How Can I Move to Canada from Nigeria without the IELTS?
It is possible to move to Canada from Nigeria without the IELTS test, but it depends on which Canadian visa program you apply for.
Currently, immigration policy in Canada is much more relaxed than in other countries. The Canadian government is looking forward to timely replenishing skilled human resources and this number will increase a lot in the coming time. Skilled immigration programs in Canada have never been easier than they are now and are receiving strong support from the Canadian government’s immigration policy change.
Find out immediately Canadian immigration does not require IELTS.
Table of Contents
What Is the IELTS?
The IELTS or International English Language Testing System is an evaluation test of English language proficiency that is authorized for use by the Canadian government for immigration purposes (Canada uses the IELTS General Training Exam).
The IELTS exam is also used by many other English-speaking countries for evaluating immigration applicants as well as by many universities when considering international students for admission.
The IELTS test consists of 4 sections on which you are given scores separately for:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
The scores are from 1 to 9, 1 being the lowest and 9 the highest. The average in each section will add up to the overall score.
How to Immigrate to Canada from Nigeria without the IELTS
Look for Universities in Canada that Don’t Require the IELTS
If you are planning to study in Canada, as a starting point for your immigration, and don’t want to pass the IELTS exam, then, look for universities that do not require the IELTS exam score for admission.
Keep in mind, that no matter which university you choose to get into, you will still need to provide an English proficiency certification. You may need to pass other tests, that are acceptable as an English language proficiency proof, such as the:
- TOEFL
- Pearson Test of English (Academic)
Here is a list of universities in Canada that accept alternative English language proof to the IELTS:
- University of Winnipeg
- Carleton University
- University of Saskatchewan
- Brandon University
- Okanagan University
- The Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Cambrian University
- Brock University
- University of Regina
Get the English Proficiency Certificate
In order to receive this certificate, you will first need to choose the university where you would like to complete your studies in Canada.
Once you make that decision, be sure to check which type of English proficiency tests the school requires you to pass, take the test and obtain the relevant English proficiency certificate.
Each exam will test your knowledge and abilities in English, such as writing, reading, listening, and speaking.
Canada Visitor Visa
Another way of entering Canada from Nigeria without IELTS test scores is via the Visitor Visa – this could be for the purpose of tourism or business. For this type of Temporary Resident Visa to Canada, you will not need to pass the IELTS test, nor provide any English language proficiency certification.
One drawback is that the Visitor Visa is for a short stay in Canada (for example, up to six months per year). The exceptions include Visitor Visas for international students and temporary foreign workers, which are usually issued for a longer period (such as the duration of the study program or work contract).
Apply for a Canada Work Permit
This is another type of Canadian visa for which you won’t need to pass the IELTS test and can substitute the IETLS exam with other language proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, for example. If you are approved for a Canadian Work Permit, you will also generally be issued a Temporary Resident Visa.
Canadian Scholarships Visa
The Canadian Scholarship Visa is a type of visa issued by the Canadian government to international students who have been awarded a scholarship to study at designated universities or colleges in Canada. This type of visa allows international students to study in Canada and take advantage of the educational opportunities available there. The Canadian government, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), reviews each application for a scholarship visa on its own merit.
You do not need to have the IELTS for the Canadian Scholarship Visa. However, it is important to note that although having IELTS test results is not a requirement for the scholarship program, there are a number of colleges and universities in Canada that may require proof of English language proficiency as part of their admission requirements.
If this is the case, then applicants will need to provide valid scores from tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL in order to be admitted into their chosen institution.
Sponsorship for the Family Class
Family members of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who are sponsored for immigration to Canada do not need to take the IELTS exam.
If a skilled foreign worker is applying for immigration to Canada through a points-based program, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program, and wants to receive points for the English language skills of a spouse or partner, then that spouse or partner will need to take the IELTS test (or another authorized exam) to prove his or her English language level.
Study Permit in Canada without the IETLS
There is a way of obtaining a Study Permit to Canada without any type of English proficiency certificate, and that’s only possible if your undergraduate degree studies or studies prior for the admission to the university were already in English, or in an English-speaking country.
Thus, if you studied in Canada prior to applying to the university’s admissions in Canada, you might be able to check off the list the requirement for the IELTS test.
Language Proficiency Certificate
Are you wondering, where you can obtain your IELTS language proficiency certificate?
You can learn about IELTS test centers in Nigeria, test dates, test fees and more at:
https://www.britishcouncil.org.ng/exam/ielts/dates-fees-locations
Conclusion
Proving your English languages abilities is one of the requirements for a Canadian visa if your purpose for entering Canada is immigration as a skilled foreign worker or in some other cases; however, there are many situations in which the IELTS and/or English language evaluation is not necessary.
Some believe that the IETLS test is difficult to pass, however, with proper preparation for the test, you should be able to successfully pass it with the score that is required to obtain the Canadian visa.
Do you already know which Canadian visa program(s) you are able to apply for?
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Discover Frequently Asked Questions from Our Support
Is Canada immigration possible without the IELTS?
Yes, it is possible to immigrate to Canada without the IELTS. It will depend on the type of Canadian visa program you are applying for. There are various options to enter Canada without the need of the IETLS scores, such as through Family Sponsorship. Furthermore, French-speakers who want to immigrate to Canada as skilled foreign workers can prove their French language skills by taking the TEF – Canada Exam or the TCF – Canada Exam.
Can a Nigerian study in Canada without the IELTS?
Yes; choose universities in Canada that do not require IETLS scores. There are several universities in Canada that ask for alternative test exams, which for some people are easier to pass than the IETLS test.
Which Canada visa does not require the IELTS?
The Canadian Tourist Visa doesn’t require IETLS test scores. People who usually apply for this visa enter Canada either for tourism or business purposes. Family members who are being sponsored for immigration to Canada by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident do not need to provide IELTS scores.
Which part of Canada does not require IELTS?
In Quebec, French is the main language used, so you may need to take the Test d’evaluation de français (TEF) to prove your French language proficiency. If you apply for the Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program and want to get points for your English language abilities, then you may need to take the IELTS Exam.
