Minimum IELTS & PTE Scores for Canada Study Visa from Nepal

For a Canadian student visa, you must score at least 6.0 in IELTS or 58 in PTE overall. These minimum English language requirements are set by the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) and Canadian universities.

The required score depends on the institution, program type, and level of study. Competitive or professional courses like Nursing, Engineering, or postgraduate research often demand higher scores than standard academic programs.

This guide outlines the minimum IELTS Academic and PTE Academic scores required for a Canadian study permit for various degree levels and program types.

What Is the Minimum IELTS Score for a Canadian Student Visa?

Most Canadian colleges and some universities accept a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with no band lower than 5.5. This is generally the minimum required to qualify for a study permit, especially for diploma or undergraduate-level programs.

The exact minimum score also depends on the university, program, and level of study. Highly ranked universities like the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and McGill University typically require 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0 for undergraduate courses, and even higher for postgraduate programs.

For regulated fields like Nursing, Medicine, Engineering, Education, or Law, institutions may ask for 7.0 or above to make sure the students meet professional and academic communication standards.

Minimum IELTS Score Breakdown by Skill

Canadian institutions also require minimum scores in each IELTS skill, not just the overall band. The table below reflects the minimums for study permit eligibility.

Note: Many universities and competitive programs require higher scores in one or more skills. Always check the program-specific requirements before applying.

IELTS Score Requirements by Level of Study

IELTS requirements in Canada vary by degree level (Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD) and the field of study. The higher the academic level or the more regulated the profession, the higher the expected score.

What IELTS Score Is Required for a Bachelor’s Degree in Canada?

Most universities require an IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0, for direct entry into undergraduate programs. Some colleges or diploma programs may accept a score of 6.0, but competitive universities often expect more.

Aiming higher than the minimum increases admission chances and provides more course and institution options.

What IELTS Score Is Required for a Master’s Degree in Canada?

An IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no band less than 6.0, is commonly required for most Master’s programs in Canada. Competitive fields like Business, Law, Engineering, and Data Science may require IELTS 7.0 or higher.

Since different courses may have varying score requirements, applicants should always check the specific program requirements.

What IELTS Score Is Required for a PhD in Canada?

The IELTS score required for a PhD in Canada typically ranges from 6.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the university and research focus. Research-intensive PhD programs may require a higher Writing band score because strong academic writing skills are essential for completing such doctoral studies.

What IELTS Score Is Required for Nursing in Canada?

For Nursing programs in Canada, an IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.5 or 7.0, is commonly required. These standards are set by provincial nursing regulatory bodies to make sure students can effectively communicate in critical healthcare environments.

What Is the Minimum PTE Score for Canada?

The minimum PTE Academic score for Canada is 58 to 65 overall, depending on the program level, institution, and field of study. Professional courses and competitive universities may set stricter benchmarks.

Colleges and some undergraduate programs may accept scores closer to 58, while universities and postgraduate programs expect scores closer to 65.

While IRCC does not issue a fixed PTE score requirement, students must meet the English language standards set by their chosen institution to qualify for a study permit.

PTE Score Requirements by Level of Study

PTE English requirements in Canada vary by the level of study (Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD) and the field of study. Higher scores are generally expected for graduate, research, professional, or strictly regulated courses like Nursing.

What PTE Score Is Required for a Bachelor’s Degree in Canada?

The PTE score required for a Bachelor’s degree in Canada typically ranges from 50 to 58 overall, with minimum skill scores of 50. Some diploma or pathway programs may accept such scores, but higher scores significantly improve admission chances.

What PTE Score Is Required for a Master’s Degree in Canada?

Master’s programs in Canada usually require a PTE Academic score of 60 to 65 overall, with no skill score below 50–55. Competitive programs in Business, Engineering, IT, or Law may require scores above 65.

What PTE Score Is Required for a PhD in Canada?

The PTE score required for a PhD in Canada generally ranges from 65 to 70 overall, depending on the institution and field of research. Research programs expect higher Writing scores due to academic research requirements.

What PTE Score Is Required for Nursing in Canada?

Nursing programs in Canada require a PTE Academic score of 65 overall, with no communicative skill below 65. The scores are higher to ensure proper communication skills in healthcare settings. They may also vary depending on the regulatory body and institution.

Minimum IELTS & PTE Scores by Study Level 

The tables below compare the typical minimum IELTS and PTE Academic scores accepted by Canadian institutions for study permits. Actual requirements may vary by university or program.

Minimum IELTS Scores for Canada Study Permit

Minimum PTE Scores for Canada Study Permit

Note: University-specific requirements may be higher than these minimums. Always verify details on the official program page.

Important Points to Remember

Does a good IELTS or PTE Score Guarantee a Canadian Student Visa?

A high IELTS or PTE Academic score alone does not guarantee approval of a Canadian study permit. While English proficiency is essential, the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) assesses your entire profile before granting a visa.

To be approved, applicants must meet all of the following:

• Hold a valid Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a designated Canadian institution.
• Show financial proof to cover tuition, living expenses, and return travel.
• Satisfy the Genuine Student requirement by demonstrating academic intent.
• Submit complete and accurate documents according to IRCC guidelines.

While the minimum IELTS score for Canada is typically 6.0 overall, higher scores improve both your academic profile and visa credibility. Remember, meeting the minimum score is only the first step. Achieving a higher score strengthens both your university application and study permit profile.