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Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Student Visa, PR & PGWP in 2025
Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Jul 04, 2025 11:40 AM IST | #IELTS
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IELTS is one of the most popular English proficiency tests for studying in Canada in 2025. Although other English test scores are acceptable in Canadian universities, we will be discussing the minimum IELTS score requirements for Canada universities, immigration, and permanent residency. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is highly recognised for study visa applications in Canada. International students seeking studies or work opportunities in Canada in 2025 must understand that IELTS scores are crucial for admissions, visas, and PR applications.
This Story also Contains
- Minimum IELTS Score for Canadian Universities: QS WUR 2026
- Minimum IELTS Score for Canadian Universities For UG and PG Courses
- What is CLB in IELTS?
- Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Student Visa 2025
- Minimum IELTS Score for Canada PGWP 2025
- Minimum IELTS Score Requirements For Express Entry (PR in Canada)
- IELTS Scores vs Other English Language Test Scores for Canada
In this article, we have mentioned the minimum IELTS band requirements for Canada in 2025. Besides the IELTS test scores for Canadian study visa, Indian students are also required to submit a provincial letter, a letter of acceptance in DLI, financial documents and many more. Read further for a comprehensive guide on the minimum IELTS scores for top Canada universities as per QS 2026 rankings and many more.
Also Read:
Minimum IELTS Score for Canadian Universities: QS WUR 2026
Applicants must attain a minimum IELTS band score of 6.5 to generally gain admission to top Canada universities. We have provided the top universities in Canada according to QS World University Rankings 2026. The Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) is a global premier ranking system which ranks universities worldwide based on different criteria and reputation. Let us now check the top universities in Canada, including the minimum IELTS requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Minimum IELTS Score to Study in Canada Universities
Top Universities | QS WUR 2026 | IELTS Scores for UG Courses | IELTS Scores for PG Courses |
27 | 6.5 | 6.5 | |
29 | 6.5 | 7.0 | |
40 | 6.5 | 6.5 | |
94 | 6.5 | 6.5 | |
119 | 6.5 | 7.0 | |
151 | 6.5 | 6.5 | |
168 | – | – | |
173 | 6.5 | 6.5 | |
191 | 6.5 | 6.5 | |
211 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
Also Read:
IELTS 2025 Writing Task 1 & 2 - Study Materials
Aspirants who are appearing for IELTS exam can download this eBook which have complete study material for academic writing task 1 (Data Interpretation) and academic writing task 2 (Essays) sections.
Download EBookMinimum IELTS Score for Canadian Universities For UG and PG Courses
We have already discussed the IELTS score required for top universities in Canada as per the QS ranking in 2026. However, the IELTS requirements can vary as on the university and the course of study level. We have mentioned the minimum IELTS band score for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in universities in Canada:
Level Of Study | Minimum IELTS Band Score |
UG Courses in Canada |
|
PG Courses in Canada |
|
What is CLB in IELTS?
The Canadian Language Benchmark, commonly known as CLB, is the immigration system used to recognise English proficiency for students or professionals seeking to study and work in Canada. CLB assesses candidates' English skills across four components: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Generally, the majority of organisations and immigration requirements include a CLB 7 score, which is equivalent to an IELTS band score of 6.0 in each section. Here are the CLB scores in IELTS scores:
CLB Level To IELTS Scores
CLB Level | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
10 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 7.5 |
9 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 7.0 |
8 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
6 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
5 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
4 | 3.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 |
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Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Student Visa 2025
Students must understand the IELTS band score requirements before applying for a Canada student visa to obtain it without any problem. IELTS is one of the most popular English proficiency tests to be accepted for Canada student visa applications. The minimum IELTS score requirements can vary as per the chosen university, course of study, and the level of studies. Generally, Indian students are required to achieve a minimum score of 5.5 in each section of the exam (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) and an overall score of 6.0. It is essential to remember that the specific IELTS score requirements for Canada can differ in 2025. Therefore, it is advisable to check the official website of the Canadian immigration authorities or the chosen educational institution for the latest and correct information on IELTS scores for Canada requirements regarding a student visa. Generally, there are two types of study visa application processes known to students: SDS and Non-SDS visa.
