IELTS Score Requirement for Canada Study Visa for Indian Students in 2025

Kasturika Samanta

5 min read

Updated On Feb 14, 2025

The article details IELTS score requirements for a Canadian study visa, typically 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each section. It lists top universities' scores and highlights the importance of checking official sites for accurate, updated requirements.

Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Study Visa for Indian Student
Top Universities in Canada with their Minimum IELTS Requirements
Why Do You Need to Take IELTS for a Student Visa in Canada?

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Being aware of the IELTS requirement for Canada Student Visa, also known as Study Permit in Canada, is crucial for preparing for the exam. It will not only help the test-taker to set the required goal but also encourage them to apply to the premier institutes in Canada.

In this blog, we have presented all the important information related to the minimum IELTS score requirement for Canada Study Visa for Indian students.

Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Study Visa for Indian Student

The minimum IELTS score required for Canada Study Visa varies based on the course, level of study and the institution. However, as a general rule, the majority of Canadian universities demand an IELTS overall score of 6, with at least 5.5 IELTS score in each of the four sections.

It is also important to note that the specific requirements for the IELTS score for Canada can vary. So, it is advised to check the official website of the Canadian immigration authorities or the educational institution for the most recent and accurate information on IELTS score requirements for a Canada student visa before applying.

Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Based on Study Level

Apart from factors like the university and the course the candidate is applying for, the level of study also plays an important role in determining the minimum IELTS band requirement for Canada study permit for international students.

IELTS Score for Canada Based on Study Level

When it comes to IELTS requirements for degree level, undergraduate programs require a minimum of 5.5 bands in each module and an overall score of 6.0. Alternatively, you will need an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or above, in addition to a minimum band of 6.0 in each component for postgraduate studies.

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Top Universities in Canada with their Minimum IELTS Requirements

After learning the Canada IELTS requirement for student visa, the next vital step is to know the Canada student visa IELTS band requirements for some of the top universities in the country. So, let’s explore the lists of band requirement for Canada universities as per the QS World Rankings 2025 and some other premier Canadian institutes.

IELTS Requirement for Canadian Universities in the QS World University Rankings 2025

When applying to top Canadian universities, a higher IELTS band score might be necessary, especially for competitive programs. Here's a table with the best Canadian universities, their QS Rank 2025, and the minimum IELTS scores needed.

University Name	QS Rank 2025	Undergraduate IELTS Requirement	Postgraduate IELTS Requirement
University of Toronto	25	6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section	7.0 with at least 6.5 in each section
McGill University	29	6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section	6.5 or above, with at least 6.5 in each section
University of British Columbia (UBC)	38	6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section	7.0 with at least 6.5-7.0 in each section
University of Alberta	96	6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section	7.0 with at least 6.0 in each section
University of Waterloo	115	7.0 with at least 6.0 in each section	7.0 with at least 6.5-7.0 in each section
Western University	=120	6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section	6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section
Université de Montréal	=159	Above 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section	Above 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section
McMaster University	=176	6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section	6.5 with at least 5.5 or above in each section
University of Ottawa	189	6.5 with at least 6.0 in 3 sections and 6.5 in Writing	7.0 with at least 7.0 in 3 sections & 6 in the 4th
Queen's University at Kingston	193	6.5 with at least 6.0 in each section	7.0-7.5 with at least 6.5 in each section

List of Colleges with 6.0 Band Requirement for Canada Study Visa

Here’s a table listing universities and colleges in Canada that accept an IELTS score of 6.0 for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Institution Name	Program Level	Minimum IELTS Score	Additional Requirements
Brock University	Undergraduate	6.0 (no band below 5.5)	May require ESL program completion
Carleton University	Undergraduate	6.0 (with conditional ESL)	Specific courses may have higher requirements
University of Regina	Undergraduate & Postgraduate	6.0 (no band below 5.5)	Higher scores may be required for certain programs
Saint Mary's University	Undergraduate	6.0 (no band below 5.5)	For direct entry; conditional ESL for lower scores
Royal Roads University	Undergraduate & Postgraduate	6.0	Relevant work experience might be required for postgraduate programs
Yorkville University	Undergraduate	6.0	Subject to meeting other academic criteria
Humber College	Undergraduate	6.0 (no band below 5.5)	Program-specific requirements may vary
Algonquin College	Undergraduate	6.0 (no band below 5.5)	Certain programs may require a higher score
Fanshawe College	Undergraduate	6.0 (no band below 5.5)	Specific programs might have additional requirements
University of Winnipeg	Undergraduate	6.0	ESL programs available for students with lower scores
Thompson Rivers University	Postgraduate	6.0	Additional criteria may apply depending on the program

This table provides a concise overview of Canada student visa IELTS band requirements for some popular Canadian institutions that accept an IELTS score of 6.0 for various programs. Be sure to check each university or college’s official website for the most current and specific admission details.

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Why Do You Need to Take IELTS for a Student Visa in Canada?

The IELTS exam is important for a study visa in Canada for many reasons. Let’s check them one by one.

Proof of Language Proficiency: Canadian authorities require proof that international students can communicate effectively in English, which is crucial for integration into academic and social life in Canada. So, the IELTS score proves the test-taker’s level of English language proficiency.
Academic Success: High language proficiency is directly linked to academic success. IELTS ensures that students have the required level of English to complete their coursework, participate in discussions, and write assignments.
Institutional Requirement: Universities and colleges in Canada use IELTS scores to evaluate whether international students can cope with the rigors of their academic programs.

To conclude, securing the right IELTS score is a critical step in obtaining a Canada Study Visa for Indian students. Although the minimum score requirements depend on the level of study and the specific institution, it is always a good idea to check the university’s official website for accurate information. So, focus on achieving a high score to increase your chances of getting into your preferred Canadian university and ensure smooth processing of your student visa.