English language proficiency requirements
If you are from a country where English is not the first language of instruction, you must demonstrate English proficiency to be eligible for admission. You can demonstrate proficiency with one of the following:
Formal full-time study in English
Successfully completing at least three years of formal, full-time study (no less than three academic level courses per semester) at a secondary or post-secondary institution where the language of instruction and examination is English. The minimum three-year requirement does not include time enrolled in
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
Through our partnership with Oxford International Digital Institute (OIDI) you can enrol in their online EAP program. Their English for university preparation courses have been designed to help you improve your level of English proficiency to match the language requirements of Ontario Tech. You will cover the main building blocks of language such as grammar and vocabulary as well as develop reading, listening, speaking, writing and mediation skills in English. Register for their next intake cycle through our unique partner page.
English test
Ontario Tech will accept the following English tests with the minimum scores listed. Please note that the test date must be within two years of the desired start date and results must be sent to Ontario Tech Admissions directly from the provider unless they can be verified online.
- Cambridge English - Advanced: Minimum score of 180 with no band lower than 170.
- Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): Minimum score of 70 with no sub-score below 60.
- Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 120 (Education and Nursing programs require a total score of 130).
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Overall score of 6.5 with no sub-score less than 6.0 (Education and Nursing programs require an overall score of 7.0).
- Oxford ELLT (Digital or Global): Minimum score of 7 (Education and Nursing programs require a score of 8).
- Register through our link above and use code "OTU10" for 10 per cent off.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Minimum score of 58.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Internet-based test (iBT) with a total score of 83 (Education and Nursing programs require a total score of 87), and minimum scaled scores of Listening: 20; Reading: 20; Speaking: 19; and Writing: 20. The university's TOEFL code is 7178. TOEFL iBT Home Edition results are also considered acceptable. Paper-delivered test results will be reviewed on an individual basis.
Additional options
- Applicants who are following the IB curriculum can satisfy their English language proficiency (ELP) requirements by presenting an IB certificate or diploma with a minimum grade of 4 in IB English A.
- Enrolling in an EAP program with one of our partner institutions. Learn more about EAP partners.