Language Proficiency Requirements
One of the core requirements to study in Canada is proving English language proficiency through an approved test. Every Nepali student applying for a Canadian study permit must meet the language requirements set by both IRCC and their chosen institution. Scores vary by program level and university.
Accepted English Language Tests
To study in Canada, your English proficiency must be demonstrated through one of the following approved tests. IELTS Academic is the most widely accepted across Canadian institutions.
|
Test |
Accepted For |
|
IELTS Academic |
Study permit + university admission |
|
PTE Academic |
Study permit + university admission |
|
TOEFL iBT |
Study permit + university admission |
|
Duolingo English Test |
Select institutions only |
|
Cambridge C1 Advanced |
Select institutions only |
Minimum Scores by Program Level
The minimum language scores required to study in Canada differ based on your program level. Most institutions require an overall IELTS of 6.0 to 6.5 for undergraduate and 6.5 to 7.0 for postgraduate programs.
|
Program Level |
IELTS |
PTE |
TOEFL iBT |
Duolingo |
|
Diploma |
6.0 (no band below 5.5) |
58+ |
80+ |
105+ |
|
Bachelor’s |
6.5 (no band below 6.0) |
60+ |
85+ |
110+ |
|
Master’s / PG Diploma |
6.5 to 7.0 (no band below 6.0) |
65+ |
90+ |
115+ |
|
Student Direct Stream (SDS) |
6.0 (no band below 6.0) |
60+ |
83+ |
N/A |
Always confirm score requirements directly with your chosen institution as they vary by program.
IELTS Requirements at Top Canadian Universities
Nepali students who plan to study in Canada at a top-ranked university should note that most require a minimum IELTS of 6.5 at the undergraduate level. Postgraduate programs at several universities require 7.0 or higher.
|
University |
Undergraduate (IELTS) |
Postgraduate (IELTS) |
|
6.5 |
7.0 |
|
|
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
|
University of British Columbia |
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
University of Alberta |
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
University of Waterloo |
6.5 |
7.0 |
|
McMaster University |
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
University of Ottawa |
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
University of Calgary |
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
Queen’s University |
6.5 |
7.0 |
|
Simon Fraser University |
6.5 |
7.0 |
|
Dalhousie University |
6.5 |
7.0 |
|
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
|
University of Saskatchewan |
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
York University |
6.5 |
7.5 |
|
Memorial University |
6.5 |
6.5 |
Some faculties such as Education and Nursing require higher scores. Confirm with the specific department before applying.
Language Proficiency Exemptions
Not every student who wants to study in Canada needs to submit a language test. Some Nepali students may qualify for an exemption depending on their previous education background.
|
Exemption |
Condition |
|
English-medium previous education |
Completed post-secondary studies fully in English |
|
English as first language |
Applicant’s country uses English as an official language |
Exemptions are granted at the institution’s discretion. Always confirm your eligibility directly before skipping the test requirement.
Language Requirements Under Student Direct Stream (SDS)
SDS is a fast-track study permit process available to Nepali students who want to study in Canada with quicker processing times. To qualify under SDS, you must achieve a minimum IELTS Academic overall score of 6.0 with no band below 6.0. PTE Academic score of 60 or above is also accepted.
Important Notes
- Test results must be less than 2 years old at the time of application
- A low score in any single band can lead to refusal even if the overall score is met
- Duolingo is accepted only at select institutions ,do verify before registering
- French-language institutions in Quebec require a TEF (Test d’Évaluation du français) instead of IELTS
Planning to study in Canada? Book a free consultation today for guidance on test preparation, institution selection, and your study permit application.
