What Every International Student Needs to Know about IELTS to Study in Canada
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of international students. It is widely used for admission requirements, immigration, and professional purposes. The test evaluates four key language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Which IELTS Test is Required to Study in Canada
To study in Canada, you should take the **IELTS Academic** exam to meet admission requirements. This version of the IELTS test is specifically designed for international students planning to undertake higher education or professional registration in Canada’s English-speaking academic environment. Neither the IELTS UKVI nor IELTS General is accepted for admission to a Canadian institution. And whether you take the British, American or Australian English test doesn’t matter. Canadian English is unique in that it is a combination of both British and American English so all that is required is excellent communication skills in the English language.
Most Canadian universities and colleges require international students to submit IELTS Academic scores as part of their admission requirements. Make sure to check the specific language requirements of the institutions you are applying to, as they may have their own minimum score requirements for different programs. Just to give you an idea, here are some English Language Proficiency requirements at some Canadian universities and colleges:
When Should an International Student Write the IELTS Test?
It is best to write the test before applying to a university or college. While some Canadian universities and colleges will offer a conditional offer contingent on receipt of IELTS results, many do not. If you do not meet the ELP admission requirement, you will not receive an offer of any sort, therefore, it is best to have your IELTS results available at the time of applying to the university or college.
Which IELTS Test is Better? Computer-based or Paper-based?
Choosing between the IELTS online (computer-delivered) test and the paper-based test depends on your personal preferences and test-taking strengths. Here are some factors to consider for each format:
IELTS Online (Computer-Delivered) Test:
Advantages:
- Typing vs. Writing: If you type faster and more accurately than you write, the computer-based test may be more suitable.
- Faster Results: Results are typically available within 5-7 days.
- Flexible Dates: More frequent test dates and time slots.
- User Interface: The listening test includes features like highlighting text and making notes.
Disadvantage:
- Screen Time: Staring at a screen for several hours can be tiring for some candidates.
- Technical Skills: Basic computer skills are required to navigate the test efficiently.
Paper-Based Test:
Advantages:
- Writing: If you are more comfortable writing by hand and your handwriting is clear and legible, you might prefer this format.
- Note-Taking: Some candidates find it easier to annotate and make notes directly on the question paper.
- Less Screen Fatigue: No need to spend long periods looking at a screen.
Disadvantages:
- Slower Results: Results typically take 13 days to be released.
- Fixed Dates: Fewer test dates and time slots compared to the computer-based test.
Considerations
1. **Typing vs. Writing Speed**: Assess whether you are faster and more accurate typing or writing by hand.
2. **Comfort Level**: Decide whether you feel more comfortable and less stressed using a computer or writing on paper.
3. **Test Environment**: Consider the physical environment of each test format and which one you might find less distracting.
4. **Availability**: Check the availability of test dates and locations for both formats in your area.
Conclusion
- Choose the computer-delivered test if you are comfortable with computers, prefer typing, and want faster results.
- Choose the paper-based test if you prefer writing by hand, are less comfortable with computers, or find it easier to work on paper.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and strengths. If possible, try practice tests in both formats to see which one you feel more comfortable with.
Do All International Students Need to Write the IELTS Test
IELTS results may not be required for admission depending on your previous education. Notably, Cambridge O/A level students with B or better in O level English are exempt from writing the IELTS exam, as are IB students who have the required score in either English HL or English SL. Other exemptions may apply as well. But note that most colleges and polytechnics require an ELP test score to meet admission requirements, whether it is IELTS or another ELP exam.
Additionally, students who wish to apply for their Canadian study permit through the SDS route must write and ELP test to meet the study permit requirement. The most accessible exams are IELTS, TOEFL and PTE. As an international student, you might want to consider writing the IELTS test for your visa application even if you meet the ELP requirement at the university or college where you will be applying.
As a prospective international student, you should always verify the specific IELTS requirements directly from the Canadian university or program you are interested in to ensure you meet their standards. Or if you are a Pakistani student wanting to study in Canada, contact Go 2 Canada Education Services for more information on English Language Proficiency admission requirements and IELTS.