Study in USA
Universities inviting applications | Get expert guidance
Exams Required to Study in Canada for International Students 2025-26
Every year, many students from India and around the world choose to study in Canada, as it offers prestigious universities and high educational standards. However, every applicant must take the entrance exams required for admission. The entrance or specialised exams required to study in Canada include GMAT, LSAT, MCAT and other approved exams. International students must prove English language proficiency such as IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE to get admission at Canadian universities. Some Canadian universities accept French language proficiency such as TFI. The requirements can differ depending on the institution and the program. It is important to look into the specific criteria for your chosen university and program before taking the entrance exams. A lot of universities set minimum score requirements for each test. Keep reading to find out more about the exams required to study in Canada for international students, fees, eligibility, and other details.
This Story also Contains
- Exams Required to Study in Canada: Highlights
- What are the exams required to study in Canada?
- Exams Required to Study in Canada for English Language Proficiency
- Exams Required to Study in Canada for Undergraduate Program
- Exams Required to Study in Canada for Graduate Program
Exams Required to Study in Canada: Highlights
Particulars | Details |
Top entrance exams to study in Canada | |
Main entrances for undergraduate admission | SAT (required in a few universities) |
Main entrances for graduate admission and professional studies | GRE, GMAT, MCAT, LSAT |
Top English tests in Canada | IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL and PTE |
Top Universities in Canada |
|
What are the exams required to study in Canada?
Students interested in studying in Canada need to fulfill the eligibility requirements to be selected at their desired university. They must have a minimum score to be considered for admission by the university. Depending on the level of study, university and previous education it may change. The common exams required to study in Canada for foreign students are mentioned below:
Exams required to study in Canada
English language exam scores such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and CAEL.
Undergraduate exam scores on the SAT.
Graduate exam scores GRE, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT.
Exams Required to Study in Canada for English Language Proficiency
In Canada, every course of study such as undergraduate, postgraduate and professional degrees requires English language proficiency for non-native speakers or foreign students. Here entrance exams for the English language in Canada are given:
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Pearson Language Tests (PTE)
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
English Language Proficiency in Canada
Tests | Minimum required scores |
IELTS | 6.0 |
TOEFL | 70 |
PTE | 83 |
CAEL | 60 |
Recommended eBooks
Related eBooks & Sample Papers
Exams Required to Study in Canada for Undergraduate Program
The common undergraduate fields of study in Canada include Business Administration and Finance Management along with specialisations like Energy Management and Automotive Business Administration (BBA). When applying for a program at a university you may need to take an entrance exam such as the SAT.
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT).
SAT is commonly used for undergraduate students as an entrance test but it is not compulsory for all universities in Canada; however international students may need to submit SAT scores for admission purposes. The SAT exam with a score range of 1300 to 1570 is generally accepted for admission to universities.
The SAT exam syllabus includes Mathematics, Reading, and Writing sections. The duration of the SAT is 2 hours 14 minutes and is administered by the Scholastic Assessment Test.
The application fee for the SAT in Canada is USD 111 (68+43 which is SAT cost + additional regional fee).
It is expected that the SAT score will increase scholarship and admission opportunities for international students. Among the Canadian universities that have no SAT requirement are Trent University, Royal Roads University, Capilano University, Thompson River University and Farleigh Dickinson University.
In Canada, the SAT scores are accepted by institutions such as the University of Calgary, the University of Saskatchewan, McMaster University, University of Ottawa, University of Alberta, McGill University, University of Montreal, University of Toronto, University of Waterloo and University of British Columbia.
Alternatively, American College Testing, ACT, and a few other examinations such as the International Baccalaureate, IB, and University-specific tests are taken for undergraduate programs by some of the universities.
Exams Required to Study in Canada for Graduate Program
The popular graduate majors in Canada are Master of Business Administration (MBA), Computer Science, Psychology, Public Health, Global Management, Finance, Engineering and more. To get admission to a graduate degree program, universities in Canada may require an entrance exam including the GRE, GMAT, MCAT, and LSAT.
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)
In Canada, the importance of the GRE varies by institution and the requirements vary across universities. In terms of management courses in Canada, the preferred examination for graduates is the GRE with a score of 305-320.
Specifically, in STEM disciplines such as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, where a student needs to take the GRE to get admission. The GRE Exam Pattern details analytical writing, verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning. The SAT examination lasts for 1 hour and 58 minutes. The application cost of the GRE General test is 220 dollars while the GRE Subject test is $150.
The unit that administers the GRE tests is the Educational Testing Service. Those universities in Canada where GRE scores are not mandatory include the University of Alberta, McMaster University, University of Calgary, University of Ottawa, University of Illinois, York University, Carleton University and Memorial University of Newfoundland.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)
Usually, it is noticed that the GMAT is one of the prerequisites for business master's courses and as such an MBA program is included. For the MBA programs in Canada, the GMAT scores expected for MBA admission ranges from 600-700.
