Are you searching for universities in Canada without IELTS or you're seeking to gain admission in Canada without IELTS? Then you need to read this article to learn about universities in Canada without IELTS for international students you can apply to.
If you are planning on studying in Canada, then it is assumed that you most certainly have passed the IELTS exams. However, if you didn't sit for or pass the IELTS exam, and you are worried if it is possible to study in Canada without IELTS, do not worry as some of the universities in Canada would still accept your application without IELTS.
- Many students find it difficult to qualify for language proficiency tests because they are non-native English speakers, and these tests can be expensive and repeating them multiple times can be really frustrating. Although most English-speaking Canadian institutions need IELTS scores for admission into their academic programs, it is possible to get admitted to some colleges in Canada without IELTS scores.
Read on to find out how you can study in Canada without IELTS 2026.
Article Guide:
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What is the IELTS test?
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How to get admission to universities that do not require IELTS in Canada
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Alternative English Proficiency Tests
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20 universities in Canada without IELTS 2026
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Cambrian College
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University of Saskatchewan
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Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
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University of Winnipeg
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University of Regina
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Brock University
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Okanagan College
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Concordia University
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Seneca College
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Carleton University
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University of Manitoba
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University of Guelph
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Brandon University
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Brock University
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Mcgill University
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University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
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University of Ottawa
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Simon Fraser University (SFU)
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Algoma University
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University of Waterloo
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EXTRA TIP: Study visa in Canada without IELTS
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Conclusion
What is the IELTS Test?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally standardized language assessment exam used by universities to assess the language skills of potential international students. This test is divided into four sections; reading, writing, listening and speaking.
Upon completion of this test, students will obtain an overall score for all of their fundamental English language abilities. Exams like this are used to assess your English language abilities in English-speaking nations like Canada.
How to Get Admission to Universities that do not Require IELTS in Canada
There are some colleges in Canada offering admission without IELTS. These universities accept other test scores apart from running their own English learning programs.
The following are ways by which you can get admission into schools in Canada without IELTS:
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By submitting the proof of English medium education for at least 5 years
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By submitting the proof that you belong to an English speaking country
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By registering in the English language course offered by a Canadian university
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By submitting the scores of alternative English proficiency tests
Alternative English Proficiency Tests
If you would like to take an English course in Canada without IELTS when looking for schools without IELTS in Canada, other English proficiency tests are accepted by Canadian universities.
The following are alternatives to IELTS you can take:
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Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
TOEFL checks how well students understand and use English in an academic environment. Most Canadian Universities use it to assess reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
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Pearson Tests of English (PTE)
PTE is a computer-based English test with fast results. It measures all four language skills and is accepted by many institutions worldwide.
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Duolingo
Duolingo is an online English test taken from home. It is affordable, short, and accepted by many universities as proof of English ability.
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Canadian Academic English Language Assessment – CAEL, CAEL-CE, CAEL online
CAEL measures English skills needed for studying in Canada. It focuses on real academic tasks like listening to lectures and writing essays.
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Cambridge Assessment English (C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency)
These exams show advanced English skills. C1 proves strong academic English, while C2 shows near-native level proficiency.
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CanTest by University of Ottawa
CanTest evaluates English skills for academic study in Canada. It tests reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
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Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)
CELPIP measures practical English skills for study, work, and immigration. It is widely used in Canada.
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Academic English Program for University and College Entry (AEPUCE)
AEPUCE is a pathway program that helps students improve academic English. Completing it can meet English requirements for university or college entry.
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MELAB
The Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) is another option. It’s designed for advanced English learners and assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills.
Universities in Canada without IELTS 2026
In this article section, you will find schools in Canada for international students without IELTS. Some of which are cheap colleges in Canada for international students without IELTS, schools offering short courses in Canada for international students 2026 without IELTS, Canada universities for masters without IELTS, schools for post graduate diploma in Canada without IELTS, and also universities in Canada without IELTS and application fee.
Here are the list of Universities that do not require IELTS in Canada:
1. Cambrian College
Cambrian College has been the leading post-secondary institution in Northern Ontario, and is one of the institutions where you can get short courses in Canada for international students 2025 without IELTS.
Being among the cheapest university in Canada without IELTS, this college has a vibrant community of more than 11,000 learners, with over 4100 students in 80 full-time programs, and over 7000 students in almost 900 part-time courses and programs.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
Cambrian College accepts a bunch of other English proficiency tests apart from IELTS like TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo. You can also enroll in the English for Academic Purposes Program (EAPP) which takes between 4 - 10 months depending on the level of your expertise. On completion of the EAPP, you will be accepted into the Diploma or certificate programs.
