements for top universities in Canada will be slightly high and range between 7.0-7.5. In this article, we have given details about the IELTS score required for Canada, and course wise band requirements to study in Canada.
Minimum IELTS score to study in Canada
The Canadian universities generally require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each module (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). The minimum IELTS score required for Canada for Masters will be around 6.5 overall and 6.0 per module. These details on IELTS requirements in Canada given above are just general data, as the IELTS score will vary university to university and even course to course.
| Level of Study |
Minimum IELTS Score |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Programs |
Overall: Minimum of 6 IELTS score in each band: No less than 5.5 |
| Postgraduate Programs |
Overall: Minimum of 6.5 IELTS score in each band: No less than 5.5 or 6.0 |
| Student Direct Stream (SDS) |
Overall: Minimum of 6.0 IELTS score in each band: No less than 6.0 |
IELTS Score Requirements for Top Universities in Canada
Who doesn't want to study at top Canadian universities? Studying from the best university in Canada will help you to build a better career in future. Getting admission in a top Canadian university will come with some admission prerequisites. Proving English language proficiency with a standardized test like IELTS is one of the requirements. One can check the below mentioned table to know what is the IELTS score for Canada to study in top universities.
| QS Ranking |
University |
Minimum IELTS Score |
|---|---|---|
| 25 |
University of Toronto |
6.5 & Above |
| 29 |
McGill University |
6.5 & Above |
| 38 |
University of British Columbia |
6.5 & Above |
| 96 |
University of Alberta |
6.5 & Above |
| 115 |
University of Waterloo |
6.5 & Above |
| 120 |
Western University |
6.5 & Above |
| 159 |
Université de Montréal |
6.5 & Above |
| 176 |
McMaster University |
6.5 & Above |
| 189 |
University of Ottawa |
6.5 & Above |
| 193 |
Queen's University at Kingston |
6.5 & Above |
| 198 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 275 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 319 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 340 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 349 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 362 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 415 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 423 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 456 |
6.5 & Above |
|
| 547 |
6.5 & Above |
The general minimum IELTS score to study in top Universities in Canada will be 6.5 above, which will be little higher for some popular courses.
Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Universities
Indian students who are planning to study in Canada have queries on how much band required for Canada after 12th. As getting a good IELTS score is a little challenging, they often search for what band of IELTS required for Canada. To help students, we have researched queries like IELTS 5 accepted in universities in Canada, or is IELTS 4.5 accepted in universities in Canada. A list of Canadian universities with minimum IELTS score has been mentioned in the table below.
| University Name |
Minimum Overall Required IELTS Score |
|---|---|
| 6.0; no band below 6.0 |
|
| 6.0 overall (no sub-score less than 6.0) |
|
| Minimum overall IELTS band score of 6.5 and a minimum score of 5.5 in Reading and Writing, 6.0 in Listening and 7.0 in Speaking |
|
| 6.0 overall and no band below 6 |
|
| 6.0 overall No individual band under 5.5 |
|
| Minimum overall score: 6.5; No section less than: 6.0 |
|
| 6.5 and no band less than 6.0 |
|
| 6.5 |
Canada Universities Accepting IELTS 5.5
Here are some universities and colleges in Canada that accept an IELTS score of 5.5:
| University Name |
Minimum Overall Required IELTS Score |
|---|---|
| Overall 6.0, no band below 5.5 |
|
| Concordia University |
Overall score of 6.0 and no part under 5.5 |
| Overall band score 5.5 overall, and no one score less than 5.0 |
|
| Overall band score 5.5 or higher, with a minimum 5.5 in each band |
|
| Overall minimum score of 6.0 (with no single test score below 5.5) |
IELTS 4.5 accepted in universities in Canada
It is almost impossible to get admission in Canada on an IELTS score of 4.5. Generally IELTS score of 4.5, is generally not accepted by most reputable Canadian universities for undergraduate or graduate programs .
IELTS Requirements for Best Course to Study in Canada
When considering studying in Canada, understanding the IELTS requirements for popular courses is crucial, as they vary significantly among programs. Top Courses in Canada include Business Management, IT & Computer Science, Engineering, Health, Biosciences & Pharmacy, Media & Journalism and more.
