Is TOEFL iBT® Score Accepted in Canada? Top Universities & Minimum Requirements

"Is TOEFL Score Accepted in Canada? Well, yes! Top universities like the University of Toronto and McGill University require TOEFL scores ranging from 80 to 100. Get insights into minimum section-wise TOEFL requirements and other admission criteria."
Key Highlights
If you're wondering whether TOEFL scores are accepted in Canada, the answer is a resounding 'yes'! Top Canadian universities, such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia, recognise TOEFL as proof of English proficiency for international students. Each institution has its own specific minimum score requirements for different TOEFL sections. So, lets explore the TOEFL score expectations at some of Canada’s top universities, helping you understand what is needed to meet admission criteria.
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Minimum TOEFL Score Requirement for Canada
The minimum TOEFL score requirements for international students aspiring to study in Canada range from an overall score of 80 to 100, with specific section-wise scores as follows:
Section |
Average Minimum Score |
Overall score |
80-100 |
Reading |
18-23 |
Listening |
17-21 |
Speaking |
20-24 |
Writing |
17-23 |
Check out - Minimum TOEFL iBT® Score for Canada Student Visa
TOEFL Score Requirement for Top 10 Universities in Canada
Here is the section-wise breakdown of TOEFL score requirements for top Canadian universities to help you understand the minimum scores needed for reading, listening, speaking, and writing:
University Name |
Overall TOEFL Score |
Reading |
Listening |
Speaking |
Writing |
University of Toronto |
89 |
22 |
22 |
22 |
22 |
McGill University |
86 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
University of British Columbia |
90 |
22 |
22 |
21 |
21 |
University of Alberta |
100 |
22 |
22 |
22 |
22 |
University of Waterloo |
90 |
- |
- |
25 |
25 |
Western University |
86 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
McMaster University |
86 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
University of Ottawa |
86 |
- |
- |
- |
22 |
Queen's University |
88 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
University of Calgary |
97 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
20 |
Also Check: MS Colleges & Universities Abroad Accepting TOEFL iBT® Scores in 2025
Admission Requirements of Universities in Canada Accepting TOEFL
When applying for admission to Canadian universities, international students must meet several key requirements:
1. Academic Requirements:
- High School Graduation or Equivalent: Any undergraduate course would need a high school diploma or any equivalent qualification recognised by the institutions of Canada.
- Graduation: You would require a bachelor's degree accepted along with a minimum GPA which varies according to universities for postgraduate courses.
2. Language Proficiency:
- TOEFL Scores: Minimum TOEFL score of 85.
3. Standardised Test Scores:
- GMAT/ GRE: You will have to provide the test scores for Graduate Management Admission Test. This would especially be required in case of courses like business, usually an MBA or some engineering fields. The exact score will vary with each program.
4. Statement of Purpose:
- Personal Essay: A good SOP or personal essay describing one's interests, career goals, and reasons for opting for the chosen program and university in Canada.
5.Letters of Recommendation:
- Academic References: 2-3 teachers or professors from core subjects who can prove your academic prowess and competence would meet most programs' entering requirements.
6. Transcripts:
- Official Academic Records: Official records of school or transcripts of marks from any attended institution – original language with English or French translation.
7. Proof of Funds:
Evidence of holding the requisite financing toward your education and living expenses while studying in the country should be available; these may include bank statements, scholarship letters of award, or any other kind of financial supportive documents.
8. Passport and Visa:
- Valid Passport: You would require a valid passport throughout your sojourn for your study.
9. Admission Letter:
Upon Admission, you will need to apply for a study permit which authorizes you to travel to and study in Canada.
10. Medical Examination:
Medical Clearance: Some country applicants will need a medical exam before entering Canada, so that you will be declared admissible in terms of health.
We hope this information on TOEFL requirements for top universities in Canada has been helpful. Good luck with your application, and we wish you all the best in your academic journey!
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