IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada in 2024

The Canadian economy is one of the most prosperous in the world, with opportunities for better education, health prospects, and a better standard of living. Those looking for an answer to the question, "Can I study in Canada with a 5.5 in IELTS?” can check out the universities and colleges mentioned below that accept IELTS 5.5.

These are the IELTS 5.5 Band universities in Canada –

• University of Alberta

• Concordia University

• Brock University

• University of Winnipeg

• Capilano University

• Kwantlen Polytechnic University

• Royal Roads University

• Charles Sturt University

These are the IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada –

• Algonquin College

• Canadore College

• Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology

• Lethbridge College

• St. Clair College for Applied Arts and Technology

• Camosun College

• Niagara College Canada, Welland Campus 

Below is a table that can give you an idea of ​​the overall average IELTS scores and scores on the sections required by the IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada. List of IELTS 5.5 Band Colleges in Canada

 To apply to colleges with IELTS 5.5 Bands for Canada, follow the procedure below.

Some universities or colleges require taking the CanTEST of students after entering college, mainly those who do not meet the minimum IELTS score to take English as a Second Language Program (ESL).

In case a student cannot pass the CanTEST, they must register for an ESL (English as a Language) program at St. Clair College of English before enrolling in postgraduate programs.

For students with an IELTS score of 5.5, there are conditions for students to prove their English language proficiency through documents or a certificate issued by a previous institution stating that the English language was MIA for the course. However, it is recommended that you apply for a course or certification with a university immediately before applying.

Below is the list of documents required to get admission to universities with IELTS 5.5 bands for Canada.

• Request form

• Resume

• Statement of purpose

• School certificates and college transcripts

• Health insurance

• Proof of bank statement

• Passport or permanent resident card

To obtain a study visa to Canada, you will need to have at least 5.5 in each of the four groups in IELTS and a total score of at least 6.0 and above for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Canada. Here are the requirements of the IELTS group for different programs in Canada:

• A minimum of 6.0 in each group and a total of 6.5 and above for graduate courses.

• General IELTS score of 7.0 and in each group for engineering, teaching, and learning courses.

The IELTS band minimum requirement for top Canadian universities is 6.5, with no sub-section falling below 6.0. However, specific requirements can vary, especially for English and linguistic courses where a higher proficiency may be expected. Below are the minimum IELTS band requirements for the top 10 universities in Canada:

• University of Toronto (QS World Rank - 21)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each section, is required to get admission to the University of Toronto.

• McGill University (QS World Rank - 30)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each section is required to get admission to McGill University.

• University of British Columbia (QS World Rank - 34)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each section, is required to gain admission to the University of British Columbia.

• University of Waterloo (QS World Rank - 112)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.5 in writing, 6.5 in speaking, 6.0 in reading, and 6.0 in listening, is required to get admission to the University of Waterloo.

• Western University (QS World Rank - 114)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each section is required to get admission to Western University.

• University of Calgary (QS World Rank - 182)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall to get admission to the University of Calgary.

• McMaster University (QS World Rank: 189)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each section is required to get admission to McMaster University.

• University of Ottawa (QS World Rank: 203)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.5 in the writing section is required to get admission to the University of Ottawa.

• Queen’s University (QS World Rank - 209)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each section is required to get admission to Queen’s University.

• Dalhousie University (QS World Rank - 298)

The minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each section is required to get admission to Dalhousie University.

Understanding the IELTS score requirements is crucial for a successful application. Here is a comprehensive guide to the IELTS scores needed for Canada student visa and immigration.

Most Canadian universities require international students to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardised tests, with the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) being one of the most widely accepted.

Typically, an overall minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required for admission to universities in Canada. Moreover, each sub-section (listening, reading, writing, and speaking) should have a minimum score of 6.0. Additionally, universities might demand a higher IELTS score for programs such as English and linguistic studies, reflecting the advanced language proficiency expected in these disciplines.

For those considering immigration through the Express Entry system, language proficiency is a crucial factor. The IELTS score contributes to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. A good IELTS score significantly enhances your CRS points.

However, meeting the minimum language proficiency requirement (CLB 7) is essential for eligibility. Below, you can check the CLB level according to your IELTS Score.

In conclusion, study abroad aspirants who get the 5.5 band score must be aware that various universities in Canada accept the IELTS 5.5. Above, we have covered the list of colleges in Canada that accept IELTS 5.5 band scores, along with how to get admission to these colleges and what documents are required for it.

We hope you enjoyed learning about the IELTS Band Minimum Requirements for Top Canadian Universities. Knowing about these universities or colleges is important if you also have the same band score. Now, you can choose any college from the list of colleges in Canada accepting 5.5 bands and make your dream of studying in Canada come true. If you would like to get a deeper insight into how to study in Canada, we encourage you to have a word with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your journey to study abroad. Get help with the application process, SOPs, and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling, or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011. 

Q1. Is 5.5 in one module acceptable in Canada in 2024?

Ans. Yes, IELTS 5.5 bands are accepted by most Canadian colleges. However, the minimal prerequisites are primarily determined by your course. If you want to enrol in advanced classes, this band score might not be sufficient.

Q2. In Canada, which colleges accept IELTS 5.5?

Ans. For students who earned 5.5 bands on the IELTS exam, St. Clair College for Applied Arts and Technology, Niagara College Canada, and Brock University are viable options for further education.

Q3. Can I obtain a Canadian visa on a 5.5 band?

Ans. With a 5.5 band score in one module, obtaining a student visa for Canada is feasible. However, not all universities and colleges recognise this band score as a prerequisite for enrollment. It is, therefore, advisable to verify directly with the organisation.

Q4. Is 5.5 accepted in one module in Canada?

Ans. You can study in Canada if you receive a 5.5 on one or more IELTS test sections, but not all of them. Most colleges require a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5 or 6. Nevertheless, it is possible that one of the IELTS portions yielded a score of 5.5.

Q5. What is the minimal IELTS score needed to immigrate to Canada in 2024?

Ans. Candidates must have at least an IELTS score of 6 per band or a CLB level 7 to be eligible for Canada's Express Entry program for a Canada PR visa.