Universities in Canada Without IELTS: Updated List for 2025/2026
07. October 2025
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Universities in Canada Without IELTS: Updated List for 2025/2026
Many Canadian universities now offer pathways for international students who cannot submit IELTS scores. These alternatives may include English-medium education history, internal language programs, or other tests like TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, CAEL, etc. This 2025/2026 guide presents institutions that waive IELTS under certain conditions, and how you can qualify.
Tip: Even if a university “doesn’t require IELTS,” there are usually alternative requirements. These could be:
Proof of English-medium education (e.g. high school or previous degree)
Alternative English tests (TOEFL, Duolingo, CAEL, PTE, etc.)
Completion of an internal/preparatory English program
Conditional admission with language support
University of Winnipeg — IELTS not mandatory if you provide an alternative test (e.g. Duolingo, TOEFL) or complete their English Language Program (ELP). :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
University of Saskatchewan — Accepts alternative tests (TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo) or language centre / preparatory programs; may waive requirement if prior English education. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Brock University — Students can use other recognized proficiency tests or enroll in their Intensive English Language Program (IELP) instead of IELTS. Also prior English study may suffice. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Concordia University — Waives IELTS/TOEFL if you completed education in English; accepts CAEL, PTE, Duolingo, etc. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador — Accepts alternative tests, ESL or English or academic work in English, or completion of their own language program. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
University of Regina — Offers several alternatives (TOEFL, CAEL, PTE, Duolingo, CanTEST) or completion of internal/ESL/EAP programs in lieu of IELTS. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Carleton University — If you’ve studied in an English-medium institution for a few years, or provide other acceptable tests (TOEFL, CAEL, etc.), IELTS may not be required. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Okanagan College — Allows alternatives (TOEFL, Duolingo, etc.); sometimes high school English credentials from BC suffice. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Seneca College — IELTS not compulsory; alternative tests or completion of English programs may allow entrance. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
University of Guelph — Accepts alternatives to IELTS such as their English Language Certificate Program (ELCP), Duolingo, TOEFL, PTE etc. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
McGill University — If your prior education was in English, or you submit acceptable alternative English tests instead of IELTS. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Common Conditions & Waiver Criteria
At least 3-4 years of full-time study where the medium of instruction is English. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
Completion of a recognized English or academic-English/preparatory program. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Alternative test scores (TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, CAEL, CanTEST etc.) with required minimums. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Proof via transcripts, certificates showing past education in English medium. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Conditional acceptance, often pending successful completion of internal English course. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Tips Before Applying to Universities Without IELTS
Contact the international admissions office to confirm waiver rules — criteria vary by program and faculty.
Have your transcripts show that you studied in English and try to get a “medium-of-instruction” or “MOI” / institution certificate.
If taking an alternative test, meet or exceed minimum scores; older scores or subpar section scores may be rejected.
Check if you need to enroll (conditionally) in ESL/EAP/IELP; this may delay start but can ease entry.
Check deadlines, since programs with waivers may fill up or have special entry windows.
Conclusion
Canada offers many good university and college options for students who either can’t or prefer not to use IELTS. By using alternative tests, proving past education in English, or completing preparatory language programs, you still have multiple pathways into Canadian institutions. Always verify with each school’s current policy to avoid surprises.
Reminder: Policies on English language requirements can change any time. Always check the official admissions page of the university you want before applying.
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