SDS Visa IELTS Requirements
Students must note that SDS (Student Direct Stream) known for faster processing of study visa applications, is discontinued effective from November 8, 2024. Hence, they need not understand the SDS Visa IELTS Requirement for 2025 due to the non-availability of the programme.
Non-SDS Visa IELTS Requirement
For students looking for a non-SDS visa, they must understand that it is the regular study visa application process. The IELTS requirements for non-SDS visa applications from India in 2025 are an overall band score of 6.0 with no score less than 5.5 in each skill section.
Related Reads:
- Reasons for Canada Student Visa Rejection
- Difference Between Student Visa and Study Permit in Canada
- Canada vs India: Which is Better for Indian Students?
Minimum IELTS Score for Canada PGWP 2025
Students on complete their studies from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI) in Canada can apply for a postgraduate work permit. It allows them to work in Canada for up to 3 years. Students must be eligible to apply for a Canada PGWP. Requirements include English proficiency, be at least 18 years of age, study full time for at least 8 months in Canadian universities on a valid study permit, and many more. Students studying non-degree courses in Canada who seek a PGWP must note that they need to complete a program in an eligible field of study as stated by the government.
So, one such crucial requirement for a PGWP in Canada is IELTS scores. Students need to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in English to obtain a work permit in Canada. Basically, the IELTS score required for a post-graduation work permit in Canada depends on the study level. Here is the minimum required scores in IELTS for PGWP:
Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Work Permit
Study Level | CLB Requirements | IELTS Requirements |
Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctoral Degree | CLB 7 | IELTS score of 6.0 in each section |
Any University Course | CLB 7 | IELTS score of 6.0 in each section |
Any College Course | CLB 5 | Scores required are:
|
Minimum IELTS Score Requirements For Express Entry (PR in Canada)
Express Entry is one of the fastest pathways for international students to obtain permanent residency in Canada. Generally, the majority of students apply for PR through the Express Entry online system. This system basically administers the international applications for 3 major Canadian economic immigration programs, which are FSWP, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Let us now discuss further in detail the IELTS requirements for the Express Entry applications.
Federal Skilled Worker Program
It is one of the popular immigration programs in Canada that allows international students with skills (classified as a part of skilled workers) to apply for permanent residency in Canada. They must be eligible in terms of educational qualification, work experience, English language proficiency, etc. Let us now check the minimum IELTS score band required for Federal Skilled Worker Program in Canada:
CLB Level | Points for each sub-category | Listening | Reading | Speaking | Writing |
7 | 4 | 6.0 -7.0 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
8 | 5 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
10 and above | 6 | 8.5-9.0 | 8.0 – | 7.5-9.0 | 7.5-9.0 |
Federal Skilled Trades Program
It is one of the Express Entry immigration programmes for international students who qualify as skilled trade persons. Although the eligibility for FSTP in Canada is quite stringent, requiring around 2 years of full-time work experience, English proficiency, and more, it allows them to obtain permanent residency. Also, the government shortlists the categories for FSTP Express Entry, and your trade must be one of it.