The topics from the GMAT course include mathematics, English Language and Reasoning and Analysis. For the candidates taking the GMAT exam, it has a time limit of 2 hours and 15 minutes (adding a break of 10 minutes is optional). The GMAT is a standardised exam developed by the Graduate Management Admission Council.
Unlike a few of the Canadian Universities where applicants are not required of GMAT score, applicants to Boston University, the University of Central Lancashire, the University of Edinburgh Business School, Lancaster University Management School and the University of Illinois require no such documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I study in Canada without any exam?
A:
Yes, you can study in Canada without any exams. Universities require LOR, SOP, academic transcripts, passport and related documents for admission. For English language proficiency, you can show the qualified score from the 12th grade. However, the requirements may vary depending on the universities in Canada.
Q: Is IELTS compulsory for Canada study?
A:
IELTS is not compulsory for Canadian study because it is a common examination that is required to prove proficiency in English. Alternatively, international students can attend TOEFL, PTE, CAEL and other approved exams.
Q: Which test is required for Canada?
A:
The test required in Canada for undergraduate admission is the SAT and or graduate admission and professional studies include the GRE, GMAT, MCAT, and LSAT. Foreign students must prove English proficiency by submitting the scores of IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and CAEL.
Q: What exam is accepted in Canada?
A:
The exams accepted in Canada include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAEL, SAT, and GMAT. Applicants must hold the required entrance or standardised test score, to be eligible for admission at Canadian universities.
Articles
Questions related to
On Question asked by student community
Have a question related to ?
your career plan is valid as it provide knowledge which is relevant to become ips officer but you need to prepare for other subjects too because UPSC's ips broad syllabus includes Indian governance and current affairs too.
I advice to choose b.a in psychology in india as this avoids the need for an equivalency certificate after your graduation from canadian universities from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) that is mandatory for foreign degrees.
But still if you want to prefer canadian degree then you can consider Simon Fraser University and the University of Windsor which offer a combined degree B.A. in Psychology and Criminology.
Hope it helps...
An undergraduate degree abroad is a good investment if you pursue it in canada because it provides quality education at affordable costs, along with a clearer path to post-graduation work and permanent residency,making it a reliable option to settle abroad.
Coming to U.S. it offers top-tier universities and higher salaries, but have very high costs and a difficult visa process for international graduates.
And if you are not sure go for studying in your home country which is more affordable and offering opportunities in a growing tech sector.
Ultimately, a strong focus on finances and long-term career plans, including any desire to immigrate, will guide your decision.
Good luck!!
After completing a BSc in Biochemistry, you can pursue various courses in Canada such as MSc in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, or Clinical Research. These programs offer advanced knowledge and open opportunities in research, healthcare, and industry.
Hello,
Yes, you can pursue MD in Radiology in Canada after completing a B.Sc. in Radiology, but you need to complete a recognized medical degree (like MBBS) first. After that, you must pass the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) and complete a residency in radiology. Alternatively, you can explore postgraduate diploma or master’s programs in medical imaging or radiology if you wish to specialize without an MD.
Hope this helps you,
Thank you
https://www.careers360.com/courses/md-radiology
hi ,
yes , you can pursue undergraduate degree in AI ML in Canada with 65% in 12th grade , bit your options may be limited since many top universities require a minimum of 75-70% , however with some colleges or universities with flexible admission requirements may accept you .
eligibility criteria for AI /ML in Canada
academic requirement - Most top universities require 70-80% in 12th PCM for direct admission.Some colleges/universities accept students with 60-70% in 12th PCM.
English proficiency test -
(if your schooling was in English, some institutions may waive this)
- IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL: 80 – 90 (iBT)
- PTE: 50+
mathematics requirement
Since AI & ML are math-heavy, having good grades in Math (especially Calculus) will strengthen your application.
hope this helps
Applications for Admissions are open.
Study in Ireland
ApplyWant to study in Ireland? Explore Universities & Courses
University of Southampton Delhi | BSc (Hons) Admissions 2025
ApplyB.Sc (Hons) Admissions 2025 Now Open | Ranked Among the Top 100 Universities in the World by QS World University Rankings 2025 | Application Closing Soon!
MasterclassSpace GMAT preparation
ApplyAce your GMAT preparation with Masterclass space
MasterclassSpace SAT Prep
ApplyAce your SAT exam with Masterclass space.
GMAC GMAT™ Exam
ApplyUnlock GMAT Success Timeline & Expert Videos | Select test center appointment | Scores valid for 5 Years | Multiple Attempts
Study in Canada
ApplyExplore Universities, Courses & Subjects | Work while study