top of page

How to Study and Work in Canada Without IELTS

Are you one of those students who want to pursue higher education in top destinations like Canada? When you plan to move to Canada, many institutions require IELTS scores for admission.


But what is IELTS? IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. It is used by universities and employers around the world to guarantee sufficient English language for students or employees.


Did you know that even without IELTS, you can still study and work in Canada? Read along as we find out some ways on how to study in Canada without taking the rigorous test.


Why Study and Work in Canada?


Have you ever asked yourself why you should choose Canada for your international studies? There are plenty of reasons to love Canada. Canada is well-known for being a multicultural country. It is home to many immigrants from all over the world.


Aside from its natural beauty, Canada draws international students because of its excellent education system. The country also has generous networks of social assistance programs and great healthcare privileges.


Canada offers a wide range of courses to all degree levels. Some of the popular fields to study in Canada are business schools, medical universities, and engineering.


When it comes to employment, Canada never stops seeking skilled and fresh talents to support the development of the Canadian economy. The government allows international students to take jobs part-time 20 hours per week without the need for a work permit. An average student salary in an entry-level position starts at $28,840 per year.


After graduation, international students have the opportunity to continue working in Canada for up to three years following the completion of their program, under a post-graduation work permit. If you are loving Canada that much, you are welcome to stay as a permanent resident, given that you’ve satisfied the immigration office on their requirements.


Is It Possible to Study in Canada Without IELTS?


While English language proficiency tests are being required to some Canadian universities for admission, it is also possible to study in Canada without having IELTS. Many universities in Canada ask students to provide a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) from previous academic institutions.


Admission to your chosen university is allowed given that you qualify for the alternative proficiency required by the university. Here are the best alternatives set by universities for those who are planning to study in Canada:


  • English Proficiency tests like TOEFL (Test of English as Foreign Language), Duolingo English Test, and PTE (Pearson English Language Test).

  • Proof that you have studied in an English medium school for at least 4 years as the replacement for English proficiency scores.

  • Students from English-speaking countries are also exempted from providing IELTS scores in Canada.

  • For those who can’t provide English proficiency scores, you may opt for an English language course offered by your university.

  • Apply for Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. programs.


Luckily, most of Fil-Global’s partnered institutions do not require the IELTS exam! Knowing the level of English proficiency Filipinos have, our team decided to request an exemption of our enrollees.


Now that you know you can pursue your dream without taking the IELTS, it’s time to prepare for the next chapter―your student life!


Steps on How to Study and Work in Canada Without IELTS


The best move you can make if you want to work and study in Canada is to have a Study Permit. Studying for any degree like Bachelor’s, Master's, or a Ph.D. Degree Program will make you eligible to work in Canada.


Here are the steps on how to study while earning in Canada without getting an IELTS:


Step 1 – Get admission in Canada through certain colleges or universities.


Avail scholarships for Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. Programs in Canadian institutions. Fil-Global and its partnered schools offer scholarship grants of up to $10,000 to qualified students. Get in touch with our agents to know more!


If you are not awarded with scholarship, you can get:

  • English Proficiency Certificate from your previous university.

  • Search for universities that do not require IELTS.

  • Enroll in a 6-month course in Complete English Language Course in Canada.

Step 2 – Become an International Student in Canada.


You can only start working in Canada once you start your study program. You can work on campus, off-campus, or right after graduation.


For on-campus work, you may be assigned at the library, research facility, or work for a faculty member. While working off-campus means you can work without a work permit as long as you meet the following requirements:

  • Be a full-time student at a designated institution.

  • Enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational professional training program.

  • Your study program should be at least 6 months long that lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.

  • You’ve started studying.


Working in Canada after your graduation requires a work permit. Your post-graduation work permit will enable you to work full-time in Canada. The work experience you will get while working may help you qualify for permanent residency.


Where to Study in Canada Without IELTS


Let’s explore which Canadian schools accept applicants with no English proficiency exam.


University of Canada West


The University of Canada West is a private university in British Columbia. UCW offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business and management. The institution is a business and technology-focused university. With more than 4,000 students from 90 countries, the international community is strong.


The university has two campuses located in downtown Vancouver and West Pender. International students may apply for a post-graduation work permit after completing a degree.


Featured Program


The Masters in Business Administration (MBA) program of UCW has a Global Business Accreditation which certifies the quality of courses and teaching they provide to their students. The MBA program develops skills in critical thinking, communication, leadership, and business ethics.


The program partners with Digital Marketing Institute, Tableau, and IBM to bring the digital feature to MBA courses. Elective courses are also offered to acquire specific knowledge and skills focused on leadership, marketing, or finance.


Sault College


Sault College is a publicly funded College in Sault, Ontario. The College offers diplomas, certificates, and graduate certificates in more than 50 programs in Engineering, Health Sciences, Community Sciences, Information Technology, and Business.


Featured Program


One of the most sought-after programs in Sault College is the Diploma in School of Health. Healthcare careers offer job growth and security nowadays. Programs under the School of Health are:

  • Child and Youth Care Program (3-year advanced diploma program)

  • Practical Nursing (2-year program)


Niagara College


Niagara College is home to more than 9,000 students including international students from more than 60 countries. It has two campuses situated in Niagara Region in Southern Ontario.


International students can enroll in NC programs while getting employment on and off-campus. Upon successful completion of an NC diploma or certificate program, you will be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit. The College offers more than 130 programs from Diploma, Apprenticeship, Certificate, and Bachelor's Degree.


Featured Program


One of the areas of specialization of Niagara College includes food and wine services under the Tourism and Hospitalization Program. This includes the following courses:

  • Esthetician

  • Bachelor of Business Administration major in Hospitality

  • Hospitality and Tourism Management

  • Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations

  • Tourism Management – Business Development




Want to grab the opportunity to study and work in Canada? Check out our website and let our team of professionals assist you.

bottom of page