IELTS for Canada

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world's most popular English language test. IELTS was the first test to be recognised by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Immigration Quebec as proof of English language proficiency for its immigration and citizenship programs.

IELTS is the preferred route for the Student Direct Stream (SDS), an expedited study permit processing program for those who are applying to study in Canada at a post-secondary designated learning institution.

Recently, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced modifications to the English language test prerequisites for SDS applicants.

• Starting from the 10th of August 2023, you will only need an overall band score of 6.0 on the IELTS Academic test if you're applying for SDS.
• However, if you're applying with the IELTS Academic before the 10th of August 2023, you must achieve a score of 6.0 in each individual skill.
• Similarly, if you are applying for the IELTS General Training, both before and after the 10th of August 2023, you will need a score of 6.0 in each skill.

Read more: Apply to Canada SDS with IELTS Academic.

What is the Canadian language benchmark (CLB)?

In the context of immigration, the Canadian government employs the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) as a standardised scale to evaluate English proficiency. This scale is categorised into levels ranging from CLB 1 to CLB 12. By converting your International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores, they can be equated to specific CLB levels.

Additional Read: Why is IELTS important for Canada?

IELTS score required in top Canadian universities

The language prerequisites for admission to top Canadian universities can be quite stringent. Most universities require meeting specific criteria for both overall scores and individual sections of the IELTS test. For instance, reputable universities typically expect a total score of 6.5, with a minimum score of 6 in each section. By adequately preparing for the IELTS examination, you can attain these requirements.

List of minimum IELTS scores required for Canadian universities

Once you shortlist your target universities, you must check for specific IELTS scores required for each. Here is a list of the minimum IELTS requirements at some of the most popular Canadian institutions:

IELTS for Canada study permit

For students applying to Canadian universities, obtaining a study permit is crucial. Students must often demonstrate English language proficiency through the IELTS test as part of the visa application process. However, Canada has an easier visa application process specifically for students known as the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa.

The Student Direct Stream visa program allows students to apply for a study permit in Canada more quickly. To be eligible for SDS, students must meet certain criteria, including:

• Being enrolled in a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada
• Having a minimum cumulative IELTS score of 6 bands in all four language abilities (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking)
• Having enough financial support to cover their tuition, living expenses, and return travel
• Should pay 1-year tuition deposit before the study permit
• Have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAN$10,000 to support living cost for a year

Here are some additional details about the SDS visa program:

• The SDS visa program is available to students from certain countries, including India.
• Students who apply for an SDS visa must pay a processing fee of CAD 150.
• Students who are granted an SDS visa are eligible to work part-time on campus and full-time during breaks from their studies.
• If you are interested in studying in Canada, the SDS visa program is a great option for you. It can help you get your visa processed more quickly and start your studies sooner.

Read more: IELTS for Canada Study Visa

IELTS for immigration to Canada

IELTS holds the distinction of being the inaugural test acknowledged by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and Immigration Quebec as valid evidence of English language proficiency for various immigration programs, such as Express Entry (skilled Immigrants), Quebec-selected skilled workers, and the Provincial Nominee Program.

For Individuals considering applying for permanent residence or Canadian citizenship, there are several pathways available. Among these, the most prevalent is Express Entry, an online system managing applications from skilled workers seeking permanent residence through three economic immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class

Additionally, Canadian provinces and territories participate in the selection process from the same pool of applicants in Express Entry through their Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), enabling them to address their specific local labour market demands.

IELTS for Canada express entry

The Canadian government introduced Express Entry in January 2015 as an online immigration system. This program facilitates granting of permanent residency to skilled workers through a point-based system. These programs include the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

The selection process for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Canada is progressive. Candidates are evaluated based on their “Express Entry Points”, which are awarded considering various factors such as work experience, language proficiency, skills, and more.

These points are important in determining an applicant's likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) Visa. Typically, applications submitted through Express Entry are processed within a timeframe of 6 to 12 months.

For Canadian Express Entry, applicants must take the IELTS General Training. The minimum required score depends on the specific immigration program and the criteria established by the Canadian government. Generally, a higher IELTS score can increase an applicant’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, improving their chances of permanent residency.

The IELTS scores are an important component of the Express Entry profile. A higher score leads to more points, with the maximum awarded to those with a band score of 9 in each section. These scores are evaluated together with other factors, such as age, education, work experience, and adaptability, which are used to calculate the CRS score.

IELTS for Canada PR

If you plan on studying and working in Canada with the intention of obtaining permanent residency, you must have contemplated the process of achieving that goal.

To demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, it is essential to furnish evidence of your language proficiency in either English or French when applying for a visa.

For individuals aiming to prove their English language skills, the recommended test for Canadian immigration purposes is the IELTS General Training exam. This test serves as a preferred choice to showcase language proficiency for immigration to Canada.

In Canada, there are three distinct pathways to obtaining permanent residency (PR):

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class

To ensure a smooth application process, it is important to note that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) takes approximately 6 months to process applications. Therefore, ensuring that your IELTS test results remain valid throughout this entire duration is crucial.

Applying for permanent residency through the Express Entry system requires a minimum language proficiency of CLB 7 (Canadian Language Benchmark) or a minimum score of 6.0 for each section of the IELTS test.

Each program has its own specific language proficiency requirements. Your language skills will be evaluated in four subcategories: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The points you earn will be awarded based on the corresponding CLB level.

IELTS for Canada work visa

Individuals who want to work in Canada must take the IELTS General Training test. This exam follows a similar structure to the IELTS Academic test, encompassing four sections. While the Listening and Speaking sections of the test remain the same, the Writing and Reading sections slightly differ.

Scoring for the IELTS test ranges from 0-9, with 9 being the highest score indicating exceptional proficiency. To get permanent residency in Canada, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 6 in each of the test's four sections.

The minimum score required depends on the profession. For instance, lawyers intending to work in Canada must obtain a minimum score of 7 in every section of the IELTS exam. Whereas nurses must attain a score of 7 in the Speaking section and get an overall band score of 6.5.

Read more: IELTS for Working Abroad

IELTS Fees

The IELTS test fee in India depends on the type of test. Here is a table entailing detailed information on the IELTS test fees.

For more information: Fees for IELTS for Canada

Sample test for IELTS for Canada

IDP IELTS offers a number of free practice tests that can be used to help you prepare for the exam. These tests are a great way to get familiar with the format of the test and the types of questions that are asked. They can also help you identify areas where you need to improve.

The free practice tests are available online and can be taken anytime. You can choose to take the test on your computer or on paper. Each test consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

The Listening section tests your ability to understand spoken English. You will be given a recording to listen to and then asked a series of questions about it. The questions will test your understanding of the recording's main ideas, details, and vocabulary.

The Reading section tests your ability to understand written English. You will be given a text to read and then asked a series of questions about it. The questions will test your understanding of the text's main ideas, details, and vocabulary.

The Writing section tests your ability to write in English. You will be given a task to complete, such as an essay or a letter. You will be given a set of instructions and a word limit.

The Speaking section tests your ability to speak in English. You will be given a task to complete, such as a conversation or a presentation.

The free practice tests are a valuable resource for anyone who is preparing for the IELTS. They can help you identify areas where you need to improve and give you the practice you need to succeed on the exam.

To learn more about the practice tests, you can read our article: Practice Tests for IELTS

In case you still have any queries about the IELTS requirement in Canada or need any assistance with preparing for the test.