Universities & Colleges with IELTS 5.5 Bands For Canada

Canada offers the best education facilities along with its natural beauty and diverse culture. While many students have fulfilled their dreams to Study in Canada at top colleges, others are still struggling to make their way to their dream destination. Students who cannot score desired band scores find IELTS as the only obstacle in their paths. Here is the list of IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada. This article will explore the possible options for students for IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada and above.

What is IELTS?

IELTS is an International English Language Test System that checks the English Language Proficiency of foreign nationals. IELTS is the most popular language test, and it is divided into four tasks: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. Candidates’ English proficiency is evaluated from 0-9 bands, with 0 as the lowest and 9 as the highest score.

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Traditionally, the IELTS Exam was only paper-based, but with the advance in technology IELTS online test is also available to international students. IELTS Online is a computer-based examination where candidates are required to attempt the test online.

There are two different types of IELTS Exams: IELTS Academic and IELTS General.

Students who intend to pursue higher education in foreign countries have to take IELTS academic, while others planning to work or settle abroad for permanent residency choose IELTS general.

Must Read: IELTS Exam Pattern – Detailed Guide

Canadian SDS IELTS Requirements Updated

• Canadian IELTS requirements According to IRCC, SDS will alter starting on August 10, 2023.
• IELTS test takers who are enrolled in the SDS program must now have an overall band score of 6.0 in order to be admitted.
• The decision to eliminate the individual score of 6.0 bands was made in order to highlight the importance of the test-taker’s overall ability.
• The most recent change to the IELTS requirements is meant to provide international students with more opportunities to finish their education in Canada.

List of IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada

• Charles Sturt University
• University of Alberta (Top Rated University)
• Brock University (Top Rated University)
• St. Clair College for Applied Arts and Technology
• Niagara College Canada, Welland Campus
• Canadore College
• Camosun College
• Lethbridge College
• Algonquin College
• Royal Roads University
• Concordia University (Top Rated University)
• Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Minimum Band Requirements for IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada

In the following table minimum band required for some of the Canadian Colleges have been listed.

Top Universities/Colleges	IELTS Score Required	Listening Test	Reading Test	Writing Test	Speaking Test
Camosun College	Average scores require is 6.0 and band below 5.5 is not acceptable	5.5	5.5	5.5	5.5
Athabasca University	Average scores required is 6.5 and band below 5.5 is not acceptable	5	5	5	5
University of Alberta	Average score of 6.5 and band below 5.5 is not acceptable	5.5	5.5	5.5	5.5
Lethbridge College	Average score of 6.0 and band below 5.5 is not acceptable	5.5	5.5	5.5	5.5
Huron University College	Average score of 6.5 and band below 5.5 is not acceptable	5	5	5	5
Brock University	Average score of 6.5 and band below 5.5 is not acceptable	5.5	5.5	5.5	5.5
MacEwan University	Average score of 6.5 and band below 5.5 is not acceptable	5.5	5.5	5.5	5.5
St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology	Average score of 6.0 and band below 5.5 is not acceptable	5.5	5.5	5.5	5.5

Know More: IELTS General or IELTS Academic – What are Major Differences?

Even though the colleges mentioned above provide admission at a band score as low as 5.5, your student visa application may likely be rejected by Canadian immigration if you have a low score.

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But, you can increase your chances of getting admission to your favourite college if you fulfill any of the requirements stated below:

Take CanTest:

Some colleges in Canada offer an optional test CanTEST if your score is below the minimum criteria.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Program:

Students who fail in CanTEST need to register in the ESL program at St.Clair College before starting their actual academic program.

Submit English Proficiency Language Certificate:

For students with IELTS 5.5 band, there is a different provision through which they can prove that English was the Medium Of Instruction for the course. They can ask the previous institute to issue a certificate declaring that English was MOI for the particular program. However, it is advisable to check with the University about their preference, whether they accept this certificate or not.

IELTS Band Minimum Requirements for Top Canadian Universities

IELTS scores are a key determinant of a student’s eligibility to enroll in a certain university. As a result, many people who desire to come to Canada would be interested in learning what minimal IELTS band is needed to enroll in the best Canadian institutions and universities. Most prestigious Canadian colleges need an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with at least 6 in each of the four areas. The minimum score required for all Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Diploma courses is this one. Additionally, the minimum IELTS band requirement for some engineering or other technical courses might be as high as 7.The minimal IELTS criteria for top Canadian institutions, in addition to the score above IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada, are listed below.

1) Toronto University

• According to THE World University Rankings 2023, the University of Toronto is ranked as the 21st top university in the world.
• For undergraduate courses, the institution needs a minimum band of 6.5.
• The University of Toronto requires a minimum IELTS score of 7 to enroll in postgraduate programs.

2) University of British Columbia

• THE globe University Rankings 2023 place the University of British Columbia at number forty in the globe.
• For undergraduate courses, the institution needs a minimum band of 6.5.
• The University of British Columbia demands a minimum grade of 7 for postgraduate courses. 

3) McGill University

• McGill University is ranked 46th among the best institutions in the world by THE World University Rankings 2023.
• Admission to undergraduate or graduate programs at McGill University requires an IELTS score of 6.5 or above.
• A minimum IELTS score of 7.5 is needed for some programs, such as the M.Sc. in Computer Science.

4) McMaster College

• According to THE World University Rankings 2023, McMaster University is one of the top 10 institutions in Canada and holds the 85th place worldwide.
• McMaster University demands a 6.5 band score for the majority of undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Some programs, including the MBA, M.A. in Economics, and M.Sc. in Computer Science, demand an IELTS score of at least 7. 

5) College of Alberta

• According to the 2023 THE World University Rankings, the University of Alberta is ranked 118th overall.
• For the majority of courses, the institution accepts an IELTS score of 7.
• A 6.5 IELTS band is necessary for some programmes, such Executive MBA.

Documents Required to Apply for Canada Student Visa

1. Valid Passport
2. Attested copies of all mark sheets and degree certificate
3. Proof Of Funds
4. English Proficiency Test results
5. Offer letter from the College/ University
6. Application Fees
7. Purpose Of Statement
8. Health Certificate

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IELTS Test Booking

With a high volume of students applying for Student Visa in different countries, it is quite challenging to get the IELTS test dates immediately. Therefore, we recommend that candidates should make their IELTS Test booking in advance. Book Your IELTS Test online on IDP’s official website.

Also, keep in mind that the test dates for the IELTS online test are easily available compared to the paper-based examination, and it also delivers results faster. So,if you are pro at using computers, then the IELTS online test is the best suitable option.

Important Note

Although most Canadian colleges’ minimum entry criteria start from IELTS 5.5 bands, Canada’s top universities sometimes require 7 bands and above for admission. Hence, it is always a good idea to prepare well before the examination to get an offer letter from a recognised college.

Know More: IELTS Preparation Tips: Determine Strengths and Weaknesses

Conclusion

Canada is a dream destination for many international students. Its high quality of life and excellent career opportunities have attracted immigrants from all over the world in the past few years. Indian students are no exception to this. However, many Indian students lack their English proficiency skills and often end up having low IELTS scores.

For these aspirants, finding a colleges in Canada that accepts low band scores may be stressful. But, there are some colleges in Canada that allow international students to study at a minimum band score.  We can give you consultation on your queries and questions about immigration.

So, if you are also looking for the right platform for your bright future, then our team can assist you in your journey to Canada. We will give you the proper guidance for your Canada Student Visa Process.

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