Generally, students require a minimum IELTS band score equivalent to CLB 5 (Speaking and Listening skills) and CLB 4 (Reading and Writing skills. Let us now check the minimum IELTS score band required for Federal Skilled Trades Program in Canada in detail:
CLB Level | Listening | Reading | Speaking | Writing |
4 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4 | 4 |
5 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
6 | 5.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
8 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
10 and above | 8.5-9.0 | 8.0-9.0 | 7.5-9.0 | 7.5-9.0 |
Canadian Experience Class
With the processing time of just 3 to 4 months, Canadian Experience Class is the fastest path for PR in Canada. The applications are accepted and administered through the Express Entry online system. Basically, this PR programme is available for students who have already completed 1 year of full time skilled work experience in Canada. As the job categories eligible for Canadian Experience Class are categorised in tiers, the English language proficiency requirements vary as per the TEER (Training, Education, Experience And Responsibilities). Check the TEERs below and the applicable job role in it:
TEER 0: Management job roles
TEER 1: Job roles with degree eligibility. (UG/PG/PhD)
TEER 2: Job roles with a college diploma, apprenticeship training or supervisory eligibility
TEER 3: Job roles with a college diploma, apprenticeship training or at least 6 months of on-the-job training eligibility
The minimum IELTS score requirements for PR in Canada for this programme vary as per the TEER and its associated NOC. Check the tables for more details:
English Proficiency Required For Canadian Experience Class
NOC Types | TEERS Included | English Requirements |
NOC A Jobs | TEER 0 and 1 | CLB 7 |
NOC B Jobs | TEER 2 and 3 | CLB 5 |
CLB Levels Equivalent To Per-Section IELTS Scores
CLB Level | Points per sub-category | Listening | Reading | Speaking | Writing |
A | 10 and above | 8.5 -9.0 | 8.0 -9.0 | 7.5 – 9.0 | 7.5 – 9.0 |
A | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
A | 8 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
A | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
B | 6 | 5.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
B | 5 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
Related Reads:
- Canada Announces a New Cap on Study Visa for 2025
- Canada Ends Conversion of Study Permit to PR
- New Visa Rules for International Students in 2025
IELTS Scores vs Other English Language Test Scores for Canada
Numerous English tests are acceptable in Canada for study visas, university admissions, work visas, and PR applications. Hence, students have an option to appear for any of the English tests to demonstrate their English command. Although IELTS is the most preferred English exam in Canada, different tests such as DET, TOEFL, and PTE are also recognised. Let us now check the basic acceptance of all these 4 English tests in Canadian DLIs and other organisations. We have also given he table showing the minimum IELTS requirements for Canada and its equivalent scores in PTE, TOEFL, and PTE.
Acceptance in Canada
Type of English test | Acceptance in Canadian Universities |
IELTS |
|
PTE |
|
Duolingo | DET Scores are accepted in more than 150 educational institutions in Canada. Hence, students need to check the chosen university for confirmation about whether or not DET is acceptable as an English language test. |
TOEFL iBT | Although most universities in Canada accept TOEFL iBT, confirming with the university is highly recommended. |
IELTS Scores And Its Equivalents For Canada
IELTS Band Score | TOEFL Score | PTE Score | DET Scores |
9 | 118-120 (Expert User) | 89-90 | 160 |
8.5 | 115-117 (Very Good User) | 83-85 | 160 |
8 | 110-114 (Very Good User) | 78-82 | 150 - 155 |
7.5 | 102-109 (Good User) | 73-77 | 140 - 145 |
7 | 94-101 (Good User) | 64-72 | 130 - 135 |
6.5 | 79-93 (Competent User) | 58-63 | 120 - 125 |
6 | 60-78 (Competent User) | 50-57 | 105 - 115 |
5.5 | 46-59 (Modest User) | 42-49 | 95 - 100 |
5 | 35-45 (Modest User) | 35-41 | 80 - 90 |
4.5 | 32-34 (Limited User) | 30-34 | 65 - 75 |
0-4 | 0-31 (Extremely limited User) | 0-30 | 10 - 60 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is an optimum IELTS score?
Scoring high in the IELTS exam is crucial due to the intense competition. Meeting the specific IELTS score requirement of each university or institution is necessary for admission. Language experts from countries like the UK, the USA, Canada, etc., are responsible for designing the test questions.
2. What is the minimum score needed for each IELTS band in order to apply for a student visa in Canada?
Most educational institutions usually ask for a minimum IELTS band score of 5.5 or 6.0 in each specific band (Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking) for undergraduate programs. However, for postgraduate programs, a higher score of 6.0 or 6.5 is usually required.
