English Language Proficiency Policy

This policy describes the requirements and conditions that applicants must demonstrate to prove they are proficient in the English language. ESL proficiency is based on internationally recognized testing outcomes. English language proficiency is a prerequisite for student success in all programs.

English Language Education

For those previously educated in English, English must have been their full-time language of instruction for a minimum of 3 years at the secondary level (Grade 10-12) and/or a minimum of 2 years at the post-secondary level. International regions with accepted English language educations are included in the attached chart.

  • Evidence that 3 years of full-time secondary education (Grades 10-12) have been successfully completed in English as the program’s language of instruction in a recognized country from the attached chart. Requires transcript and graduation diploma.
  • Evidence that 2 years of full-time post-secondary education have been completed in English as the program’s language of instruction in a recognized country from the attached chart. Requires transcript.

English Proficiency Testing

Applicants who do not meet the above requirements may supply results of a recognized English Language Competency test. Tests must have been completed within the last two years. Other restrictions may apply.

Applicants must ensure that the test they are taking and submitting results for are eligible for the program or diploma they are planning to pursue. Accepted tests and minimum required results vary per program, but include the following:

  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Test results must be within the last two years.
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Test results must be within the last two years.
  • Canadian Language Benchmark Placement Test (CLB PT): Test results must be within the last year.
  • Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).
  • Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL).
  • Duolingo.

Educational Document Submission

During the admissions process, program applicants are required to submit original documentation that demonstrates that they have met the admission and English Language proficiency requirements. Applicants must provide transcripts as evidence for secondary and/or post-secondary education, and a diploma for secondary education.

Admissions representatives collect the required documentation, validate it, and place it in the student file as part of the admissions process.

International English Education Chart

As an option for proof of English language proficiency, institutions may accept evidence that an applicant has successfully completed a specified minimum of full-time secondary or post-secondary education at an accredited institution where English is the language of instruction. Documentation demonstrating this evidence must be provided in English. The Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) considers education completed (in English) in the following countries as counting toward an assessment of prior education in English.

Countries that satisfy the English Language Admission Standard
American SamoaDominicaLesothoSt. Kitts & Nevis
AnguillaFalkland IslandsLiberiaSt. Lucia
Antigua & BarbudaFijiMaltaSt. Vincent & The Grenadines
AustraliaGambiaMauritiusTanzania
BahamasGhanaMontserratTrinidad & Tobago
BarbadosGibraltarNew ZealandTurks & Caicos Islands
BelizeGrenadaNigeriaUganda
BermudaGuamSeychellesUnited Kingdom
BotswanaGuyanaSierra LeoneUS Virgin Islands
British Virgin IslandsIrelandSingaporeUSA
Canada (including Quebec*)JamaicaSouth AfricaZambia
Cayman IslandsKenyaSt. HelenaZimbabwe
  • Applicants who were educated in Quebec at an institution where the language of instruction was not English must submit proof of external English language proficiency testing.

Important Contacts

Effective Date: January 10, 2025
Revision Date: January 10, 2025