• TOEFL

A Guide to Minimum TOEFL Score for Canada Student Visa

2875 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Feb 12,2024 11:26 AM IST

TOEFL is a standardized and widely accepted measure of English proficiency. Almost all Canadian universities accept TOEFL as a standardized English language assessment test making it an important part of the Canada student visa process. Read this blog to understand the TOEFL requirements for a student visa in Canada and get insights on TOEFL fees, minimum score requirements and more.

$WhatsApp Image 2024-02-09 at 6.01.07 PM (1).jpeg$
Most Canadian universities and colleges conduct their courses in English and immigration officers want to ensure that students can succeed in their studies and integrate into Canadian life. Therefore, meeting the country’s English language requirements is important for students to secure a Canada student visa.

While there are many English language assessment test available, TOEFL ranks first among the three most widely used English language proficiency tests and is known for being the quickest among other major assessment tests. Accepted by leading universities in Canada and worldwide TOEFL assists individuals seeking to pursue academic or professional opportunities in English-speaking environments like Canada.

What is TOEFL?

TOEFL, stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, is a standardized test that measures the English proficiency of non-native speakers who want to apply for English-medium academic programs or professional settings in English speaking countries.

There are two main versions of the TOEFL:

TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test)	This is the most widely used version of the test and is taken online at designated test centres.
TOEFL PBT (Paper-Based Test)	This older version of the test is still available in some limited locations, but it is being phased out in favour of the iBT.

Who takes the TOEFL?

• Students applying to universities or colleges where the primary language of instruction is English.

• Professionals seeking employment in English-speaking countries.

• Individuals applying for immigration visas or other purposes that require proof of English proficiency.

TOEFL exam pattern.webp

TOEFL Test and Service Fees

Following are the TOEFL test and service fees for Indian students

Service	Fees (USD)
TOEFL Test	$205
Late Registration	$40
Rescheduling	$60
Additional score reports (as per institution or agency)	$25
Speaking or Writing section score review	$80
Speaking and Writing section score review	$160
Returned payment	$30

TOEFL Test Sections Overview

The TOEFL test can be taken both online and on paper, while both formats of the tests check for a student’s language proficiency using the same scoring scale, the online and offline tests differ in many ways.

Feature	Online	Offline
Delivery Method	Computer with designated platform	Pen and paper at test centres
Convenience	Take from home or test centres	Travel to test centres required
Total Time	Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes	Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
Scoring and Feedback	Results within 4-8 days	Results within 11-13 days
Advantages	More convenient, quicker results, less number of questions asked	Wider variety of text types in reading.
Disadvantages	Technical issues possible, speaking section at home might differ	Less flexible scheduling, travel required

Online Test section overview

Here is a brief overview of the online TOEFL test sections. The online TOEFL test can take anywhere between two to two and a-half-hours to complete.

Section	Estimated Timing	Questions/Task	Description
Reading	35 minutes	20 questions	Read the passage and answer the given questions
Listening	36 minutes	28 questions	Answer the questions asked about lectures and discussions
Speaking	16 minutes	4 tasks	Talk about familiar topic and answer the questions asked
Writing	29 minutes	2 tasks	Read/listen to a passage/recording and answer. State and support an opinion in an online discussion

On-paper Test section overview

Here is a brief overview of the TOEFL test sections taken on paper. The reading listening and writing sections are taken on-site whereas the speaking section is conducted separately online at home.

On-site

The reading, listening and writing sections combined can take anywhere between three to three and a-half-hours.

Section	Estimated Timing	Questions/Task	Description
Reading	54-72 minutes	30-40 questions	Read the passage and answer the given questions.
Listening	41-57 minutes	28-39 questions	Answer the questions asked about lectures and discussions.
Writing	50 minutes	2 Tasks	Read/listen to a passage/recording and answer.

Online

The online speaking section can take anywhere between 17-20 minutes to complete.

