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Is It Possible to Study in Canada Without IELTS?
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The high standard of living, international students benefits, affordable tuition fees, and opportunities to create a successful career are some of the reasons why students choose Canada for study purposes over other countries. But you may be hesitating to apply for courses to study in Canada because of the fear of sitting for the IELTS test. So, is it possible to study in Canada without IELTS? Indeed, it is possible, as many colleges and universities accept students without IELTS. Let's explore those institutions through this article.
What is IELTS?
IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. Many universities and employers rely on this test score to determine the English Language Proficiency of potential candidates.
The significant goal of IELTS is to help you study, work and migrate to countries where English is considered the native language. Canada is one such country, with English and French as its official languages. Hence, studying at a reputed college or university in Canada may be challenging without IELTS test scores.
Is It Possible to Get a Canada Study Visa Without IELTS?
Indeed, you can get a Canada study visa without IELTS. Although the visa rejection rate has increased drastically after the Covid-19 outbreak, getting a study permit in Canada without the test is possible.
But to do so, you must apply to a school or university that requires an alternative English language assessment score. We hope that answers your question on whether you can get a Canada study visa without IELTS!
Can I Go to Canada with a Low IELTS Score? What Scores are Required for the Canada Student Visa?
As you know, some universities and colleges accept students without the IELTS test. But unfortunately, not all educational institutes will fit this bill.
Suppose you aspire to pursue an undergraduate course at a Canadian University. In that case, all universities will expect you to get a minimum of 5.5 band in each of the four segments of the test to enroll in an undergraduate program.
However, it will be easier for you to get a student visa if you score a minimum of 6.0 in each IELTS segment. Hence, if you wonder, "can I study in Canada with 6 bands" there you have the answer.
Some Affordable Canadian Universities to Apply to that Don't Require IELTS
Canada is home to top-ranked universities, and below, we have shared a list of some of the best universities that accept international students without IELTS. Let’s check them out for the answer to the question, “is it possible to study in Canada without IELTS?”.
1. The University of Saskatchewan
Being one of the top research-intensive medical and doctoral universities in Canada, the University of Saskatchewan offers undergraduate and graduate programs in more than 150 fields of study.
But one of the best facts about this institution is that it accepts international students without IELTS. Yes, you can apply for courses this university provides without sitting for the IELTS test.
However, this educational institute will require you to prove your English language skill in alternate ways, by submitting the following documents.
Certificates of Higher Secondary Education and Higher Education Studies
Achieving proficiency in standardized tests such as TOEFL, iBT, CanTEST, MELAB, PTE Academic, CAE, Duolingo English Test, and CAEL
Successful completion of an English Language Proficiency Program approved by the USask (University of Saskatchewan) and the University of Regina
A Certificate of Education in A/AS/AICE level English
Other Qualifications include:
B, A2, or A1 level English According to International Baccalaureate (IB)
GCSE/IGCSE/GCE O- level English
2. University of Winnipeg
Located in Manitoba's largest city, the University of Winnipeg is a student-focused institution. It has a reputation for academic excellence, small class sizes, campus diversity, and world-class teaching methods.
This University offers a wide array of study courses taught by caring and experienced professors. Suppose you want to pursue a degree in science, arts, business, economics, kinesiology, or any other major. In that case, the University of Winnipeg can help you do so without having you seated for the IELTS exam.
Nevertheless, this University can ask for alternative test certificates, which are as follows:
Cambridge Assessment English: C1 or C2
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment
Pearson Test of English
CanTest
Duolingo English Test
Academic English Program for University and College Entrance
English Language Program at the University of Winnipeg, and more.
3. Brandon University
Another educational institution located in Manitoba that offers top-notch education is Brandon University. It offers a myriad of degree programs in education, health care, music, science, arts, and more at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Luckily, Brandon University doesn't require students to submit their IELTS scores to get enrolled in the courses. But it may ask for the following documents to determine students' English Language Proficiency level.
Cambridge Assessment English: C1 or C2
PTE
TOEFL iBT
EAP
CAEL CE
CAEL
4. Carleton University
Carleton University is Canada's dynamic research and teaching institute, backed by highly-qualified professors who believe in experiential learning.
The University offers students more than 200 vital study programs to get admitted to. And fortunately, this educational institute also accepts international students without IELTS.
Like the universities mentioned earlier in this content, Carleton University needs students to submit alternative documents to IELTS to prove their English Language Proficiency. Here are the certificates this University may ask for:
TOEFL
PTE
CAEL
A certificate of completion of a three-year course at a high school or college in Canada
5. Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
The Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, aka Memorial University or MUN, is one of the largest public universities in Atlantic Canada.
Like Carleton University, this one also provides more than 200 courses in various fields of studies ranging from computer science, engineering, economics, and so on, to the students.
Now, let's discuss the part you might be most interested in regarding this University: it allows you to apply for courses without IELTS. You can enroll in this University's programs by completing an E-protected Interview or English test.
You can also submit the following certificates to prove your English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL
CAEL
PTE
MET (Michigan English Test)
CanTest
Duolingo English Test
6. Cambrian College
Offering hands-on experience, unique placement, and small class sizes, Cambrian College holds pride in delivering strategy-based teaching through its wide array of compelling courses.
Not only that, but this leading college is listed as the cheapest college in Canada, and it accepts international students without IELTS.
But the college will require students to exhibit certificates proving their English Language Proficiency. The documents this college may inspect are listed below:
EAPP (English for Academic Purposes Program)
PTE
TOEFL
Cambridge Assessment English: C1 or C2
CAEL, etc.
7. Brock University
Brock University is a well-renowned public university in Canada. It offers numerous courses emphasizing engagement in research, scholarship, and professional development.
