Options for English language tests for Students in Canada
Many people who desire to study in Canada are currently getting ready for the upcoming fall semester and submitting their applications to Canadian institutions and colleges.
There are distinct admissions procedures for each Designated Learning Institute (DLI). Universities, colleges, and other educational institutions that accept overseas students are considered DLIs.
Applications must satisfy specific standards and include a variety of supporting documentation, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of professional experience, etc. The criterion that you have the necessary degree of language competence is another crucial one. You, the candidate, are required to take a language competency exam for this.
The DLIs for which you are applying must be consulted on the appropriate language exam to take.
Information about the language exams that would-be students at Canadian DLIs must take is provided below.
Do I take a language exam to study in Canada?
Individual universities and colleges have their own requirements for proving English proficiency in order to study in Canada, but institutions follow a common set of benchmarks to distinguish prospective students who must provide evidence of their English proficiency (through an approved test, as outlined below) from those who do not.
Consider, for instance, the entry requirements for undergraduate programs at the University of British Columbia (UBC), one of the largest universities in Canada and one of the most sought-after by international students. There are nine methods to demonstrate your English proficiency without taking a test at UBC.
Before enrolling at UBC, you must have completed at least four years of full-time, recognized education in English in Canada.
Minimum of four consecutive years of full-time English education in a non-Canadian country where English is the dominant language. These four years must promptly precede enrollment at UBC.
Attain a score of at least 70% on the final exam portion of the provincial examination for English Language Arts 30-1, BC English 12, or equivalents in Alberta.
Obtain a final grade of 4 or higher in AP English Language & Composition or AP Literature & Composition, or a final grade of 5 or higher in International Baccalaureate English A (higher-level or standard-level).
Attain the level of proficiency that one of the English language proficiency tests that evaluates listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills indicates.
Complete six credits of first-year English studies at an accredited college or university in an English-speaking country.
Graduate from a recognized degree program at an accredited university in an English-speaking country where English is the primary language of instruction.
Obtain a score of at least 70% on the final exam portion of the provincial examination for English Language Arts 30-1, BC English 12, or equivalents in Alberta or British Columbia. These four years must promptly precede enrollment at UBC. You must submit a transcript to the undergraduate admissions office as soon as possible.
Earn a UBC Certificate in English Language, or CEL, by completing Level 600 of the English for Academic Purposes program at the UBC English Language Institute on the Vancouver campus.
You may also request a waiver for the English Language Admission Standard if you are fully proficient in English but do not satisfy any of the nine options listed above.
This is merely one example of the admissions policy at a prominent Canadian university regarding English language proficiency. We have also included identical policy directives for some of Canada’s most prestigious universities with international students.
Language tests to study in Canada
Prospective students in Canada who must take a test should be aware that different institutions may approve different tests, similar to how different Canadian universities and colleges have slightly different policies regarding who may demonstrate English proficiency without taking a test.
However, the same main group of tests is generally accepted as evidence of English language proficiency for Students in Canada. Let’s examine these tests and the scores you may need to demonstrate to a Canadian university or college that you have the required level of English to study there.
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) for Students in Canada
Paragon Testing Enterprises manages the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) exam. More than 180 Canadian colleges and institutions accept this test, including 82% of English-speaking colleges and all English-speaking universities. In India, the Philippines, the UAE, and the majority of Canada, CAEL is anticipated to be available once more by early June.
In eight business days, the test’s findings will be made available.
Cambridge English Language Assessment for Students in Canada
More than 200 Canadian schools, including almost all public institutions, have given their approval to the C1 Advanced and C2 English proficiency examinations administered by Cambridge Assessment.
Results of computer-based tests can be obtained in 2-3 weeks, while those of paper-based examinations can take 4-6 weeks (both must be taken at a Cambridge research facility).
The majority of the time, these tests are taken after the students have finished their English classes. As a result, examinations are more thorough in preparing students to apply their English language abilities effectively in contexts like higher education. The certifications for C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency are valid for life.
Cambridge is reopening its global exam centres, and it advises students to visit their local test centres for the most recent information.
Test Duolingo English for students in Canada.
There are 140 post-secondary schools in Canada that accept the Duolingo English test. It just takes one hour to complete, and the results are ready in two days. The exam is taken online.
Academic IELTS for Students in Canada
The British Council, Cambridge Assessment English, and IDP Education are the three partners who oversee the IELTS Academic Test.
400 Canadian academic institutions and colleges accept this exam. Although it is typically administered in more than 140 countries, it is now available in more than 30 of them.
Results for tests administered on paper can be obtained after 13 days, and for tests administered on computers in 5-7 days.
The PTE, or Pearson Test of English
90% of Canadian colleges and institutions accept the Pearson Test of English (PTE). PTE is typically accessible in more than 50 nations and is now accessible in more than 10 nations, including India.
In most cases, test results are available in two days.
TOEFL for students in Canada
All of the institutions, including more than 400 Canadian colleges and universities, take the TOEFL into account. Results will be available in six days.
Other choices
There are additional choices for students in Canada. For instance, certain schools, including the University of Toronto and McGill University, themselves give evaluations.
Be sure the DLIs you are applying to will accept the results before you sign up for an English language test.
Immigration, IELTS General, and CELPIP
Many international students who graduate with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) later apply for Canadian permanent residence status. Before filing your Canadian immigration application, you must pass a second language test. The IRCC has accepted the IELTS General and the CELPIP as acceptable English language tests.
English language competence exams are a vital component of getting into Canadian institutions and universities. You must choose an exam that is acceptable by the colleges you intend to attend.
