Canadian Immigration: Language Testing

There are several ways in which you can prove that you speak enough English or French to benefit the Canadian economy. If you are immigrating from an English- or French-speaking country, or if your high school or college transcripts show that you have taken acceptable levels of English or French, this can be enough proof.

However, if you haven't studied English or French in a formal setting, or if your present level is considerably higher than your high school or college transcripts indicate, you must take one of several language evaluation tests available all over the world and recognized by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Once you complete these tests, you will be given a document with an official evaluation of your language abilities.

This test might also come in handy later, if you decide to continue your education in Canada. It will become part of your educational credentials, like your high school and college diplomas and transcripts. For the purposes of Canadian immigration test results are good for 1 year.

International English Language Testing System

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) was created by educational organizations in Great Britain and Australia. Today it has more than 400 centres in 150 countries all over the world. The test is the same everywhere, and all testing personnel is trained and monitored in the same way: no matter where you are, your knowledge of English will be measured in the same way. The test measures the same four language skills you had to evaluate above: Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing.

1. Fees

The fees are based on location, and are payable in the currency of your country. They are usually payable by cash or money order, but different locations might have different rules. Please ask your local testing location about the price in your currency and method of payment.

2. Registration