IELTS Score for MBA in Canada
Studying MBA in Canada requires an overall IELTS band score of 6.5. While, getting admission in top MBA colleges in Canada requires an overall IELTS score of 7.0 & above. So, one who wants to study MBA in Canada should aim for a good IELTS score of 7.0 and above. Candidates can check the IELTS score requirement to study MBA in Canada from below.
| MBA University |
Minimum IELTS score requirement |
|---|---|
| 7 & Above |
|
| 7 & Above |
|
| 6.5 - 7 |
|
| 6.5 - 7.5 |
|
| 7 & Above |
IELTS Score for MS Universities in Canada for International
When applying for MS in Canada, international students should be aware of the IELTS score for Canada. The overall IELTS band score to study MS in Canada is generally between 6.5 and 7.0. However, many Canadian universities require no less than 6.0 or 6.5 in each IELTS section (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). One can check the minimum IELTS score for MS in Canada from the table below.
| MS University |
Minimum IELTS score requirement |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto |
7 - 7.5 |
| The University of British Columbia |
6.5 - 7.5 |
| McGill University |
6.5 - 7.5 |
| McMaster University |
6.5 - 7 |
| University of Alberta |
6 - 7 |
Minimum IELTS Score for Engineering Universities in Canada
The average IELTS score for engineering colleges in Canada will be around 6.5 and above. One can check the minimum IELTS band score requirements for top engineering universities in Canada from the below mentioned table.
| B.E. / B.Tech University |
Minimum IELTS score requirement |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto |
6.5 & Above |
| The University of British Columbia |
6.5 & Above |
| McGill University |
6.5 & Above |
| McMaster University |
6.5 & Above |
| University of Alberta |
6.5 & Above |
Canada Student Visa IELTS Band Requirements
When applying for a Canadian student visa, one of the key requirements is demonstrating proficiency in English, which is typically assessed through the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). This IELTS score for Canada ensures that international students can effectively communicate and succeed in their academic programs.
Most universities in Canada 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. The IELTS band score for Canada may vary depending on the program, university you are applying for, or level of study. So, students are recommended to check the official website of the university you are applying for or even the Canadian immigration authority.
Q: What is the eligibility criteria for IELTS?
There is no specific eligibility criterion for taking the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam. It is open to individuals of all ages and educational backgrounds who wish to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone seeking immigration or work opportunities in English-speaking countries, you are eligible to take the IELTS. There are no prerequisites such as educational qualifications, age restrictions, or prior language learning experience. The IELTS is accessible to anyone who wants to showcase their English language proficiency. However, it is preferable that students above the age of 16 appear for the exam.
Q: Can a 10th pass apply for IELTS exam?
Yes, a candidate who is 10th pass can apply for the IELTS exam. There are no specific educational qualifications required to take the IELTS test, but candidates must be at least 16 years old.
Q: Can I qualify IELTS?
There are no strict IELTS eligblity criteria. So, any candidates with 16 plus years of age can apply for IELTS and with better preparation can easily qualify for the test.
Q: How many times can I appear for IELTS exam? In which month does this exam take place?
Actually, there is no limit to appear for IELTS exam. You can re-take it as many times you want. But experts say, you should not take the test more than once in a period of two months. Also, you have to pay the fee everytime you take the test, which can be very expensive also. But if you are okay with paying the fee infinite times you can take the test unlimited number of times. Also, it does not make any sense taking the test again and again. After a maximum of 3 attempts, you should know that your scores are not going to change. So, try hard and give your best the first attempt.
Q: How much percentage is required in 12th for IELTS?
IELTS IDP has not set any 12th score requirements for taking the IELTS. You can take the IELTS irrespective of the marks you scored in the 12th standard. So, one can attempt the IELTS exam without worrying about their class 12th score.
Q: How many attempts are possible in the IELTS exam for students looking to study abroad?
Students looking to study abroad can take the IELTS exam as many times as they wish. There is no specific limit on the number of attempts for the IELTS. However, it is important to note that frequent retesting without adequate preparation may not yield the desired results. Each attempt requires payment of the exam fee, and test dates are subject to availability. It is advisable for students to focus on improving their English language skills before attempting the exam again, rather than relying solely on multiple attempts. Preparation, practice, and understanding of the test format are key to achieving the desired scores for studying abroad.
Q: How much time is required for an offer letter by St. Clair College, Canada?
International students can apply for St. Clair College admission through the college official portal and submit the required application material before the equal consideration deadline. As application received after the deadline are considered on a first-come, first-serve basis. The admission decision on acceptance to the college can take anywhere between 2-6 weeks. However, there is no special mention about admission decision timeline, it is recommended to reach out to the college for further clarity.
Q: Can I get a scholarship in the University of Canada West as a freshman?
Yes, University Canada West (UCW) provides a variety of scholarships and awards to prospective freshman. These scholarships are often awarded based on academic performance, community involvement, leadership abilities, and other criteria. These scholarships are competitive, and the eligibility requirements and amounts may change year over year. The most current information on available scholarships and eligibility conditions can be found on UCW scholarship.
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio
- Universities in Canada174 Universities
- Universities in USA1037 Universities
- Universities in Australia122 Universities
- Universities in UK175 Universities
- Universities in Ireland32 Universities
- Universities in New Zealand70 Universities
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae