What Is the Best English Language Test for Canadian University: TOEFL, IELTS or

[AbdulBasit Odurinde]

If you are a Nigerian student dreaming of studying in Canada, one of the first questions you will face is this: which English test should I take? You have probably heard of TOEFL and IELTS, and maybe you have come across names like Duolingo or PTE. The options can feel confusing especially when you are preparing for the first time.

This article will break everything down for you simply and clearly, so you can make the right choice from the start.

First, Does Canada Accept All These Tests?

Yes. Canadian universities accept TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic as their two primary tests, but other options like the Pearson Test of English (PTE), the Duolingo English Test, and the Canadian Academic English Language test (CAEL) are also accepted by many institutions. So you have choices but not all tests carry equal weight everywhere.

TOEFL, A Strong Choice for University Admission

TOEFL is one of the most trusted English tests in the world, and it performs very well in Canada specifically for university admission. More than 80% of graduate programs in Canada prefer the TOEFL iBT over other tests, and more TOEFL iBT scores are sent to Canadian universities than all other English tests combined.

Canadian universities generally require a minimum TOEFL score of 80 to 100 for undergraduate programs and 90 to 100 for postgraduate programs.

The test is fully computer-based, which means everything including the Speaking section is done on a screen. TOEFL is more academically focused, often requiring you to combine different skills to answer questions. If you are comfortable with computers and academic-style tasks, TOEFL may suit you well.

IELTS, The Most Widely Recognised Option

IELTS is arguably the most popular English test globally, and Canada is no exception. Both IELTS and TOEFL are widely accepted across all Canadian universities, but IELTS is generally preferred, with an average requirement of 6.5 bands overall and no less than 6.0 in each module.

One key difference Nigerian students appreciate about IELTS is the Speaking test. While TOEFL’s Speaking test is done on a computer with a microphone, IELTS offers a face-to-face speaking session with a real examiner, which many students find more natural and less intimidating.

Here are the typical score requirements for Canadian universities:

For a Bachelor’s degree, most universities require IELTS 6.5 with each band at least 6.0, or TOEFL 84 with each skill scoring at least 21. For a Master’s degree, the requirement is IELTS 6.5 with each band at least 6.0, or TOEFL 88 with each skill scoring at least 22.

What About the Other Tests?

Beyond TOEFL and IELTS, there are a few alternatives worth knowing about.

• Duolingo English Test (DET): This is the most affordable option. The Duolingo test costs around $65, which is significantly cheaper than IELTS and TOEFL. It is also fully online and provides results within two days. However, not every Canadian university accepts it, so always confirm before booking.
• PTE Academic: PTE Academic is now approved by Canada’s immigration authority for all study permit applications, giving students more flexibility. It is fully computer-based and results come faster than IELTS.
• CAEL: The CAEL test is designed specifically for Canadian post-secondary education, and all major English-speaking universities in Canada accept it. However, it is less known internationally, so Nigerian students may have fewer preparation resources available locally.

So Which Test Should a Nigerian Student Choose?

Here is a simple guide based on your goals:

If you want university admission only both TOEFL and IELTS work perfectly. Choose based on which format you are more comfortable with. Computer-based with academic tasks? Go TOEFL. Face-to-face speaking with a real examiner? Go IELTS.

If you want 100% security, IELTS will be the best. If you want to study and possibly immigrate to Canada later IELTS is the smarter choice. For Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry, only IELTS General Training is accepted. TOEFL is not recognised for this pathway. Taking IELTS now means you are already familiar with the format when you need it for immigration later.

If you are on a tight budget consider Duolingo, but only after confirming your target university accepts it.

One Final Reminder

All English test scores are valid for two years from the date you passed the exam. Plan your test date wisely so your score is still valid when your admission is being processed.

There is no single best test; the best one is the one that matches your goals, your learning style, and the requirements of your target university.

If u want to improve your TOEFL Score visit the Best Nigerian TOEFL community , which we are currently building at Odurinde eLearning site.

Check this post out.
More useful Nigerian TOEFL information you may find interesting includes :
– Common mistakes Nigerian make in the listening section of TOEFL

– The TOEFL score accepted by UK universities

– Universities, Colleges, and Countries That Accept TOEFL

– Win N20,000 by sharing your TOEFL experience

– How hard is TOEFL for Nigerian students

– New to TOEFL? Join FREE TOEFL taster course at Odurinde eLearning

• This topic was modified 1 month, 3 weeks ago by AbdulBasit Odurinde.

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