Top Canadian Universities to Study Without IELTS in 2024

As an aspiring student, you no longer need to provide IELTS scores to get admission to Canadian universities in 2024. Wondering how? Some Canadian universities accept English Language Proficiency tests other than IELTS.

Most students find IELTS difficult because of its lengthy sessions, rigid syllabus, and time-consuming nature. They need more time and practice to familiarize themselves with academic English.

More than 20 Canadian Universities are now accepting alternative English tests like CAEL, CELPIP, TOEFL, and PTE, making students from non-English countries a bit more relaxed. So, international students who wish to migrate to Canada have a much easier option for proving their English proficiency with these alternative test scores.
In this article, we will be discussing the popular universities/ colleges in Canada where you can study without IELTS:

Top Canadian Universities

1. McGill University
2. University of Guelph
3. Carleton University
4. University of Regina
5. Concordia University
6. University of Saskatchewan
7. Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
8. Brock University
9. University of Winnipeg
10. Seneca College
11. Okanagan College
12. Cambrian College
13. Algoma University
14. Brandon University
15. University of Prince Edward Island

Let us delve into the details of some of the universities mentioned above:

1. McGill University

As an international student without a degree, you must prove your proficiency in English to study at McGill University. They should aim for a TOEFL iBT score of 100, with at least 20 in each section. McGill's code for TOEFL is 0935. Always remember to take the test at authorized centers only for admission purposes.

2. University of Guelph

Applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through various tests such as the ELCP, Cambridge English tests, CAEL, Duolingo, PTE, or TOEFL. Following are the scores that you need to meet:

• Advanced Level of the English Language Certificate Program (ELCP) at levels 9 and 10
• Cambridge English qualifications at C1 and C2 levels (at least 176 with no band less than 169)
• CAEL with a minimum score of 70
• Duolingo with a minimum score of 110
• PTE with a minimum score of 60
• TOEFL: Internet-based - minimum 89, Computer-based - minimum 250, Paper-based - minimum 60.

3. University of Winnipeg

At the University of Winnipeg, you do need to prove your English proficiency. You can submit various English language proficiency certificates, including Duolingo. Before beginning your program, you may attend an English Language Program (ELP) by the university. You may visit the university's website to understand the requirements for the language program. You may bypass the IELTS test and its complications.

4. Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador

You must meet any one of the following requirements to prove your language proficiency:

• Cambridge Assessment English: minimum score of 176
• CAEL: minimum score of 50-60
• CanTEST- Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees: minimum score of 4.5
• Duolingo: minimum score of 115
• MET: minimum score of 59
• PTE: minimum score of 58
• TOEFL: minimum score of 79

The university has a separate language proficiency test if you want to pursue engineering programs. Please check the official website for further information.

5. University of Regina

You can directly apply to the University of Regina without the IELTS certificate. You may use the alternative test scores to get admission to this reputable institution. Find below the tests and minimum test scores required below:

• CAEL: Score of 70
• TOEFL: Minimum score of 20 in each section
• PTE: Score of 59
• CanTEST: Overall score of 4.5, with at least 4.0 in each component
• MELAB: Score of 80
• UofR ESL: Advanced EAP 050

6. Brock University

The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus. The university offers various undergraduate and graduate programs with English as a medium of instruction. They accept IELTS and also scores in CAEL, MELAB, YELT, Duolingo, and TOEFL to prove language proficiency. Additionally, the university provides ESL programs such as the Intensive English Language Program (IELP).

7. University of Prince Edward Island

The University of Prince Edward Island is in the northern Atlantic province of Prince Edward Island, Canada. The medium of instruction is English, and they accept other tests besides IELTS. Students can prove English proficiency through tests such as TOEFL, CAEL, PTE Cambridge B2 First, C1 or C2, GTEC CBT, or English 621. Each program at UPEI maintains specific minimum score requirements, and they vary with Arts, Science, and Business Engineering programs.

8. Seneca College

International students from non-English speaking countries can prove their language proficiency through :

• CAEL CE and CAEL Online: Minimum score of 60
• Cambridge English Exams (B2 First/FCE, C1 Advanced/CAE, or C2 Proficiency/CPE): At least 169 with no skill below 162
• PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58
• TOEFL iBT: At least 80 with no section less than 20.
• TOEFL Revised Paper Delivered: No skill below 20

The validity of tests must be for two years. Also, if the students are English natives, then they are exempt from producing proofs.

9. Cambrian College

This premium institution in Ontario accepts English proficiency tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo (temporarily included).

Alternatively, they can enroll in the English for Academic Purposes Program (EAPP). Also, students must note that the minimum English requirements may vary depending on the program:

• TOEFL (Internet-based test): 80 for Diploma/Certificate; 84 for Grad Certificate; 88 for Degrees.
• TOEFL (Paper-based test): 550 for Diploma/Certificate; 570 for Grad Certificate.
• PTE: 58 for Diploma Certificate; 61 for Grad Certificate and score 58 for Degrees.
• Duolingo: Between 105 and 115 for Diploma/Certificate; above 120 for Grad Certificate.

10. Algoma University

The university offers various undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate and diploma programs for students from diverse backgrounds. International students can produce any one of the language proficiency certificates to get admission:

• CAEL: 60
• Cambridge English Qualifications: 176 with no band below 169
• Duolingo: 110 (no band below 90)
• TOEFL: 550 (paper-based) or 79 (Computer or Home Edition)
• PTE: 60
• ENG4U (OSSD) or ENGL12 (BC Curriculum): Completion of 3 years of full-time coursework with a minimum grade of 70%

However, students who have completed the International Baccalaureate may be eligible for a waiver of these requirements. Check the official websites for more details.

11. Concordia University

One of the top-ranked universities in North America, the university offers diverse programs in various disciplines. It accepts multiple English language proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, CAEL, or CAE (A1 Advanced) & CPE (C2 Proficiency), to ensure that students have the skills to thrive in academic pursuits during their stay in Canada.

Documents Required for Proving Language Proficiency in Canada

1. Provide scores from other English Proficiency tests such as TOEFL (iBT), Duolingo English Test, CAEL, PTE, CELPIP, or CanTest.
2. Submit proof of studying in an English medium school for at least four years.
3. If you are from one of the English-speaking countries exempted from IELTS, provide proof of national identity.
4. Enroll in an English language program the university or college offers. These programs are designed for students who are unable to submit English proficiency scores and provide them with the necessary language skills to succeed in their academic endeavours.

International students usually have problems with the IELTS for various reasons. They may not be good enough to attempt essay questions if they lack writing abilities. The length of the test is also too unpredictable; for the speaking section, students may have to wait for another day or week according to the time availability. The time and financial constraints pose a burden to many students, which makes them lose their confidence.

Hopefully, after reading the article, you may now know how to get admission to prestigious institutions in Canada without needing IELTS. Start preparing for your preferred test and meet the minimum requirement based on your chosen program's demand. Let your academic journey in Canada begin with confidence and dedication.

At ImmiLaw Global, our team includes proficient immigration lawyers and overseas study experts. We offer personalized guidance to suit your unique needs. 

Feel free to contact us for any concerns regarding various tests, document submissions, or planning an educational journey tailored to your needs.

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