Canada is a leading destination for students because there are plenty of top-tier universities with scholarship options and a good quality of life. Canadian universities and colleges are known for their high academic standards and cultural diversity.
To obtain a student visa, demonstrating proficiency in English through the IELTS exam is vital. The IELTS test ensures that students can communicate and participate in academic activities.
For 2024, the minimum IELTS score for Canada student visa band requirement is 5.5 in each section (listening, reading, writing, and speaking). However, the overall IELTS band requirement for Canada is typically 6.0.
IELTS is essential for studying in Canada because it ensures that international students possess the necessary English language skills to excel in their academic programs. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts IELTS as proof of English language proficiency when you are applying for a student visa.
Based on your IELTS score for the Canada visa, universities and colleges determine whether a student can comprehend course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assignments in English.
Furthermore, the Canadian government requires IELTS scores as part of the student visa application process to ensure students can adapt to and thrive in an English-speaking country. It is beneficial to know before students start their study abroad journey.
IELTS is a standardized examination that tests the efficiency of the English language in non-native English speakers. Since the medium of education in Canada is mostly English, it is important to judge the proficiency of students in terms of writing, reading, speaking, and listening. There are a few prerequisites for the Canadian student Visa IELTS band requirement.
There are a few prerequisites for the Canadian student Visa IELTS band requirement.
Canadian student visa IELTS band requirement is assessed based on Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).
CLB ranges from levels 1 to 9, with specific scores allocated to each section of the IELTS examination.
Undergraduate programs typically require an IELTS band of 5.5 in each section and an overall score of 6.
Postgraduate programs mandate a minimum band score of 6 in each section and an overall score of 6.5 or higher.
IELTS results demonstrate proficiency aligned with CLB standards, influencing eligibility for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Canada.
Level of Study
IELTS Score Requirement
Undergraduate
IELTS: 6.5 (with no bands less than6.0)
Postgraduate
IELTS: 7.0 (with no bands less than 6.5 in each section)
Minimum IELTS Score to Study in Canada
A minimum IELTS band of 6 is necessary to secure a seat at a Canadian university. To apply for a Canadian study permit or visa, international students need to score a minimum of 5.5 IELTS scores in each of the IELTS bands.
Canadian universities' minimum IELTS band requirement varies between undergraduate and postgraduate programs. A minimum band score of 5.5 in each of the four sections—writing, reading, speaking, and listening—is typically required for undergraduate admissions. Each section's score is crucial in assessing proficiency in these key areas.
The aggregate score would be around 6.0 for the undergraduate courses. For the post-graduation courses, international students will have higher scores and band requirements. The students need to score a minimum of 6 in all four IELTS sections, and the total score should be more than 6.5.
This is the minimum eligibility and IELTS band requirement to get a student visa. The band score requirements below will help international students fulfill the Canada student visa IELTS band requirements for 2024. Also, students must ensure that all other requirements are met along with the IELTS band score.
The below table shows the IELTS band requirements for Canada’s Top 10 Universities:
University
QS World University Ranking 2025
Minimum IELTS score requirement
The University of Toronto
25
6.5 (with no band less than 6.0 in each section)
McGill University
29
6.5 (with no band less than 6.0 in each section)
University of British Columbia
81
6.5 (with no band less than 6.0 in each section)
University of Montreal
=159
Not specified
University of Alberta
96
6.5 (with no band less than 6.0 in each section)
McMaster University
=176
6.5 (with no band less than 6.0 in each section)
University of Waterloo
115
7.0 (with no less than 6.0 in each section)
Western University
=120
6.5 (with no band less than 6.0 in each section)
University of Ottawa
189
6.5 (with 6.5 bands in Writing)
University of Calgary
=198
8.0 (with no band less than 7.0 in each section)
Source: University website
IELTS Requirement for PR
Let us first understand the Express Entry pathway for Canadian residency to understand if a low IELTS score is accepted for a Canadian PR.
Express Entry System: Introduced in 2015 by the Canadian government, it is a point-based immigration system for skilled workers seeking permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
Points Allocation: Points are assigned based on various factors such as language proficiency, work experience, education, and other skills.
Language Proficiency Requirement: To qualify for PR through Express Entry, applicants must demonstrate a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6 with at least 6.0 in each test section.
Points Scale: Points awarded increase with higher CLB levels. For instance, CLB 7 earns 4 points per subcategory, CLB 8 earns 5 points, CLB 9 earns 6 points, and CLB 10 and above earn the maximum points.
Second Language Points: Applicants whose first language is not English can earn 4 points if they achieve at least CLB 5 or higher.
These points determine eligibility and the likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for a Canada PR Visa through Express Entry.
