Canada has consistently ranked among the top destinations for international students due to its high-quality education system, multicultural society, and opportunities for post-study work and immigration. However, one common obstacle that deters many aspiring students is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) requirement. The good news is that in 2025, several universities and scholarship programs in Canada allow students to study without IELTS and even offer fully funded options to cover tuition, living expenses, and more.
This article will explore how international students can study in Canada without IELTS, the alternative language proof options, and the top fully funded scholarships they can apply for.
Why Study in Canada?
Before diving into how to bypass IELTS, it’s essential to understand why Canada is such a popular choice for higher education:
-
World-Class Education: Home to prestigious universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
-
Affordable Living: Compared to the US and UK, Canada offers relatively lower tuition fees and cost of living.
-
Post-Graduation Opportunities: With the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), students can work for up to three years after graduating.
-
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Canada’s Express Entry and provincial nominee programs favor international graduates.
Can You Study in Canada Without IELTS?
Yes! While IELTS is commonly accepted as a standard for English language proficiency, it is not the only option. Several Canadian institutions offer alternative ways to demonstrate English proficiency or waive the requirement altogether under specific conditions.
Alternatives to IELTS:
-
Other English Proficiency Tests:
-
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
-
Duolingo English Test (Accepted by over 100 Canadian institutions)
-
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
-
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment)
-
-
English-Medium Education Background:
If you have previously studied in an English-medium school or university (for at least 3-4 years), some Canadian universities may exempt you from IELTS. -
Institutional Language Assessments:
Some universities conduct their own language assessment interviews or online tests to gauge your proficiency. -
Pathway/ESL Programs:
Enroll in English language preparatory programs before starting your degree. After completing the program, you can progress to the main course without needing IELTS.
Top Universities in Canada That Waive IELTS
1. University of Winnipeg
-
Accepts Duolingo and TOEFL
-
IELTS can be waived for students from English-speaking countries or those with prior English instruction
2. Brock University
-
Offers IELTS waivers for students with three years of English-medium education
-
Accepts CAEL and PTE
3. Carleton University
-
IELTS not mandatory if the applicant has studied in English for more than three years
-
Offers language programs as an alternative
4. University of Regina
-
No IELTS required for students from specific countries or English-medium backgrounds
-
Accepts Duolingo, TOEFL, and other alternatives
5. Memorial University of Newfoundland
-
Provides conditional admission without IELTS
-
Offers in-house language programs
6. Concordia University
-
IELTS exemptions available for students who completed prior studies in English
-
Accepts TOEFL, Duolingo, and other recognized tests
Fully Funded Scholarships to Study in Canada Without IELTS
Now that we’ve established that IELTS is not mandatory, let’s explore fully funded scholarship opportunities available in 2025 that cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
Eligibility: PhD students from around the world
Coverage:
-
$50,000 CAD per year for three years
-
Open to students in health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities
IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory if alternative language proof is accepted by the host institution
How to Apply:
-
Secure nomination from a Canadian institution
-
Submit academic transcripts, research proposal, and proof of language proficiency as per university standards
2. University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Eligibility: Outstanding international undergraduate applicants
Coverage:
-
Full tuition
-
Books
-
Incidental fees
-
Full residence support for four years
IELTS Requirement: Waivers possible for English-medium students; Duolingo and TOEFL also accepted
How to Apply:
-
Get nominated by your high school
-
Apply to the University of Toronto and complete the scholarship application
3. University of Alberta Scholarships
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students
Coverage:
-
Full tuition
-
Monthly stipend (for graduate students)
-
Accommodation allowance
IELTS Requirement: Not required for students from designated English-speaking countries or those with English-medium education
Other Accepted Tests: Duolingo, TOEFL, CAEL
Notable Scholarships:
-
President’s International Distinction Scholarship
-
Graduate Entrance Scholarship
4. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
Eligibility: Exceptional international students with financial need
Coverage:
-
Full tuition
-
Living expenses
-
Renewable for four years
IELTS Requirement: Can be waived in some cases; other tests like TOEFL and Duolingo are accepted
Scholarship Categories:
-
Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award
-
Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
5. Government of Canada Scholarships – Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP)
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students from Latin America and the Caribbean
Coverage:
-
Full funding for short-term exchange (up to 6 months)
-
Living allowance
-
Travel support
IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory; institution-specific language proof accepted
Note: Ideal for students seeking exchange experiences without long-term commitments.
6. Mitacs Globalink Research Internship
Eligibility: Undergraduate students
Coverage:
-
12-week fully funded internship at a Canadian university
-
Stipend for accommodation, food, and travel
-
Professional development and research training
IELTS Requirement: Not required; communication skills assessed by host university or mentor
Fields: Science, engineering, mathematics, humanities, and social sciences
Tips to Secure Admission and Scholarships Without IELTS
-
Identify IELTS-Free Universities: Shortlist institutions that accept alternatives or waive language requirements based on your educational background.
-
Prepare Strong Documentation: Provide transcripts, recommendation letters, and a medium of instruction certificate if your previous education was in English.
-
Take Alternative Tests: If unsure about an IELTS waiver, take a cheaper and faster test like Duolingo English Test, which many Canadian universities accept.
-
Apply Early: Fully funded scholarships are highly competitive. Start your application 8–12 months before the program begins.
-
Research Specific Requirements: Each university and scholarship has unique guidelines. Visit official websites for up-to-date and accurate information.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Canada without IELTS is not only possible—it’s becoming more common in 2025, especially as universities seek to diversify their international student population. With many institutions accepting alternative English proficiency tests or waiving the requirement altogether, students from non-native English-speaking countries now have greater access than ever before.