Speaking

17 minutes

4 Tasks

Talk about familiar topic and answer the questions asked

Why take TOEFL for Canada student visa

International students planning to pursue their higher education in Canada need to submit their TOEFL or similar English Language proficiency scores to prove their language proficiency. While Canada does not strictly require the TOEFL for student visa applications, demonstrating English language proficiency is important for securing a study permit. TOEFL counts among some of the most widely accepted language assessment methods, recognized by nearly all Canadian universities.

There are several compelling reasons why choosing TOEFL to study in Canada could be a strategic move:

Worldwide Acceptance	Most of Canadian colleges and universities accept TOEFL scores, making it the most inclusive option compared to other tests. This gives the students flexibility in applying to any program without worrying about compatibility.
Preferred Choice	Over 80% of Masters programs in Canada actually prefer TOEFL scores, indicating a higher level of trust and familiarity with the test format and assessment criteria.
Global Recognition	TOEFL is the world's most respected and accepted English-language test, accepted by over 12,000 institutions in more than 160 countries. Making it helpful only for Canadian studies but also for future academic or professional pursuits beyond Canada.
Academic Focus	TOEFL emphasizes academic English skills, specifically targeting the types of reading, writing, listening, and speaking tasks that students encounter in university coursework, directly preparing them for the language demands of their studies.
Additional Benefits	TOEFL iBT is the shortest English-language testing option among other major choices, and is valid for two years, offering flexibility and saving time. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) program for expedited study visa processing accepts TOEFL scores, potentially easing the entry process to Canada. Students need to remember that ultimately, the best test to prove their language proficiency depends on their individual strengths, weaknesses, and program requirements.

TOEFL Cut-off for Canada Student Visa

While there is no official cut-off score for a Canada student visa, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80-100. This score demonstrates basic English proficiency for understanding and communicating in academic settings.

Students receive four scaled section scores and a total score.

• Each section has a score range between 0–30

• The section scores are added together to make a total score of 0–120

Here is a general overview of TOEFL scaled section scores and their proficiency level

Skill	Score	Level
Reading	• 24–30 • 18–23 • 4–17 • 0–3	Advanced High-Intermediate Low-Intermediate Below Low-Intermediate
Listening	• 22–30 • 17–21 • 9–16 • 0–8	Advanced High-Intermediate Low-Intermediate Below Low-Intermediate
Speaking	• 25–30 • 20–24 • 16–19 • 10–15 • 0–9	Advanced High-Intermediate Low-Intermediate Basic Below Basic
Writing	• 24–30 • 17–23 • 13–16 • 7–12 • 0–6	Advanced High-Intermediate Low-Intermediate Basic Below Basic

How to send TOEFL scores to universities?

There are two main ways students can send their TOEFL scores to universities

During Registration

This is the easiest and most cost-effective way to send the TOEFL sores to universities.

• Students can choose up to 4 universities to receive their test scores for free when they register for the TOEFL iBT test.

• Students can simply enter their institutional codes during registration.

• Students can edit their chosen universities until 10 PM on the day before their test date.

After Exam

If students need to send their scores to more than 4 universities, they can order additional score reports through their ETS account.

• Each additional report costs $25 per institution.

• Students can order reports through their ETS account, by mail, or by fax.

Delivery time

TOEFL scores arrive in 4-8 business days for computer-based tests and 11-13 days for paper tests. How students receive their TOEFL scores depends on the test format and the chosen delivery method:

Delivery Method	Internet Based Test	Paper Based Test
ETS Data Manager	4-8 business days	11-13 business days
Server Feeds	8-10 business days	11-16 business days
Postal Mail	10-12 business days	10-12 business days

Scores are sent by postal mail within 10-12 business days, followed by an additional mailing time based on the destination:

Within US	7-10 Business days
Outside US	4-6 Weeks

While the TOEFL is popular, there are some other English language proficiency tests accepted by Canadian immigration authorities, such as:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• Duolingo English Test (DET)

• Pearson Test of English (PTE)

• Canadian English Language Benchmarks (CELPIP)

Conclusion

Depending on the student’s specific circumstances and preferences, other English proficiency tests like IELTS might also be suitable options. However, considering the widespread acceptance, academic focus, and global recognition, TOEFL stands out as a strong choice for pursuing studies in Canada and hence, a minimum TOEFL score plays a vital role. Students can connect with the experts at Canamprep to score high in their TOEFL exam and study in Canada.

