English proficiency and paying the application fee on time are two of the many requirements expected of applicants at Canadian universities. While the score for the proficiency test and how much is payable vary by school; that doesn’t however rule out that they are important.
However, some universities in Canada wave the IELTS proficiency test and replace it with another. Other schools retain the test but waive the application fee. It will, therefore, interest you to know that you can find cheap universities in Canada and stand a chance of getting admitted, even without taking an IELTS test or paying an application fee.
Is It Possible to Study in Canadian Universities without IELTS?
The English Language is the main medium of instruction in most Canadian schools. Hence, they require applicants to ace the International English Language Testing Score (IELTS) to confirm their proficiency in the use of English.
It is, however, possible to find a Canadian university that asks one to take other forms of proficiency tests, including TOEFL, in place of IELTS. You may also be able to get an application fee waiver at such schools.
Canadian Universities to Apply for without IELTS or Application Fee
In this section, we introduce you to some of the schools in Canada where you will get started for university education without IELTS and application fees.
1. Canadian Mennonite University
This is a Christian University located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Canadian Mennonite University thrives on the commitment “to embodying the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.” In line with the dedication towards “fostering a safe and welcoming environment for people of all identities, orientations, backgrounds and beliefs,” it has decided to waive the application fee.
The school offers other forms of language proficiency tests. For example, applicants need to have a minimum score of 550 in the paper-based version of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL.
English proficiency may also be demonstrated by taking any of the following tests:
- Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): a minimum score of 80%.
- CanTest: a score of 4.0 in Writing and an average of 4.5 in Listening and Reading is required.
- Pearson Test of English-Academic (PTE): a minimum score of 58.
- Cambridge English Assessment Scale: a minimum score of 200 (C) on the C2 Proficiency Test or 180 (C) on the C1 Advanced.
Canadian Mennonite University is willing to waive up to $80 application fee for applicants who participate in any of the Discover Days. The program (Discover Day) is dedicated to prospective high school and transfer students to help familiarize them with the school.
2. Carleton University
Applicants to Carleton University are required to meet the English proficiency requirements, using any of the options offered.
Aside from IELTS, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) (Academic) with an overall score of 60 (a minimum of 60 in each Communicative Skill) can be used. International applicants can also score a minimum of 86 in TOEFL iBT or a minimum of 70 in the Canadian Academic English Language Test (CAEL) to start their admission process.
As for the application fee, Carleton University may be willing to waive it for undergraduate applicants. If you are applying for undergraduate studies, a non-refundable application fee applies. The fee ranges from $110 and $120, depending on the year you are applying to the university for admission.
3. Booth University College
This is a private, Christian school located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It is one of the cheapest universities in the country without IELTS and application fees.
Tuition fee is estimated at $9,630 for Canadian students, and $12,450 for students from the United States, while international students pay up to $14,250 yearly for a 2-term annual program covering 5 courses.
English proficiency is required of applicants who are neither a Permanent Resident (PR) in Canada nor from the country. International students from countries where the English language is not the primary language must demonstrate English proficiency by completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
The application fee is waived for applicants from Canada and the U.S. International students from other countries will pay a fee of $150 to process their application to the college.
4. Algonquin College
This College is located in Ottawa, Ontario and doesn’t necessarily require the IELTS to grant admission to applicants.
As English is the language of instruction at the school, applicants are expected to meet a minimum level of English language proficiency. This can be demonstrated with other standardized English tests, other than the IELTS. Options include TOEFL, CAEL, PTE or the completion of the Algonquin College EAP Program.
Exception from meeting the requirements for the College’s EAP Program, Academic IELTS or TOEFL can be granted to applicants who meet conditions like:
- Graduation from an authorized Algonquin College ESL pathway program.
- Completion of high school education in English in a country (other than Canada) where the English language is the primary medium of instruction.
- Completing the Advanced Placement (AP) English Language & Composition.
Algonquin College waives the application fee for students taking their second program to become specialists in a field. To get the offer, applicants should select “Voucher” for the payment method and use their “Student Number” as the voucher code before submitting their application.
5. Tyndale University
Come over to Tyndale University if you are looking to gain admission without IELTS or paying an application fee. The school is located in Toronto, Ontario.
For the application fee, the university gives a waiver for applicants from Canada or the United States. If you are not within that category, the following applies:
- International applicants will be required to pay a non-refundable application fee of $150.
- Applicants to the Bachelor of Education (BEd) program will pay an application fee of $75.
Applicants to Tyndale University, who have the English language as their second language will be asked to complete a standardize test, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The minimum score is 90 for TOEFL (iBT).
Tips on Finding Cheapest Universities in Canada without IELTS and Application Fee
It is worth mentioning that some affordable universities in Canada also go the extra mile to waive the application fee. International and domestic students typically benefit from this gesture.
To make the most out of it, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Fees Vary by Programs
It is possible to get a general waiver on the application, but you may be required to pay the same, depending on the program.
IELTS Can be Replaced
The use of IELTS to adjudge an applicant’s English proficiency is no longer a must, as some universities in Canada now accept other standardized tests. Of course, you are expected to meet the minimum score or average to be considered.
Work with Your Budget
There are tens of affordable universities in Canada; each with varying fee schedules. If you will get the most out of the IELTS and application fee waiver; go for the ones that fit into your budget.
Conclusion
Cheap Canadian universities help students (both domestic and international) get access to quality education without breaking the bank. In addition to following the tips we shared, consult your academic advisor to help you choose a program that aligns with your yearly budget for studying in Canada.