Is It Possible to Study in Canada without IELTS AS International Students?

Sep 14, 2023
If you plan to pursue higher education in the world’s top study destinations, such as the USA, UK, Canada, or Australia, you have to provide English proficiency test scores of IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or other tests for visa and admission procedures. IELTS is a globally accepted language proficiency test recognized by the top countries, including the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada. And it becomes more significant if you want to study in Canada as every university has set IELTS score limits for international students for admission. However, international students, including those from Bangladesh, often encounter challenges when preparing for IELTS exams. These hurdles include tight deadlines for test booking and score reporting to universities where considering alternatives like PTE can be advantageous. Moreover, most of the universities and colleges in Canada accept PTE as an alternative to IELTS. So in this blog, we will shed light on the whole English proficiency testing process for international students with dreams of studying in prestigious Canadian institutions. We will cover the best alternatives to IELTS, particularly for Bangladeshi students, and provide a pathway for their preparation strategies as well. So let us get started -

What is IELTS?

What is IELTS?                 IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. Universities and employers around the world widely use the IELTS Academic to fulfill their English language proficiency test requirements. The test scores help universities and employers to learn about the student’s or employee’s English language ability. Total Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes (including the speaking test) Minimum Score: 5.5 Validity of Score: 2 years Result: 
  • on computer - available online 3-5 days after the test date
  • on paper - available online 13 days after the test date

Why Do International Students Consider Alternatives to IELTS?

Why Do International Students Consider Alternatives to IELTS? One common misconception that international students have related to studying abroad, particularly in Canada, is that IELTS is the only English Language Proficiency test accepted by the universities. However, most of the universities and colleges in Canada accept alternatives to IELTS such as - Duolingo English Test (DET), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced), and most commonly PTE (Pearson Test of English). International students, including those from Bangladesh, often encounter challenges when preparing for IELTS exams for studying in Canada. These hurdles can include tight deadlines for test booking and score reporting to universities. However, considering alternatives like PTE can be advantageous. PTE's faster booking process and quick results delivery, along with its online format, reduce the likelihood of human errors, making it a dependable option for students seeking a smoother testing experience.

How to Study in Canada without IELTS?

The first thing to do is to check entry requirements for international students in the universities of your choice. Some of the more common alternatives provided by Canadian universities for international students are listed below:
  • You can provide scores of other English proficiency tests such as PTE, TOEFL, IELTS.
  • You can also take the English language courses offered by the university for those who cannot provide English proficiency scores.
  • If you have studied in an English medium school for a minimum of 10 years under any of the curricula like British Council- IGCSE, Cambridge or IB- International Baccalaureate. And if you are able to provide proof of it, then it’s not mandatory to provide English proficiency scores.
Most universities will only accept IELTS, but you will find universities that also accept other English language proficiency tests. Some of the more common alternatives are listed below:
  • PTE (Pearson English Language Test)
  • Duolingo English Test (DET)
  • TOEFL (Test of English as Foreign Language)
  • CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced)
  • CAEL Assessment (Canadian assessment English language)
  • CanTest (Canadian Test of English for scholars and Trainees)

How Can Bangladeshi Students Best Prepare for English Language Proficiency Tests?

How Can Bangladeshi Students Best Prepare for English Language Proficiency Tests? Whether you decide to study in Canada with IELTS or PTE English proficiency test, at PFEC Global and our sister concern, Enhance English, you get trained by experienced professionals. Our PTE exam registration fees are the cheapest, and we provide laptops to our students during PTE exams.  With access to the Global PTE mock test website, students can take mock tests anywhere and anytime. Enhance English is a dedicated center for Test Preparation, offering courses in IELTS, PTE, Spoken English, Writing, Grammar, Corporate Training, SAT, and TOEFL.

Last Words

While there are alternatives to IELTS for demonstrating English proficiency when applying to Canadian universities, it is essential to consider the format and minimum score prerequisites of these tests and make an informed choice. The IELTS exam often proves more accessible for international students due to the widespread availability of test centers in close proximity. If you are getting ready for the IELTS or PTE exams and want to improve your chances of doing really well, Enhance English Bangladesh can assist you! They offer mock tests for IELTS and PTE, where you can practice and have your test answers reviewed by experts. Plus, they can help you sign up for the real IELTS or PTE exam without any trouble. So, if you are planning to take the PTE or IELTS test, start preparing today and reach out to the experts at PFEC Global Bangladesh if you have any questions!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a scholarship through IELTS from Bangladesh?

Yes, scholarships based on IELTS scores are available at certain universities for international students

How many IELTS bands are required to get a scholarship?

A minimum score above 6.5 is required to be eligible for an IELTS scholarship or fee waiver.

What is the alternative to IELTS for Canada immigration?

The CELPIP or Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program is a viable alternative to IELTS for Canada immigration.

Which version of IELTS is required for Canada immigration?

The IELTS General Training test is preferred for Canadian immigration.

Which is better IELTS academic or general training?

For studying in an English-speaking country, IELTS Academic is preferred whereas for work or immigration, IELTS General Training is recommended.

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