Any international student interested in studying in Canada must have a good understanding of the English language. This is because most courses offered in Canada are offered in English. So, in order for a student to succeed, they must be able to read, write, listen and speak effectively in English. To measure students’ skills, English proficiency exams like IELTS were created, and are now an important part of the study abroad application process.
The International English language testing system (IELTS) is the most popular English language test in the world for higher education and global migration. Over 3 million tests are taken annually, with a format designed to test English reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Students engage in a one-on-one speaking test to assess their English communication skills. This is believed to be the most effective way of testing one’s English conversation abilities.
Every academic institution requires different IELTS scores needed to get in. So, to help with your IELTS preparation, we’re sharing the average scores needed to be admitted to five of Canada’s top universities.
Thinking of studying abroad in Canada? Check out our undergraduate application process guide.
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University of Waterloo
A leading comprehensive university, the University of Waterloo is in the heart of Canada’s technology hub. It has consistently ranked as one of Canada’s top and most innovative schools. To add to that, UW offers the largest (and one of the oldest) post-secondary co-op programs in the world! Whether you have an interest in science and engineering, computer science, health, or environmental studies, you’re sure to excel at UW.
University of Waterloo IELTS preparation:
| Test Section | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
| Average Score (Overall 6.5) | 6.0 | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.5 |
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Courtesy of Western University
Western University
Western University, located in London, Ontario, is one of the largest and most beautiful universities in the province. A leading research-intensive school, Western offers 400 academic programs and nearly 200 student clubs. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, plenty of green space surrounds the campus. In fact, there’s enough trees and wild space nearby that it’s in a part of London known as “Forest City.”
Western University IELTS preparation:
| Test Section | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
| Average Score (Overall 6.5) | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
Learn more about Western University in our university spotlight.
Image Credit: Adam Jones from Kelowna, BC, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
University of Victoria
Do you dream of studying by the ocean? There aren’t many campuses in Canada that are walking distance to the beach and also offer incredible views of the mountains, but this (despite the concrete architecture pictured above) is one of them. While the University of Victoria is best known for its research in ocean and climate health, clean growth, and essentially anything environmental-science-related, the school also offers a wide variety of other programs. In addition to the sciences, students will find programs in politics, fine arts, and more.
University of Victoria IELTS preparation:
| Test Section | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
| Average Score (Overall 5.5) | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
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York University
Located just outside of Toronto’s lively downtown, York University is one of North America’s largest schools. On campus, there are around 51,000 students. York’s renowned programs range from business and law to science and fine arts. There, students will find a range of large and small lectures, and active learning labs. Also, York University offers some classes in locations closer to Toronto’s downtown core.
York University IELTS preparation:
| Test Section | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
| Average Score (Overall 6.0) | — | 6.0 | — | 6.0 |
Here’s why you should take a practice IELTS test before test day.
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University of Guelph
Guelph, Ontario is home to the University of Guelph. Many students who wish to pursue careers involving the environment, agriculture, or animals choose to attend this university as it offers excellent programs in these fields. Additionally, for students who want to become writers, Guelph hosts a writer-in-residence program to teach creative writing.
University of Guelph IELTS preparation:
| Test Section | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
| Average Score (Overall 6.5) | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
Learn more about each school’s program requirements, including IELTS, with ApplyBoard. Start your free account today!
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