Study in Canada Without IELTS from Nigeria: Everything You Need to Know

Many Nigerian students dream of studying in Canada but are held back by the stress, cost, and pressure of taking the IELTS exam. What if you could secure admission without IELTS? The good news is that it’s possible, and this post will show you how.

Canadian universities are flexible with English proficiency requirements. While IELTS is the most popular option, several schools accept alternatives or even offer waivers under certain conditions. This opens the door to studying in Canada for many Nigerian students who either can’t afford the test or feel unprepared for it.

1. English Test Alternatives That Work

If you want to avoid IELTS, you can take other English tests that are equally accepted by Canadian institutions. Many schools in Canada accept the TOEFL iBT, which is a computer-based English test. Some universities will accept Duolingo English Test, which can be taken online from home and costs far less. Others approve of the PTE Academic test, the Cambridge English exams such as C1 Advanced, and the CAEL assessment which is made specifically for Canadian institutions.

Each university sets its own minimum score for these tests, so it’s important to check directly with the school you are applying to. But the bottom line is, if IELTS isn’t for you, there are other doors you can walk through.

2. Canadian Universities Where IELTS Is Not a Must

A number of universities in Canada don’t insist on IELTS if you meet certain other conditions. The University of Winnipeg accepts Duolingo, TOEFL, and CAEL scores, and even offers its own in-house English Language Program if you don’t have any of the tests. The University of Saskatchewan also allows other English tests and even offers conditional admission with language training. Brock University is another school where you don’t need IELTS if you have other acceptable scores or if your previous education was in English. Memorial University of Newfoundland also accepts students without IELTS, provided they meet specific conditions. Cambrian College is among the institutions offering various English test options, and it’s known for being welcoming to international students.

3. Conditions That Can Get You an IELTS Waiver

If you studied in a school where English was the language of instruction, you may be able to get an English proficiency waiver. Some universities waive IELTS if you completed your previous education in English, or if you studied for a certain number of years in an English-speaking country. For example, if you attended secondary school or earned a diploma or degree in an institution that taught in English, you can often bypass the test. Some universities, like Concordia, may not require IELTS if you studied in English for at least three years.

4. How to Apply to a Canadian School Without IELTS

Start by researching universities that don’t make IELTS mandatory. Once you find a school that accepts other English tests or gives waivers, gather your academic documents such as transcripts, certificates, and identification. Prepare any required alternative English test scores or waiver request letters, if applicable. Write a strong personal statement and get your recommendation letters ready.

Submit your online application to the school. Once you get your admission letter, begin the process of applying for a Canadian study permit. Immigration authorities will ask for your letter of admission, proof of funds, and a valid international passport. They may also ask how you plan to manage language barriers, so make sure to mention any previous education you’ve had in English.

5. Getting Scholarships Without IELTS

Canadian universities offer scholarships to Nigerian and other international students. These scholarships can be based on academic performance, financial need, or extracurricular involvement. Some scholarships are tied to your admission, meaning once you’re accepted, you are automatically considered. Others require a separate application. Not all scholarships demand IELTS. As long as you meet the academic or other specified requirements, you can apply with your alternative test scores or waiver.

ALSO READ: Best scholarships for Nigerian students without IELTS