2. University of Saskatchewan
International students can apply to University of Saskatchewan without IELTS, as this public university welcomes students from all over the world every year.
This institution offer programs in over 150 fields of study, and is one of the schools where you can apply for undergraduate program or masters in Canada without IELTS.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
You can prove your English language skills by submitting the following documents:
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Certificates of Higher Secondary education and higher education studies
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Completion of standardized tests like TOEFL iBT, CanTEST, CAEL, MELAB, PTE Academic, CAE and Duolingo English Test
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Completion of an approved English Language Proficiency (ELP) program by University of Saskatchewan Language Centre and University of Regina
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General Certificate of Education of A/AS/AICE Level English
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Completion of one of the following qualifications:
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Advanced Placement (AP) English
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International Baccalaureate (IB) English A1 or A2 Higher Level
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International Baccalaureate (IB) English B Higher Level
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GCSE/IGCSE/GCE O-Level English, English Language, or English as a Second
3. Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
This is one of the largest colleges in Canada for international students without IELTS that offers more than 300 courses.
With a large community of 18,000 plus scholars from different parts of the world, this university offers a vast range of courses in different fields like economics, computer science, international business, engineering, and is also a great place to get a PhD in Canada without IELTS.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
This school accepts a host of other tests apart from IELTS like TOEFL and CAEL. Applicants who do not meet the minimum scores in the proficiency tests can enroll in an Intensive English Program at the university's St. John's or Grenfell campuses. Candidates who have successfully completed an e-proctored English test or an interview will also be accepted.
4. University of Winnipeg
You can apply to study at the University of Winnipeg without IELTS, as this school does not specifically require the IELTS score. Thus, it is a place to get an MBA in Canada without IELTS.
Although it is compulsory to produce proof of your proficiency in the English language, Uni of Winnipeg is one of the universities in Canada that do not require IELTS, accepting a host of other English proficiency tests apart from IELTS.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
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Duolingo English Test
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Cambridge Assessment English: C1 Advanced
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Cambridge Assessment English: C2 Proficiency
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CanTest
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Canadian Academic English Language Assessment
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Pearson Test of English (Academic)
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Academic English Program for University and College Entrance
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English Language Program at The University of Winnipeg
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English Language Program - Part-time Evening Program at The University of Winnipeg
5. University of Regina
This university which is located in the capital city of Saskatchewan, is an institution international students can apply to study in Canada without IELTS 2025.
University of Regina which is a great fit for Canada university admission without IELTS, is known for its welcoming campus, diverse and inclusive learning environment, exceptional academic programs, high-impact research, and world-class facilities.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
Apart from IELTS, Regina accepts the scores of many different tests like;
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CAEL
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TOEFL iBT
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PTE
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CanTEST
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MELAB
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TOEFL
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UofR ESL
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Duolingo
6. Brock University
Brock University, a prominent public university in Canada, happens to be part of the list of universities in Canada without IELTS.
If you are searching for schools in Canada that does not require IELTS, you should consider applying to Brock, a place where you can also get an MSc in Canada without IELTS.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
Students who do not want to take the IELTS test can enroll in their Intensive English Language Program (IELP). This university also accepts the scores of CAEL Assessment, CAE (A1 Advanced), CPE (C2 Proficiency), Duolingo, TOEFL, and PTE.
7. Okanagan College
Okanagan College which is a community of learning, rich with cultural diversity and academic support, is also one of the without IELTS study in Canada colleges list where you should consider applying to.
This school where you can find courses in Canada without IELTS, places great emphasis on impacting students with knowledge, evidenced with smaller class sizes, industry-experienced professors, hands-on learning in addition to co-op, field and practicum opportunities.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
Language requirements are program-specific and the alternative for IELTS is Duolingo scores.
8. Concordia University
We’re a next-generation university, continually reimagining the future of higher education. Located in the vibrant and multicultural city of Montreal, Concordia University is one of Canada schools without IELTS.
This North American top-ranked university, which is one of the universities in Canada for masters without IELTS, annually registers some 51,000 students through its innovative approach to experiential learning and cross-functional research.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
You will need to provide any of the following alternatives;
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TOEFL, DET, CAEL, CAE, CPE, PTE
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You must provide proof that you have completed at least four years of study with English as the medium of instruction at a secondary or post-secondary institution.
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International Baccalaureate in English Literature with specified levels.
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Intensive English Language Program (IELP) offered by the university on conditional admission
9. Seneca College
With more than 160 programs and 500 career options, Seneca College which is one of the schools that do not require IELTS in Canada, has many ways for you to pursue your goals.