3. Is it possible to take the IELTS test again if my score falls below the minimum requirement for a Canadian student visa?
It is possible to retake the IELTS test if your score falls below the minimum requirement. It is important to ensure that you have sufficient time to retake the test and obtain the results prior to the application deadline.
4. Is it preferable to take the IELTS exam on a computer or on paper?
The online IELTS offers the advantage of having more available dates for test-takers compared to the paper-based version. Additionally, individuals taking the test can choose their preferred time slot, and results are typically received within 3-5 days. It is important to note that the content, structure, and timing of the test are consistent across both modes.
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Questions related to IELTS
Have a question related to IELTS ?
Hello,
It depends on the university you are applying to. Most German universities do not require GATE for admission to a Master's in Biotechnology. However, some universities may ask for the GRE , especially if you are applying to a highly competitive program.
You should check the specific admission requirements of the universities you are interested in. Generally, having IELTS (or TOEFL) and a German language proficiency certificate (if the course is in German) is enough.
Hope it helps !
Prachi Kumari 20 March,2025
Hello,
One the most general tips for the preparation of both tests would be to go for a structured approach and understand the format of the tests respectively and work on improving grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation along with it take regular tests and reviews them. Both have 4 section, Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking, so all four must be kept in focus, and thus you must plan your time according to your needs and areas of improvement.
Now, for TOEFL, it's recommended to use resources from ETS, that is, official materials and tests.
For IELTS, it's recommended to use resources from IDP, British Council and Cambridge, that give you sample tests and questions.
Wishing an all the very best for the test.
Vanshika Agarwal 07 December,2024
Hello Student,
For the AMC (Australian Medical Council) exam , which assesses international medical graduates for practice in Australia, the IELTS requirement is generally a minimum overall score of 7.0 , with no individual band score below 7.0 (in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking).
Alternatively, the AMC also accepts equivalent scores from OET, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic :
- OET : A grade of B in all four components.
- TOEFL iBT : A minimum overall score of 94, with minimum scores of 24 in Listening, 24 in Reading, 27 in Writing, and 23 in Speaking.
- PTE Academic : A minimum overall score of 65, with a minimum score of 65 in each communicative skill.
Meeting these requirements is essential to proceed with the AMC’s application and registration processes.
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.
kumardurgesh1802 31 October,2024
Hello
To be eligible for the Australian Medical Council (AMC) exams , candidates must demonstrate English .
AMC assessment process :
1. Accepted English Language Tests and Scores
IELTS ( International English Language Testing System ) :
Overall band score : 7.0 in each band ( listening , reading , writing and speaking ) .
PTE Academic ( Pearson Test of English Academic ) :
Overall score of 65 in each band ( listening , reading , writing and speaking ) .
2. Validity of Test Scores
The test results must be no older than two years at the time of submitting your AMC application .
3. Preparation Tips for IELTS
Practice regularly : Build your language skills across all four components .
Take practice exams : practice can help improve speed and accuracy .
professional coaching if needed , specially for writing and speaking , which are often the most challenging part .
Use official IELTS resources : Cambridge IELTS books , online mock tests and other reliable materials can give you an accurate rating .
4. Application Tips
Ensure that your English test scores are valid and meet the minimum requirements before applying .
Keep a copy of your scores as they may need to be provided to both the AMC and registration authority in Australia .
Hope this helps you .
All the best
Mitali Sharma 31 October,2024
If you have completed a master's degree in the UK, you might still need to take the IELTS test to qualify for a Permanent Residency (PR) or Work Visa in Australia. While your degree from an English-speaking country like the UK may demonstrate your proficiency in English, Australian immigration authorities typically require a standardized English language test score, such as IELTS, to assess your language skills formally.
For better guidance, Invicta Institute can provide you with detailed information and assistance regarding the specific English language requirements for Australian PR or Work Visa applications. Invicta's experienced counselors can help you navigate the process and determine if your UK degree suffices or if you need to take the IELTS test.
Amrita Koner 18 July,2024
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