Here are few more Samples Reading Answers for IELTS
Get to know about the latest updates on the IELTS Exam, Eligibility, Preparation Tips, Test procedure, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Registration Process, Important Exam Dates, and much more!! This guide is a one-stop solution for every IELTS Aspirant who aims to crack the exam with an impressive band score.
Conclusion
International students applying to Canadian universities must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS scores, which is crucial for both admissions and visa applications.
The IELTS assessment covers writing, speaking, reading, and listening skills, aligning with Canadian Language Benchmark standards. Meeting the minimum IELTS score requirement is essential for securing admission, as well as opportunities for work visas and permanent residency in Canada.
Achieving this benchmark ensures students can thrive in Canada's English-speaking academic environment and integrate effectively into Canadian society.
It underscores the significance of linguistic readiness for academic success and social integration in Canadian institutions.
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The only major change to the overall IELTS requirement for Canadian student visas was implemented in August 2023, which applies specifically to the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program.
What is the new rule of SDS in Canada?
Students applying through the SDS program only need an overall IELTS academic score of 6.0. Previously, candidates were required to have a minimum score of 6.0 in each section (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).
What is the minimum IELTS score required for a Canadian student visa in 2024?
For undergraduate programs, the minimum band requirement for Canada is an overall band of 6.0. For postgraduate courses, the minimum IELTS score for a Canada student visa is typically an overall band of 6.5.
What is IELTS?
IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is a widely recognized and common English language proficiency test that assesses the ability of non-native speakers to communicate effectively in academic and professional environments.
The IELTS exam evaluates four key language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. IELTS scores are widely recognized by educational institutions, employers, and immigration authorities worldwide. High IELTS scores demonstrate that you can understand and participate in lectures, coursework, and student life in Canada, where English is the primary language of instruction.
What are the student visa requirements for Canada?
To apply for a student visa in Canada, you need a valid passport, letter of acceptance from your university, proof of finances, letter of intent, Quebec Acceptance Certificate (when applying for a university in Quebec province), and proof that you have paid your study permit fee.
How Much Band Required for Canada After 12th?
If you are applying for undergraduate programs, the minimum overall IELTS band requirement for Canada after the 12th is 6.0, with no band score lower than 5.5 in each section. However, this is just a general requirement, and some programs may have higher expectations.
How Many Bands are Required for Canada After Graduation?
Wondering how many bands are required for Canada after graduation? For a PG diploma, master’s degree, and other postgraduate programs, a minimum of 6.5 overall, with a minimum score of no less than 5.5 or 6.0 in each band, is essential.
What is the IELTS Requirement for Canada for Masters?
To pursue a master’s degree in Canada, the IELTS band requirement generally includes an overall score of at least 6.5, and some universities require a band of 7.0. Individual band scores should be no less than 5.5 or 6.0 depending on the institution.
How to apply for a Canadian student visa?
Applying for a student visa in Canada involves selecting the university you want to apply in, checking the eligibility criteria, filling out the visa application form on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website, collecting the required documents, clearing the English language proficiency exams( IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, and C1 Advanced) and booking the biometrics appointment.
Can I apply for a Canadian study visa with 6 bands?
Yes, you can apply for the Canada study visa with 6 bands as it is the minimum band score required for applying to Canadian universities.
Is 4.5 band eligible for Canada?
Unfortunately, a 4.5 IELTS band score is unlikely to meet the minimum requirements for a Canadian student visa. With 4.5 or 5 bands in IELTS for Canada, you are generally not eligible for admission to universities or colleges.
Is IELTS valid for 3 years now in Canada?
The validity of IELTS test results for Canadian student visa applications remains 2 years from the test date. This differs from other immigration pathways, where it is 3 years.
How much funds are required for a Canada student visa?
International students must share proof of funds of at least CAD 10,000 in their Bank Account.
Does Canada give student visas easily?
Compared to the US Study Permit visa process, the Canadian visa process is simpler and faster, making it easier for international students to get a study permit. A Canadian study permit can be processed in three weeks.
How long does it take to get a Canada student visa?
Getting a Canada student visa can take up to 1 week- 3 weeks.
What happens if you don't achieve your desired IELTS score for Canada?
If you don’t achieve the required IELTS score for your program, you can retake the IELTS test and aim for a higher score. Enroll in English language preparation courses to enhance your skills in all four areas (reading, writing, listening, and speaking). You can also explore universities or programs with slightly lower IELTS requirements.
Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT, and has now scaled up as a 360-degree content professional well-versed with the intricacies of digital marketing and different forms of content used to drive and hook the target audience.
She is also a co-author of 2 stories in an anthology based on the theme- women empowerment.
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