Exams Required to Study in Canada for International Students 2024-25

Exams Required to Study in Canada for International Students 2024-25

Edited By Jembi Selva Mary. A | Updated on Oct 09, 2024 09:46 AM IST

Attending exams required to get admission in the current academic year is mandatory for students planning to study in Canada. 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 Canada-recognised universities. Some Canadian universities accept French language proficiency such as TFI.

Every year numerous Indian and international students are keen to pursue their education in Canada due to its universities and excellent educational standards. The entrance exams necessary for admission may differ based on the chosen field of study and the particular university.

Now, you can directly study the full article to learn everything from fees, and patterns to eligibility for exams required to study in Canada.

Exams Required to Study in Canada: Highlights

Particulars

Details

Top entrance exams to study in Canada

IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAEL, SAT, and GMAT

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

  • University of Toronto

  • The University of British Columbia

  • University of Alberta

  • McGill University

  • University of Waterloo

  • Western University

What are the exams required to study in Canada?

Students interested in studying in Canada need to fulfil the eligibility requirements to get selected in 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 of 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

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 for undergraduate students as an entrance test but 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 which 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 dollars.

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. A candidate looking to take GMAT Online testing has to pay a fee of Rs. 25,040 while those who will opt for the Test centre-based test will part with Rs 23,000.

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)

1. Can I study in Canada without any exam?

Yes, you can study in Canada without any exams. Universities require LORSOP, 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. 

2. Is IELTS compulsory for Canada study?

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.

3. Which test is required for Canada?

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.

4. What exam is accepted in Canada?

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.

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Questions related to

Get answers from students and experts

Hello there,

NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is primarily an entrance exam for medical courses in India. If you're considering studying medicine in Canada, here are some key points to consider:

NEET and Medical Studies in Canada:

  1. Not Required for Admission : NEET is not required for admission to medical schools in Canada. Canadian medical schools have their own admission criteria, which typically include undergraduate degree requirements and standardized tests like the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test).

  2. Eligibility for International Students : To apply to medical schools in Canada, you usually need to complete a bachelor's degree (often with a focus on science) and achieve a good score on the MCAT.

  3. Application Process : Each Canadian medical school has specific admission requirements. It's important to research individual schools to understand their criteria, including GPA requirements, volunteer experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

  4. Recognition of Indian Medical Degrees : If you complete your medical studies in Canada, your degree will be recognized, but if you study medicine in India, you’ll need to go through the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) exams to practice in Canada.

    Recommendations:

  • Research Canadian Medical Schools : Look into the specific requirements for the medical schools you are interested in.

  • Prepare for MCAT : If you're aiming for medical school in Canada, focus on preparing for the MCAT and meeting the prerequisite courses for admission.

    Conclusion:

NEET is not necessary for studying medicine in Canada. Instead, focus on completing an undergraduate degree, taking the MCAT, and meeting the admission requirements of Canadian medical schools.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello Aspirant

Foreign Universities require a candidate to have a 4-year Bachelor's degree from a recognized University/college with enough credits. The problem that many Indian students face is that they have a degree in bachelor's but in a 3-year course. This stops them from pursuing further studies at a foreign university. Still, some universities offer bridge courses for such students. For this, they need to reach their universities 2-3 months prior and do the Bridge course. But all of this depends on the university. This is why NEP introduced the new 4-year bachelor's course.

The best course of action is to go to the Canadian Universities' websites that you wish to join and contact their admissions office via mail and talk to them about your situation, they'll help you out with it. Also, when you sit for their interviews and have a valid answer for your gap year after your Bachelor's, it would be great if you have work experience for that duration.

Hope this helps.

The eligibility criteria for MHCET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test) can be based on domicile rather than place of birth.

MHCET often considers domicile, not necessarily the place of birth, for exam eligibility. Since your son has completed his entire school education in Maharashtra, this might strengthen his case for domicile in the state.

Overall, while being born in Canada might not be a direct disqualifier, having completed his schooling in Maharashtra strengthens his case for domicile in the state. By gathering documents to prove his residence and referring to the official MHCET website or helpline, your son can get a clearer picture of his eligibility for the exam.

https://www.careers360.com/exams/mht-cet

I hope it helps!


Hello aspirant,

Canada offers ample opportunities in the field of radiology. With a B.Sc in Radiology, you can explore various career paths in Canadian healthcare institutions, including hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, and clinics. It's advisable to research the specific requirements and licensing procedures for radiology professionals in the province where you plan to settle, as regulations may vary. Pursuing further certifications or examinations recognized by Canadian authorities can enhance your prospects in the field of radiology in Canada.

Thank you

Hope this information helps you.

Dear aspirant !!

Hope you are doing good !!

Indian students must have an MBBS and clear USMLE tests to gain admission to post graduation after MBBS abroad in USA . It is important to understand that an MD/Doctor of Medicine (USA equivalent of MBBS in India) degree alone is not enough to practise medicine. A Medical PG in any specialisation is necessary..

Hope it helps you !!

Thanking you !!

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