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 an English as a Second Language program or an unapproved English for Academic Purposes program.

English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

Enrolling in the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program at our English Language Centre (ELC). In collaboration with university departments and faculties, the ELC delivers a high-quality, focused English program for you to be able to seamlessly enter your undergraduate program of choice at the university. The ELC curriculum will place you in relevant language-learning contexts and real-life situations, and will provide you with opportunities to develop the skills needed to succeed in post-secondary education and in a multicultural world. Learn more about the ELC.

English test

Achieving the required proficiency on one of the following English tests:

• 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).
  
  • Acceptance of this test is effective for the January 2025 intake onward - use code OTU10
• 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.