February 8, 2025 
For international students, studying in Canada is a dream that they have, however the confusion regarding IELTS score for Canada creates a lot of uncertainty. What if you can actually pursue studies in the best of universities without even achieving the strict IELTS required score for Canada? Many Institutions have flexible requirements to gain admission, and you can find pathways to establish English-speaking ability. Knowing the requirements of Seneca College IELTS requirement and Canada College Montreal IELTS requirement can maximize your study opportunities in Canada without the need for IELTS.
Apart from language requirements, financial aid is of vital importance when it comes to studying abroad. If you are looking for scholarship for Indian students in Canada, There are many fully funded scholarships to make education in Canada easier. No matter, if it is for prestigious universities or colleges like Seneca and Canada College Montreal, information about their PTE requirement and also if they offer an alternate admission route, can make the process go more smoothly. Keep reading to find out more about how you can get your dream education in Canada with no IELTS!
Key Considerations for Studying in Canada Without IELTS
With careful planning, you can study in Canada without an IELTS. Key points to consider:
- English requirement: the majority of universities will accept a TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo.
- Medium of Instruction: If the previous education was in English, exemption will be granted.
- Pathway Programs: Certain schools provide preparatory courses to enhance English proficiency prior to entering the primary program.
Universities to Study in Canada Without IELTS
There are several Canadian universities that accept alternative exams instead of IELTS to showcase English language proficiency. Here is a list of some of these institutions and their alternative requirements and eligibility:
| University | Alternative Requirements | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| University of Winnipeg | Finalized by the successful completion of English Language Program (ELP). | Degree programs offered after first ELP enrollment. |
| Brock University | Required TOEFL, PTE, or finishing the Intensive English Language Program (IELP). | Achievement of TOEFL/PTE score or completion of IELP. |
| University of Saskatchewan | TOEFL, CanTEST, Duolingo, CAEL; English for Academic Purposes program. | Requirement for SAT/ACT test score or completion of EAP program. |
| Concordia University | TOEFL, CAEL or completion of the university’s English Language Program. | Achieving a certain score in the required section or finishing the language program. |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | TOEFL, CAEL acceptable; provides Intensive English Programme. | Attaining required scores or graduating from the program. |
| Cambrian College | TOEFL, PTE accepted; English for Academic Purposes Program (4–10 months) offered. | Results from test scores or completion of EAPP, based on assessment. |
| Carleton University | TOEFL, CAEL, or completion of English as a Second Language (ESL) program. | Meeting test scores or completion of ESL program. |
| University of Regina | TOEFL, Duolingo, CAEL; provides ESL. | Achieving required scores or completing the ESL program. |
Top Colleges in Canada for MS Without IELTS
Most Canadian colleges and universities provide Masters courses without IELTS exams. Here is a table of Canadian Top Colleges for MS and their alternative requirements.
| Institution | Alternative Requirements | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Seneca College | PTE Academic (minimum 58) or Duolingo (minimum 105) | Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 |
| Canada College Montreal | TOEFL (minimum 80) or PTE (minimum 54) | Relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 2.8 |
| Cambrian College | English language test specific to that institution or evidence of prior education in English | Related diploma or degree in relevant field |
| University of Winnipeg | Duolingo (no less than 115) or TOEFL (no less than 86) | Bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA |
How to Study in Canada Without IELTS: Step-by-Step Process
Another way you can work towards your dream is by planning your studies in Canada without IELTS. Here are the main steps to accomplish your goal:
- Research Institutions: Look universities or colleges without IELTS
- Review Alternative Requirements: Confirm whether or not they accept PTE, TOEFL or other tests.
- Evidence of Prior Study in an English Medium Institution: provide evidence of having studied at least the past four years in an English-medium school.
- national identity: If you come from an English-speaking country that does not require IELTS, you may submit proof of your national identity.
- Pathway Programs: Sign up for preparatory courses if required.
- Apply: Complete and submit your application with required documents.
- Obtain a Student Visa: After acceptance, follow the steps for obtaining your visa
Study in Canada Without IELTS: Alternatives for International Students
Options For Showing Your English Proficiency If You Cannot Take The IELTS Exam
- Proof that previous degree was in English: you need proof that your previous degree was in English.
- English Proficiency Tests:Â Opt for PTE, TOEFL, or Duolingo.
- Institution-Specific Tests:Â Some colleges, like Cambrian College, conduct their own English proficiency tests.
- Language Requirement:Â Enroll in pathway programs to meet language requirements.
Scholarships for international Students in Canada
There are numerous scholarships available for Indians students to pursue studies in Canada. Here is a table of available fully funded Canadian scholarships with their overview:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Seneca College Scholarships | Criteria vary by award. | Awards vary from $50 to $5,000, and are based on academic merit and financial need. |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | International students who excel academically and lead within their school community. | Provides four years’ tuition, books, incidental fees and full residence support. |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship | PhD research scholars | $50,000 per year for three years while pursuing a doctoral degree. |
| University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship | International undergraduates meeting English proficiency requirements. | $20,000, renewable each year based on academic success. |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship | For graduate students at Ontario universities. | $15,000 annually to masters or doctoral programs. |
| The University of Winnipeg President Scholarship 2025 | Graduate students. | Up to CAD 5,000 per year to ease tuition and living expenses. |
Student Visa in Canada Without IELTS
Here are the steps you need to take in order to apply for a student visa in Canada without IELTS:
- Proof of enrollment at an approved institution in Canada
- Submit alternative English proficiency test scores (if applicable).
- Show proof of financial stability.
- Submit the visa application via the IRCC website