Whether you are preparing for a career or further education, you can find courses without IELTS in Canada through Seneca College.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
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CAEL CE, Cambridge English Exams, Duolingo, PTE Academic, TOEFL
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You must complete an intensive English language program from an institute like English Language Institute, Or
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You must have completed two years of study at an English-language academic institution
10. Carleton University
Carleton University which is one of the universities in Canada for international students without IELTS, is a dynamic research and teaching institution.
You can also pursue a master degree in Canada without IELTS through this institution, as Carleton have exciting programs and a strong community of staff, faculty and students.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
- CAEL, TOEFL, PTE
- You must provide proof that you have completed three years (full-time) of study at a high school or university in Canada, the US, the UK, or any other country with English as the primary language as that of the institution.
- Note: There are many courses for which the admission process includes ESL requirements along with English proficiency scores
11. University of Manitoba
University of Manitoba which is Manitoba's only research-intensive university, is one of the colleges in Manitoba without IELTS.
Having more than 31,000 undergraduate and graduate students, you can apply for a master’s program in Canada without IELTS through this school.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
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IAEP (Intensive Academic English Program) - Minimum score required: Pass Level 5/AEPUCE (Academic English Program for University and College Entrance)
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CAEL (Canadian Academic English Assessment) - Online or Test Centre. Minimum score required: 60
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TOEFL iBT or TOEFL iBT Paper Edition or TOEFL iBT Home Edition (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
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CanTEST (Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees)
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Cambridge Assessment English: C1 Advanced
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Cambridge Assessment English: C2 Proficiency
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Pearson Test of English
12. University of Guelph
University of Guelph which is one of the schools without IELTS in Canada, is known for excellence in arts and sciences.
This Canada University without IELTS 2025 is also known for its commitment to developing exceptional thinkers and engaged citizens.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
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Canadian Academic English Language Test (CAEL)
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Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A)
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Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and (TOEFL Special Home Edition (iBT)). A minimum score of 21 must be achieved in each of the four categories (listening, speaking, reading, writing)
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University of Guelph English Language Certificate
13. Brandon University
Brandon University which is a university in Canada that does not require IELTS, offers a wide range of degree programs in Arts, Education, Music, Health Studies and Science, at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
It also happens to be amongst top schools in Canada for masters without IELTS.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
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C1 Advanced (The Cambridge English Advanced exam)
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C2 Proficiency (The Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English)
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CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment)
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CAEL CE (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment)
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EAP (English for Academic Purposes at Brandon University)
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PTEA (Pearson Test of English Academic)
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TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
14. Brock University
Brock University is a respected public university in Ontario, Canada, known for its welcoming environment for international students and flexible English language requirements, including study pathways that may not require IELTS. Brock University is a respected public university in Ontario, Canada, known for its welcoming environment for international students and flexible English language requirements, including study pathways that may not require IELTS.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
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CAEL: Minimum score 60
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MELAB: Minimum score of 85
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TOEFL iBT: Minimum score 88, with no less than 21 in writing and speaking and 20 in reading and listening
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Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115
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English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs: Completion of the Intensive English Language Program (IELP)
15. Mcgill University
McGill University is one of Canada’s top-ranked and most respected universities, with a strong global reputation for academic excellence and research. There are several English exams students can write aside from the IELTS. Located in Montreal, Quebec, it attracts students from all over the world. Students get to enjoy one of the most affordable and student-friendly cities in Canada, with a rich culture, career opportunities, and a vibrant campus life.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
TOEFL IBT (Internet-Based Test): 86 overall, no less than 20 in each of the four component scores.
McGill Certificate of Proficiency in English or McGill Certificate of Proficiency – English for Professional Communication.
When proof of proficiency is not required
Normally, if you meet any one of the following conditions, you are not required to submit proof of proficiency in English:
- Has obtained (or is about to obtain) an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized institution in Canada or the United States of America (anglophone or francophone)
- Has obtained (or is about to obtain) an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized foreign institution where English is the language of instruction
- Has lived and attended university, or been employed, for at least four consecutive years, in a country where English is the acknowledged primary language.
Please note that you must send documentation proving you meet one of the conditions directly to your department, who will then waive the English proficiency requirement on your application.
