Studying in Canada is a dream for many students because of its high-quality education, safe environment, and excellent job opportunities.
But a common question keeps coming up:
“Can I study in Canada without IELTS?”
“Is it possible to get admission or a visa without taking English tests?”
The answer is YES — you can study in Canada without IELTS, and thousands of students do it every year.
This guide explains how to get admission, which universities accept you, what alternative tests you can take, and how visa officers evaluate your file.
1. Can You Study in Canada Without IELTS?
Yes, many Canadian universities and colleges allow international students to study without IELTS.
You can get admission using:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
- Duolingo English Test
- PTE or TOEFL
- University internal English tests
Some institutions even waive English tests completely if you meet specific conditions.
2. How to Study in Canada Without IELTS: 4 Approved Alternatives
1. Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
If your previous education was taught fully in English, many universities accept an MOI certificate issued by your school/college.
Universities Accepting MOI
- University of Winnipeg
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Brandon University
- Concordia University (case-by-case)
Tip:
Request your school to print MOI on official letterhead with principal or registrar signature.
2. Duolingo English Test
Duolingo is widely accepted and easier than IELTS.
Why Students Prefer Duolingo
- Test from home
- Results in 48 hours
- Low cost (only $59)
- Accepted in 200+ Canadian institutions
Examples of Universities Accepting Duolingo
- University of Calgary
- University of Saskatchewan
- Thompson Rivers University
- Algoma University
3. PTE, TOEFL, CAEL
Some universities allow alternatives like:
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- CAEL
- CELPIP (for immigration programs)
These tests are easier for some students compared to IELTS.
4. University Internal Tests
Many colleges conduct their own English placement test after admission.
Examples:
- Seneca College
- Centennial College
- Fanshawe College
If you pass the internal test, no external English exam is needed.
3. List of Universities in Canada That Don’t Require IELTS
Here is a curated list with cost and acceptance flexibility:
| University | Accepts MOI | Accepts Duolingo | Tuition (Approx/Year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Winnipeg | Yes | Yes | $14,000+ |
| Memorial University | Yes | Yes | $11,000+ |
| Brock University | Case-by-case | Yes | $18,000+ |
| University of Regina | No | Yes | $15,000+ |
| Concordia University | Yes (case) | Yes | $22,000+ |
| Thompson Rivers University | No | Yes | $16,000+ |
| Algoma University | Yes | Yes | $15,000+ |
| Cambrian College | Yes | Yes | $13,000+ |
Note: Always check the latest updates on their official website.
4. Canada Study Visa Without IELTS — Is It Possible?
Yes, you can get a visa without IELTS, but you must show strong proof of English proficiency, such as:
- MOI certificate
- Duolingo, TOEFL, or PTE
- University acceptance letter
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your English background
Visa officer must be convinced that you can study in an English-speaking environment.
High success cases
- Students with strong MOI
- Students with Duolingo 110+
- Students who studied English for 10+ years
5. Step-by-Step Admission Process
Step 1: Choose a university that accepts MOI or alternatives
Step 2: Prepare your documents
- Passport
- MOI
- Academic transcripts
- Resume
- SOP
- Letter of recommendation
Step 3: Apply online
Each university has its portal.
Step 4: Take alternative English test if needed
Duolingo / PTE / university internal test.
Step 5: Receive offer letter
Conditional or unconditional.
Step 6: Apply for Canada study visa (SDS or Non-SDS)
6. Required Documents
| Document | Required |
|---|---|
| Passport | Yes |
| MOI or English test | Yes |
| Transcripts | Yes |
| SOP | Yes |
| GIC Proof | Yes |
| Medical | Yes |
| Offer Letter | Yes |
7. Pros and Cons of Studying in Canada Without IELTS
Pros
- Saves time & money
- Easier admission
- More options like MOI or Duolingo
Cons
- Some universities may still ask for English proof
- Visa officer may request stronger justification
8. Cost of Studying in Canada
| Expense | Cost (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| Rent | $400–$800 |
| Food | $200–$300 |
| Transportation | $80–$120 |
| Phone & Internet | $40–$60 |
| Miscellaneous | $100–$150 |
9. FAQs
1. Can I study in Canada without IELTS?
Yes — using MOI, Duolingo, PTE, etc.
2. Can I get a study visa without IELTS?
Yes, if your English skills are proven.
3. Is Duolingo accepted in Canada?
Yes, in 200+ institutions.
4. Which is the easiest way?
MOI + Duolingo combination.
5. Is MOI enough?
Some universities accept it fully; others combine it with interviews.
FEATURED SNIPPET OPTIMIZATION
Short Definition
Studying in Canada without IELTS means you can get admission using MOI, Duolingo, PTE, TOEFL, or university internal tests instead of IELTS.
Numbered Steps for Snippet
-
Select a university that accepts MOI or alternatives
-
Prepare documents
-
Apply online
-
Take Duolingo/PTE if required
-
Receive offer letter
-
Apply for study visa
Pros & Cons Summary Box
Pros: Cheaper, easier admission, multiple alternatives
Cons: Visa scrutiny, limited universities
Quick Answer Box
Yes, you can study in Canada without IELTS using MOI, Duolingo, PTE, TOEFL, or university internal tests. Many universities accept these alternatives and visas are approved if English proficiency is proven.
Read More: Cheapest Countries to Study in Europe