FAQ

How is the TOEFL scored?

Each section of the TOEFL iBT test is scored on a scale of 0-30. The total score is the sum of the scores from all four sections, ranging from 0-120.

Is TOEFL harder than IELTS?

The difficulty level of IELTS and TOEFL depends on individual strengths and test preferences. Both tests assess English proficiency for academic purposes but differ in format and content. The Reading and Writing sections may seem more familiar in the IELTS test for native English speakers as compared to TOEFL. Students are advised to research and choose the test that best suits their strength and interests.

Which English language certificate is accepted internationally?

There are several widely recognized and accepted English language certificate like, TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo English test, however students are advised to check the specific requirements of the institutions or organizations they are applying to their preferred tests and score benchmarks.

Is TOEFL more accepted than IELTS?

Both tests are widely accepted, with recognition by thousands of universities and institutions worldwide. TOEFL might have a slight edge in sheer numbers, accepted by more institutions compared to IELTS. While TOEFL generally dominates, being preferred by most US and Canadian universities, IELTS tends to be the standard in UK and some universities in Australia.

Is TOEFL valid for Canada PR?

Canadian immigration authorities do not specifically require or accept the TOEFL for PR applications. However, demonstrating English language proficiency is important for most PR pathways in Canada. This can be done through various accepted tests, including IELTS, TEF etc.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Global University Systems (GUS) - University for the Creative Arts - Epsom Campus

England, UK • 62 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 16000-17000 / year

Shorelight Group - University of Massachusetts Boston

Massachusetts, USA • 68 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 35000-36000 / year

Post University

Connecticut, USA • 86 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 31000-32000 / year

Kaplan Group - University of Connecticut - Stamford Campus

Connecticut, USA • 17 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 37000-38000 / year

Shorelight Group - Western New England University

Massachusetts, USA • 58 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

Fresenius University of Applied Sciences - Berlin Campus

Berlin, Germany • 13 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 9840-12240 / year

De Montfort University

England, UK • 247 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 14000-16500 / year

University of South Australia - Mount Gambier Campus

South Australia, Australia • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 30500-31000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

The International Education Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, Singapore, Germany, Ireland, France

Amritsar • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - University of Law, UK

Study in UK • University Visit

Mohali • 10:30AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Canterbury Christ Church University, UK

Study in UK • University Visit

Chennai • 10:00AM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Masters in International Business (MIB) in USA

Masters in International Business (MIB) is a 1-2 years long postgraduate degree program offered in the USA. The program offers a unique blend of busin...

Updated on • Nov 05,2024 04:12 PM IST • USA

IELTS Line Graph Model Answer

IELTS Line Graph is one of the two tasks of IELTS writing section. In this task, you will get a visual representation to explain in 150 words. It show...

Updated on • Nov 02,2024 04:35 PM IST • IELTS

Common Reasons for Student Visa Rejection in the USA

Studying in the United States is a dream for countless students worldwide. The idea of exploring expansive campuses, connecting with a diverse global ...

Updated on • Nov 01,2024 05:40 PM IST • USA

Why Study in France

Art and culture are among the most attractive factors that make France a wonderful choice as a study destination. The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Da...

Updated on • Nov 01,2024 01:41 PM IST • France

Study in New Zealand After Graduation

Thinking about pursuing your higher education in a serene and culturally diverse country? New Zealand is indeed your best option! The sceneries of Ne...

