English Language Proficiency
English is the primary language of instruction and communication at the University of Alberta, and all applicants must be proficient in English before admission.
International applicants must be able to demonstrate English Language Proficiency (ELP) at the time of application.
Demonstrating English Language Proficiency
You can demonstrate ELP in several ways, including education, examination and secondary school coursework.
For more information about English Language Proficiency, see English Language Requirement in the University Calendar.
Recognized English Language Education
ELP can be demonstrated by possessing a degree or its academic equivalent from an institution that is recognized by the U of A and where the language of instruction is English. In addition, we may require proof that the instruction for the degree was in English.
English Language Examinations
ELP can be demonstrated through a satisfactory score on one of the following approved English language examinations within the last two years.
|
Exams |
Minimum Score |
|
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT, in-person or special at-home edition) * |
Total score of 90 with a score of at least 21 on each of the individual skill areas (internet-based) or equivalent |
|
Academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS) |
6.5, with at least 6.0 on each test band |
|
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL or CAEL CE) |
Overall 70 with at least 60 on each subtest |
|
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) |
61 with a minimum band score of 60 |
|
120 with no subscore below 100 Some graduate programs in which proficiency in spoken English is especially important may have a higher than minimum English language proficiency requirement of 140 with no subscore below 120 |
Secondary School Coursework
ELP may be demonstrated through confirmation of sufficient English language coursework at the secondary school level from select countries.
Academic English for Graduate Admission (EAP 550)
EAP 550 (through the U of A's English Language School through the Faculty of Education) may be used as an alternate method of satisfying the existing English language admission requirement.