What IELTS score do I need to study in Canada?

IELTS requirements vary by institution and programme. Here is a comprehensive overview:

Universities — Undergraduate:
- Most universities: IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
- Top universities (Toronto, UBC, McGill): 6.5 overall, often 6.0 minimum per band

Universities — Graduate (Masters/PhD):
- Typical: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall
- Some programmes (especially in professional fields like business or education): 7.0 with no band below 6.5

Colleges (Polytechnics/Community Colleges):
- Certificate and diploma programmes: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall
- Some programmes accept 5.5 with conditional language training

Alternative tests accepted:
- TOEFL iBT: 80–100 depending on programme
- PTE Academic: 58–65
- Duolingo: 100–120
- CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Test): popular in Canada, accepted at many institutions

Pathway programmes: If you score below entry requirements, many Canadian institutions offer English for Academic Purposes (EAP) or Intensive English programmes that lead to conditional admission.

PGWP language requirement (new from 2024):
CLB/NCLC 7 in English or French — approximately IELTS 6.0 — is required to be eligible for a PGWP. Ensure you meet this before completing your programme.

For Express Entry:
CLB 9 (IELTS 7.0–8.0 depending on skill area) attracts maximum language points. Investing in achieving CLB 9 is highly recommended if you plan to use Express Entry for PR.