16. University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is a public university located in Charlottetown. UPEI welcomes students from many countries and offers flexible English language requirements, making it a good option for international students who may not need IELTS, depending on their academic background. The university provides undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as business, computer science, health sciences, engineering, education, arts, and sciences.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
- TOEFL Paper-based test
- TOEFL Internet-based test
- CAEL (including CAEL Online)
- PTE
- Cambridge B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
- GTECCBT
- CELBAN for Nursing only
- Duolingo
- Oxford Digital ELLT
17. University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is one of Canada’s largest bilingual universities, offering programs in both English and French. Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, the university gives students access to government institutions, international organizations, and major industries. The University of Ottawa is a popular choice for international students and, in some cases, accepts alternatives to IELTS depending on a student’s previous education.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
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TOEFL internet-based (IBT), Special at Home Edition and TOEFL Essentials test results.
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Duolingo English Test
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The University of Ottawa also accepts the LanguageCertnorth_eastexternal link Academic test, the Michigan English Test, the Pearson Test of English (PTE), the Cambridge C1 Advanced exam (CAE) and the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test.
18. Simon Fraser University (SFU)
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is one of Canada’s top public research universities. It is located in British Columbia, with campuses in Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver. SFU welcomes a large number of international students and, in some cases, allows alternatives to IELTS based on prior education in English. SFU is especially recognized for its co-op education program, which allows students to gain paid work experience while studying.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
Cambridge English Qualifications any one of:
- B2 First
- C1 Advanced
- C2 Proficiency
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
GCSE O-Level English (or GCSE English Language B)
Completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program including English A (HL/SL) or English Literature and Performance (SL)
19. Algoma University
Algoma University is a public university in Ontario, Canada, known for its small class sizes and supportive learning environment. It has campuses in Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, and Timmins, making it a good option for students who prefer a calm and affordable place to study. The university welcomes international students and accepts alternatives to IELTS based on previous education completed in English.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- CAEL (paper-based, computer edition, or online): 60
- Cambridge English Qualifications
- Overall 176, with no band below 169
- Duolingo English Test (DET) –
- Overall 110 (including no individual band below 95)
- TOEFL: 83 (Computer or Home Edition)
- TOEFL applicants are required to submit their official result on the ETS Portal. The Algoma University institution code is 0820.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic & PTE Academic Online): 60
Requirements for All Other Undergraduate and Graduate Certificate Programs
- CAEL (paper-based, computer edition, or online): 60
- Cambridge English Qualifications
- Overall 176, with no band below 169
- Duolingo English Test (DET) –
- Overall 110 (including no individual band below 90)
- TOEFL: 550 (paper-based) or 79 (Computer or Home Editio)
- TOEFL applicants are required to submit their official result on the ETS Portal. The Algoma University institution code is 0820.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic & PTE Academic Online): 60
- ENG4U (OSSD) or ENGL12 (BC Curriculum): 3 years of full-time studies with a minimum grade of 70%
- College Transfer:
- 3 years of full-time studies in a recognized post-secondary institution in Canada or the USA
- Successful completion of a two or three-year diploma from a recognized Ontario College of Arts and Technology (a minimum of four semesters is required)
- 3 semesters of full-time studies (i.e., a minimum of 12 credits each semester) with a cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Internationally Recognized Curricula
- Students completing the International Baccalaureate, Cambridge or Pearson may be granted a waiver, provided they meet minimum academic results in their prescribed English courses.
- Completion of an English Language Pathway program
- To bypass the English Language Test requirement needed for admission to Algoma U, students may complete an English Language program with one of our many spectacular English Language Pathway partners.
20. University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo is one of Canada’s top research universities and is best known for its world-class programs in engineering, computer science, mathematics, and technology-related fields. The university also accepts several English proficiency options for students who do not want to take the IELTS exam.
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
- Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition – Test of English as a Foreign Language. TOEFL MyBest Scores and TOEFL Essentials will not be used to meet our English language requirements.
- PTE Academic (including PTE Academic Online) – Pearson Test of English
- Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)
- Duolingo English test
- English for Academic Success (EFAS) – offered by Waterloo's English Language Institute
Alternatives for IELTS Scores:
EXTRA TIP: Study Visa in Canada without IELTS
While looking out for no IELTS required universities in Canada, you might also be wondering if you can get Canada student visa without IELTS. The answer is yes!
In respect to Canada’s new visa regulations, there will be no hurdle in the student visa even if you do not possess IELTS scores. All that is needed to be done as an international student is to prove your admission at a university in Canada to be eligible for a study visa.
Therefore, students who are applying for visas in Canada without IELTS scores need to provide documents to prove that their university does not require IELTS score. These regulations were made by the Canadian government to support the genuine interest of international students willing to pursue their studies in Canada.
Conclusion
Hopefully, we have been helpful by providing you with a list of schools in Canada without IELTS, and most of these schools are cheap universities in Canada for international students without IELTS. You can scroll back up to visit each school to start your application.
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