IELTS score required for Canada visa

Minimum IELTS Score Required for Canada Study Permit and Express Entry

Are you considering studying in Canada or applying for Canadian immigration through the Express Entry system? One crucial factor you need to keep in mind is your International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score. The IELTS score is a significant determinant of your eligibility for a Canada Study Permit and can also play a pivotal role in your Express Entry application. In this guide, we’ll explore the minimum IELTS score required for Canada Study Permit and Express Entry, helping you understand the essential benchmarks you need to meet.

Understanding the IELTS Exam

Before diving into the specific score requirements, let’s briefly review what the IELTS exam is all about. The IELTS exam assesses your English language proficiency in four key areas: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each of these sections is scored on a scale of 0 to 9, and your overall IELTS score is the average of these four individual scores. Canadian immigration authorities and educational institutions often require a specific minimum score in each section, along with an overall minimum score.

Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Study Permit

If you plan to pursue higher education in Canada, you will typically need to obtain a Canada Study Permit. To be eligible for this permit, you must meet the language requirements set by your chosen Canadian educational institution. These requirements may vary from one institution to another, but they generally fall within the range of a 5.0 to 7.0 band score in each of the four IELTS sections.

However, keep in mind that more competitive programs and institutions often have higher IELTS score requirements. It’s crucial to check the specific language proficiency requirements of your desired program and institution before applying for a Canada Study Permit.

Minimum IELTS Score for Express Entry

For individuals interested in immigrating to Canada through the Express Entry system, the IELTS score plays a crucial role in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS is a points-based system that assesses your eligibility for Express Entry based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

To maximize your CRS score and improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence, it’s essential to achieve a high IELTS score. The minimum IELTS score required for Express Entry varies depending on the specific program you’re applying for, but generally, you should aim for a CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) level of 7 or higher in all four language skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking). If you based in Nigeria, and worried about where to get the best IELTS coaching, I will suggest you contact Baccalaureate Travel Consult and book for physical classes or remote classes.

Achieving a higher IELTS score in Express Entry can significantly boost your CRS score and increase your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada.


In conclusion, the minimum IELTS score required for a Canada Study Permit and Express Entry varies depending on your specific goals and the institution or program you are applying to. It’s essential to research and prepare adequately to meet these score requirements and increase your chances of studying or immigrating to Canada successfully. By achieving the required IELTS score, you can embark on an exciting journey to Canada and take advantage of its excellent educational opportunities and quality of life.

Remember that language proficiency is just one aspect of the application process, and it’s essential to meet all other eligibility criteria as well. Stay informed and well-prepared to make your dream of living and studying in Canada a reality.


Having further enquiry on Canada Visa Requirements? Get in touch with us or visit our physical office at Ikeja or Ipaja. You can also contact us on +234 80 2205 5408 (Shogunle Branch) or +234 90 1655 5078 (Ipaja Branch). To know more about us, check our website www.baccalaureateng.com

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