IELTS for studying in Canada
IELTS for a Canadian study permit: the permit itself needs no test since the Student Direct Stream ended, but colleges and universities do, e.g. 6.5 at UBC.
The band you need
| For | Test | Overall | Each skill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study permit (IRCC)The Student Direct Stream (SDS) ended on 8 November 2024. | IELTS Academic | No test required | — |
| University of British Columbia, undergraduateGeneral Training and One Skill Retake not accepted. | IELTS Academic | 6.5 | 6.0 |
Checked 29 October 2026 against the sources below. Requirements change, and your university or employer may ask for more: confirm with them before you book.
A practice plan
- Find your program's English requirement: the college or university sets it, not the study permit.
- Book IELTS Academic unless the school says otherwise; UBC, for one, does not accept General Training or a One Skill Retake.
- Take the free placement test, then practise the weakest skill first.
- Sit full mock tests under real timing before the real one.
Start here
Questions
Does a Canadian study permit need IELTS?
IRCC's document list for a study permit has no language test since the Student Direct Stream ended on 8 November 2024. Your college or university will still ask for one to admit you.
Is the Student Direct Stream still open?
No. It ended on 8 November 2024.
How much does IELTS cost in Bangladesh?
IDP Bangladesh lists IELTS on Computer (Academic or General Training) at BDT 31,100 and IELTS for UKVI at BDT 34,850, and a One Skill Retake at BDT 18,600. Check the current fee when you book.