Updated on • Oct 29,2024 04:17 PM IST • New Zealand

Statement of Purpose (SOP) for Undergraduates : Format, Sample & Expert Tips

The Statement of Purpose is a cornerstone of every student's dream of pursuing higher education in a foreign country. An SOP allows students to highli...

Updated on • Oct 28,2024 05:52 PM IST • SOP

January Intake in UK : Universities, Timeline, Deadlines & More

Before choosing the UK as your study abroad destination, it is essential to learn about the three study intakes: Fall, Winter, and Summer, beginning i...

Updated on • Oct 28,2024 04:17 PM IST • study in the UK

Part-time Jobs for International Students in USA

A part-time job is more than just extra income; it's a stepping stone to experience, grow, and discover your potential. Going by this quote you might ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 05:56 PM IST • USA

Top Perks of Studying in New Zealand

Every year, a large number of students take a leap towards their dream by beginning to study in New Zealand. This island country has the all resource...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:54 PM IST • New Zealand

Top MBA Courses to Specialize in Abroad

MBA (Master of business administration) is a prestigious postgraduate qualification recognized internationally. It is designed to develop ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:52 PM IST • Study Abroad

Study Abroad: Physiotherapy Guide

With mechanization and inactive lifestyles, people face common muscular-skeletal problems that include neck pain, osteoarthritis knee, backache, a...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:42 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

Linking Words for IELTS Speaking - Word List & Tips

Linking words serve as the verbal "glue" that holds your ideas and phrases together. They aid in making connections between your sentences and are cru...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:28 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Writing Task 2 - Academic and General Topics with Sample Answer

The second component of the IELTS writing test, IELTS Writing Task 2, asks you to produce an essay in response to a point of view, an argument, or a p...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:26 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Writing Task 2: Tips, Lessons & Models

IELTS Writing task 2 is an essay writing question, and there are a few techniques or strategies that can help you tackle each question uniquely and sy...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:21 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Test Report Form (TRF): Number, Tracking, Validity and Sample

After taking the IELTS test, a scorecard is received with overall and band scores for each of the module- listening, reading, writing and speaki...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:01 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Speaking Samples and Answers

The three parts of the IELTS Speaking test take between five and fifteen minutes to complete. The sub-test consists of a talk with a qualified examine...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:59 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS speaking part 3 topics

IELTS has four components on which a candidate is marked: Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking. The IELTS speaking consists of an 11 to 20-minute ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:55 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards

IELTS Speaking One of the modules of an IELTS Exam is the Speaking Module. The Speaking module tests your ability to speak the English Language on ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:52 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Sample Charts for Writing Task 1 Practice

IELTS WRITING TASK 1 (Academic Paper) is a report that includes multiple charts such as bar charts, line graphs, tables, pie charts, diagrams, process...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:49 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS GT Writing Task 1/ IELTS Letter Writing

The IELTS letter-writing section evaluates your everyday language use. It also checks your ability to integrate into an English-speaking culture. The ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:48 PM IST • IELTS

A Guide to Minimum TOEFL Score for Canada Student Visa

Table of Contents

What is TOEFL?

TOEFL, stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, is a standardized test that measures the English proficiency of non-native speakers who want to apply for English-medium academic programs or professional settings in English speaking countries.

Who takes the TOEFL?

TOEFL Test and Service Fees

TOEFL Test Sections Overview

Online Test section overview

On-paper Test section overview

Here is a brief overview of the TOEFL test sections taken on paper. The reading listening and writing sections are taken on-site whereas the speaking section is conducted separately online at home.

On-site

The reading, listening and writing sections combined can take anywhere between three to three and a-half-hours.

Online

Why take TOEFL for Canada student visa

TOEFL Cut-off for Canada Student Visa

How to send TOEFL scores to universities?

During Registration

After Exam

Delivery time

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams