Canada has become one of the top destinations for international students due to its world-class education system, diverse culture, and welcoming immigration policies. Every year, thousands of students from around the globe choose Canada for their higher studies because of its academic excellence, research opportunities, and globally recognized degrees. However, one of the major challenges that many international applicants face is the IELTS requirement for admission.
The good news is that many Canadian universities now allow students to apply without IELTS, offering alternative ways to prove English proficiency. Moreover, several fully funded and partially funded scholarships are available for those who want to study in Canada without the burden of IELTS scores.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to study in Canada without IELTS, the universities that accept alternative options, and the top scholarships you can apply for in 2025.
1. Why Study in Canada?
Before exploring scholarships and admission options, it’s important to understand why Canada continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for international students.
-
World-Class Education: Canada is home to some of the best universities globally, such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
-
Affordable Education: Compared to other English-speaking countries like the U.S. or the U.K., Canadian education is more affordable, and there are many scholarship opportunities available.
-
Multicultural Environment: Canada embraces diversity, allowing students from all backgrounds to feel welcome.
-
Post-Study Work Opportunities: Graduates can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada after completing their studies.
-
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Canada provides clear immigration pathways for international graduates to become permanent residents.
2. How to Study in Canada Without IELTS
Many students worry that not having an IELTS score will reduce their chances of admission. However, several Canadian universities now offer alternatives to IELTS for demonstrating English proficiency.
Here are the main ways to study in Canada without IELTS:
-
Proof of Previous Education in English:
If you completed your previous degree (school, college, or university) in English, you can request a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your institution stating that all your courses were conducted in English. -
Alternative English Tests:
Universities in Canada accept several other English proficiency exams such as:-
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
-
Duolingo English Test
-
PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)
-
Cambridge English Tests (C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency)
-
-
University-Administered English Programs:
Some universities allow international students to enroll in an English Language Pathway Program before starting their degree if they do not meet the English requirement. -
Exemption for Specific Nationalities:
Students from English-speaking countries or regions are automatically exempted from IELTS requirements in many Canadian universities.
3. Top Canadian Universities That Don’t Require IELTS
Here are some well-known universities in Canada that offer admission without IELTS if applicants meet alternative English proficiency criteria:
-
University of Winnipeg – Accepts proof of English-medium education or Duolingo.
-
Brock University – Accepts alternatives such as TOEFL, Duolingo, or a previous degree in English.
-
University of Saskatchewan – Offers conditional admission with an English language course instead of IELTS.
-
Concordia University – Accepts students who have completed previous studies in English or have passed other approved language tests.
-
Carleton University – Accepts proof of previous English education and other English tests.
-
Memorial University of Newfoundland – Grants exemption for students with proof of English proficiency through education background.
-
University of Regina – Offers options for students to meet the language requirement through English-medium education or alternative tests.
These universities have flexible language policies, ensuring that students are not restricted solely by IELTS results.
4. Scholarships in Canada Without IELTS (2025)
Canada offers numerous scholarships for international students, many of which do not require IELTS. Below are the top scholarships you can apply for in 2025 if you want to study in Canada without IELTS.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Fully Funded)
The Vanier CGS program is one of Canada’s most prestigious scholarships for doctoral students. It is open to both Canadian and international applicants pursuing PhD programs at top Canadian universities.
Eligibility:
-
Strong academic record and leadership qualities.
-
Proof of English proficiency can be demonstrated through other recognized certificates or English-medium education.
Benefits:
-
CAD $50,000 per year for up to three years.
-
Covers tuition fees, living costs, and research expenses.
2. University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarships
The University of Saskatchewan offers various scholarships for international students enrolled in master’s or PhD programs. IELTS is not mandatory if you can show evidence of previous English-medium education.
Benefits:
-
Full or partial tuition coverage.
-
Monthly living stipend.
-
Research funding and academic support.
3. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto.
Eligibility:
-
Demonstrated leadership and academic excellence.
-
English requirement can be met through alternate certificates or a letter from the previous institution.
Benefits:
-
Full tuition, books, and living expenses.
-
Residence support for four years.
4. University of Winnipeg President’s Scholarship for World Leaders
The University of Winnipeg offers scholarships to exceptional students entering any undergraduate or postgraduate program. The university accepts Duolingo and other English alternatives instead of IELTS.
Benefits:
-
Partial tuition coverage (ranging from CAD $3,500 to CAD $5,000).
-
Open to international students with leadership experience.
5. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Major Entrance Scholarship
UBC provides fully funded scholarships for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
IELTS Alternative:
Applicants can present proof of English-medium education or submit Duolingo/TOEFL results.
Benefits:
-
Full tuition fee waiver.
-
Annual living allowance.
-
Renewable for the duration of the study program.
6. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships
Carleton University offers merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. IELTS is not mandatory for those who completed education in English.
Benefits:
-
Up to CAD $16,000 in financial support.
-
Renewable based on academic performance.
7. Concordia University International Excellence Scholarship
Concordia University welcomes applications from international students for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. IELTS can be waived with an English-medium education certificate.
Benefits:
-
Tuition fee reduction or full coverage.
-
Annual living stipend for selected students.
8. York University International Student Scholarship Program
York University in Toronto offers generous funding opportunities for outstanding international students.
IELTS Alternative:
Proof of previous study in English or other language certifications.
Benefits:
-
Ranges from CAD $20,000 to CAD $35,000 per year.
-
Renewable for up to four years.
9. McGill University Entrance Scholarships
McGill University provides scholarships for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate programs. Applicants can demonstrate English proficiency through prior education in English.
Benefits:
-
Partial or full tuition support.
-
Research opportunities and campus housing support.
10. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
The University of Manitoba offers scholarships for both master’s and doctoral students. IELTS is not a strict requirement if students can present other language credentials.
Benefits:
-
Up to CAD $28,000 per year.
-
Financial support for research and living expenses.
5. How to Strengthen Your Scholarship Application
To improve your chances of securing admission and scholarships in Canada without IELTS, follow these essential tips:
-
Provide a Strong Medium of Instruction Certificate (MOI): Clearly state that your previous education was fully conducted in English.
-
Write a Compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP): Highlight your academic achievements, goals, and motivation for studying in Canada.
-
Submit Excellent Recommendation Letters: Choose referees who know your academic and leadership abilities well.
-
Apply Early: Most Canadian universities have competitive deadlines; applying early improves your chances.
-
Prepare for Interviews: Some universities may conduct online interviews to assess your English communication skills.
6. Conclusion
Studying in Canada without IELTS is entirely possible in 2025. With more universities recognizing alternative proofs of English proficiency, the path to Canadian education has become more accessible than ever.
By applying for the scholarships listed above, international students can enjoy world-class education, fully funded opportunities, and global exposure — without the financial and logistical burden of the IELTS test.
Canada’s commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence continues to attract ambitious students worldwide. Whether through a fully funded program like Vanier CGS or a university-specific scholarship like UBC’s International Major Entrance Award, you can build a bright academic future in Canada — no IELTS required.