With the help of spellbinding study courses, this educational institute makes students job ready and helps them get a better future. You can consider Brock University if you dream of studying at a public university without IELTS.
However, like the other universities on this list, you must provide documents confirming your English Language Proficiency while applying for any study program. Here is the list of documents you may need to submit.
TOEFL
CAEL
CAE
CPE
PTE
IELP, etc.
8. University of Regina
Situated in the capital city of Saskatchewan, the University of Regina is a public research university offering an inclusive and diverse learning environment, a welcoming campus, and out-of-the-world academic programs.
This educational institute is a pleasant fit for students who want to go to Canada on a study permit without studying IELTS. The University of Regina gives students high-class facilities with extraordinary and impactful research. So, what else do you need while searching for a university in Canada to pursue your degree?
However, although this university won't ask you to submit your IELTS score with a certificate, it will require you to provide other papers, such as:
CanTest
Duolingo Test
TOEFL iBT
MELAB
UofR ESL
CAEL
PTE and more
9. University of the Manitoba
Founded in 1877, the University of Manitoba is the first university in western Canada, and provides flexible and extended educational programs and courses to its students.
If you want to challenge yourself and expand your horizons with the help of superior teaching, the University of Manitoba has you covered. It has more than 30,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students, and you can be one of them by pursuing your degree without needing IELTS test scores.
You probably know what to expect by now - yes, the University will check alternative scores or test results to determine your English Language Proficiency, such as:
TOEFL iBT
PET
CAEL
IAEP (Intensive Academic English Program)
Cambridge Assessment English: C1 or C2
10. Concordia University
Concordia University is situated in the vibrant city of Montreal, Quebec, and is one of the most outstanding public universities in the country, providing diverse and innovative courses.
Like the other universities listed above, it also accepts international students without IELTS but on conditions. Below, we have shared what this University may ask for while applying for a study program.
TOEFL
Duolingo Test
PTE
Certificate from ELI or ELS, and more.
Documents You Need to Submit for the Canada Study Permit
Below we have shared what kinds of documents you will need to get a Canada study permit. Let's get started.
English Language Proof
You need to provide an alternative English Language test score for IELTS. You can submit TOEFL, CAEL, Duolingo test, PTE, CPE, CAE, and more.
Individuality Proof
You must have a valid Passport and two passport-size photographs containing your name and date of birth written on the back of each photo.
Acceptance Confirmation
You must exhibit proof of obtaining admission to a specific college or university that accepts international students without IELTS.
Proof of Fund
You must provide documents clarifying you have the financial support to bear your educational expenses and living costs while applying for a study permit in Canada.
So, these are some mandatory documents you need to submit for a study permit. But you may need other additional documents, and to get more detailed information on this fact, you may contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Country Can I Go to Without IELTS?
Alongside Canada, you can choose universities or colleges in various countries to study without IELTS. You can select educational institutions from the US, UK, France, Sweden, China, Italy, Japan, and the list goes on.
Can We Buy IELTS Certificate?
You can't buy an IELTS certificate but can obtain it by sitting for the test. So, if you find anyone claiming to sell you an IELTS certificate, you need to understand that the person is trying to scam you.
Nobody can purchase an IELTS certificate. If someone tries to buy one, they will be wasting their money by buying scams and risking their future opportunities.
Can I Get a Canada Student Visa Without Interview?
Usually, students can avoid facing interviews for study permits in Canada. However, the visa officer may require you to attend an interview for investigation purposes if needed.
How Much Money Do I Need to Study in Canada?
Compared to many countries, the study cost in Canada is reasonable. Based on courses, you will pay between CAD 20,000 and 34,000 to cover your tuition.
The data mentioned above is an average cost, which can slightly or significantly vary according to the institution and program you want to enroll in.
What is the Age Limit for Canada Student Visa?
You can study in Canada at any age, and your age won't ever be a barrier to pursuing a degree program in Canada. But your documents must be authentic and complete to get a study permit.
Your documents should elucidate the purpose of your entrance into Canada and declare that you will return home after completing your study program. You must also be able to prove that you’re in sound health, have a clean police record, are proficient in English, and have the financial resources to fund your studies abroad.
How Many Months Does the Canada Study Visa Take?
It entirely depends on where you reside. Usually, the visa process takes around seven to eight weeks, depending on the country from where you apply for the student visa.
But we suggest you apply for a study permit as soon as you get a letter of acceptance from your preferred Canadian college or university. FYI, getting a Canada study visa can take up to three months or even more.
Who Can Sponsor Me To Study In Canada?
Your close relatives, such as parents, grandparents, spouse, child, sibling, or partner, can sponsor you to study in Canada. Alongside them, your other relatives who are citizens of Canada can sponsor you.
How Long Can I Stay in Canada as a Student?
A Canadian student visa will be valid for the length of the study program you will enroll in. Furthermore, your student visa will remain valid for an additional 90 days to allow you to prepare for leaving this beautiful country or extending your study visa.
How Much Can I Earn in Canada as a Student?
On average, a student in Canada can earn CAD 30,000 to 37,446 per year or up to CAD 20 per hour by working part-time. If you ponder, "how many hours can a student work in Canada?" - the simple answer to this question is 20 hours per week.
Can I Study in Canada from Bangladesh without IELTS?
With the appropriate proof of English proficiency, based on the university's requirements, you don't necessarily need the IELTS to qualify for a Canadian higher education. Many Bangladeshi students are already studying in Canada without IELTS!
Our Concluding Thoughts
Now that you have the answer to the question, "is it possible to study in Canada without IELTS?". Yes, it's possible, and it's the right time for you to prepare for student life there. Here we have some other valuable articles titled study in Canada, Universities in Canada, Canada intakes that may help you plan for your studies abroad. Wish you the best of luck.
