Starting from August 10, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is now accepting four additional English language tests for Student Direct Stream (SDS) study visa applications.
This update offers more options for international students to demonstrate their English language skills.
Let’s dive into the details:
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Four New English Tests Accepted For Study Visa
The IRCC has broadened its range of accepted English language proficiency tests for Student Direct Stream (SDS) study visa applications. As of the aforementioned date, four additional English tests have been added to the list, offering you more flexibility in choosing the test that best suits your strengths and preferences. The four new tests are:
- Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT
What You Need to Know
It’s essential to understand the key aspects of these new language requirements to ensure a successful application process:
In-Person Examinations:
To apply for a study visa under SDS, you must complete the language examinations in person. Online or home-based exams won’t be accepted. Make sure to find an approved testing center near you.
Minimum Score Requirements:
A total of 10 English and French language proficiency tests are now accepted for the SDS study visa. Each of the accepted tests has specific minimum score requirements that you need to meet. Here’s a quick overview:
- CAEL: You need a minimum score of 60, and the results must cover all four language abilities.
- CELPIP: Your CELPIP score should be equivalent to a Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of 7 or higher for each ability.
- PTE Academic: The minimum PTE Academic score required is 60, with results from all four language abilities.
- TOEFL iBT: For TOEFL iBT, the minimum score needed is 83, covering results from all four language abilities.
Canada recognizes the importance of offering a range of language proficiency tests, not just in English but also in French. Apart from the newly accepted English tests, here’s a comprehensive list of the other accepted language proficiency tests for SDS study visas:
- IELTS Academic: You need a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6, covering results from each of the four language abilities.
- IELTS General: Your IELTS General score should be equivalent to a Canadian Language Benchmarks score of 7 or higher for each ability.
- Test de connaissance du français (TCF) Canada: Your TCF score should be equivalent to a Canadian Language Benchmarks score of 7 or higher for each ability.
- Test de connaissance du français (TCF) tout public: You need a minimum TCF tout public score of 400, with results from all four language abilities.
- Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) Canada: Your TEF score should be equivalent to a Canadian Language Benchmarks score of 7 or higher for each ability.
- Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) 5 épreuves: The minimum TEF 5 épreuves score required is 400, with results from all four language abilities. (Note: The Lexique/Structure ability isn’t required for SDS.)
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT
Eligible Countries
If you’re from one of the following 14 countries, you’re eligible to apply for a Canada study permit under the SDS program:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Brazil
- China
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- India
- Morocco
- Pakistan
- Peru
- Philippines
- Senegal
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Vietnam
Conclusion
In conclusion, these new language requirements for Canada study visas aim to simplify the application process, ensuring that students from various countries have the opportunity to pursue their education in Canada.
Stay up-to-date with the latest immigration news and remember to choose the right test that aligns with your skills and goals. Best of luck on your exciting educational journey in Canada!
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