Minimum IELTS Score for Canada PR & Work Permit 2025

Program Level	Overall IELTS Score
Undergraduate	6.0
Postgraduate	6.5

University	Overall IELTS Score
University of Toronto	6.5
University of British Columbia	6.5
McGill University	6.5
University of Alberta	6.5
McMaster University	6.5
University of Ottawa	6.5
Simon Fraser University	6.5
York University	6.5
Western University	6.5
University of Waterloo	7.0

Canada Student Visa IELTS Band Requirements

Generally, the IELTS band requirement for a Canada student visa is 6.0 overall. Meeting the required IELTS band score is a crucial step in securing a Canadian student visa and gaining admission to educational institutions in Canada. Individual universities and colleges may have their own IELTS requirements, which could be higher than the general guidelines. Additionally, certain specialized programs, such as Engineering, Teaching, and Education Studies, may have more stringent language requirements.

Hence, prospective students must prepare thoroughly for the IELTS exam to meet or exceed these requirements.

What is CLB in IELTS?

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is the official standard used in Canada to measure English language proficiency for immigration and professional purposes. It is used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to assess language skills for Express Entry, work permits, and PR applications.

The CLB system converts IELTS scores into different proficiency levels, ranging from CLB 1 (lowest) to CLB 10 (highest). A higher CLB level improves your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in the Express Entry system, increasing your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.

IELTS Score Requirements for Express Entry

To qualify for Canada’s Express Entry system, candidates must meet the minimum IELTS score requirements, which are converted into Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels. Different immigration pathways under Express Entry, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC), have varying IELTS score requirements.

Below is a table summarizing the minimum IELTS scores required for each program:

So it is important to know your goal and aim for higher IELTS scores to boost your Express Entry profile and improve your chances of successfully immigrating to Canada.

IELTS Score for Canada PR

Now that you’ve got a good grasp of what CLB is and the buzz around it, let’s help you get the PR!

For many aspiring immigrants, Canada PR is a dream, and achieving the right IELTS score plays a crucial role. The higher your IELTS score, the more Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points you earn, significantly improving your chances of selection. This is where the 8777 IELTS score comes into play—a target score that many candidates aim for to maximize their CRS points.

IELTS Score for Canada PR (8777 IELTS Score)

This is a crucial milestone for candidates because achieving CLB 9 or higher provides a significant CRS boost, making them more competitive in Express Entry draws.

Here’s what the 8777 IELTS score looks like:

But why is 8777 so important?

Achieving CLB 9 unlocks additional CRS points, making candidates more likely to receive an ITA for PR. Many Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and job-related immigration pathways also favour applicants with CLB 9 or higher, increasing the chances of getting selected for PR faster. However, reaching this score is not always easy. It requires strong preparation, smart strategies, and consistent practice.

How to Prepare for an 8777 IELTS Score?

Achieving 8777 in IELTS requires a strategic approach and consistent practice across all four sections. It is important to familiarize yourself with the types of questions in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Here’s how you can prepare effectively:

• Improve Listening for an 8.0 Score: Practice with IELTS audio recordings, TED Talks, and BBC podcasts to adapt to different accents. Try to take mock listening tests to enhance accuracy and develop active listening skills by noting key details while listening.
• Boost Reading & Writing for a 7.0 Score: Practice skimming and scanning techniques to find answers faster. Also try to expand your vocabulary by reading news articles, research papers, and academic texts.
• Enhance Speaking for a 7.0 Score: Record your responses and analyze fluency, pronunciation, and coherence. You can also practice with a partner or take mock speaking tests to build confidence.
• Take Full-Length Mock Tests: Simulate real exam conditions to identify weak areas and improve performance. It will help in analysing mistakes and developing a time management strategy to avoid running out of time in any section.

Why Do International Students Choose IELTS for Studying in Canada?

By choosing IELTS for studying in Canada, international students ensure smooth admission, visa approval, and future career opportunities in the country! 

Here are the 5 main reasons why you should opt for IELTS.

• Widely Accepted by Canadian Institutions: IELTS is recognized by over 400+ universities and colleges in Canada, making it the most preferred English proficiency test for study applications.

• Trusted by Immigration Authorities: Whether applying for a study permit or future permanent residency (PR), IELTS is the most reliable test under the Express Entry and immigration pathways.

• Fair and Standardized Testing Format: IELTS evaluates listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills through real-world scenarios. The face-to-face speaking test gives students a chance to interact with a human examiner rather than a computer, making the evaluation more personalized and realistic.

• Availability of Test Centers Worldwide: With 1,600+ test centres across 140+ countries, IELTS is widely accessible. Students can choose between the paper-based or computer-delivered IELTS, making it a convenient option for applicants worldwide.

• Accepted for Work and PR After Studies: Many students who study in Canada later apply for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) or PR. Since IELTS is also required for Canadian immigration, students benefit by taking it early and using their scores for future visa applications.

Suggested: IELTS Sample Paper 2025

From the Desk of Yocket

At Yocket, we take pride in helping students turn their dreams of studying, working, or settling in Canada into reality. We understand that meeting the IELTS requirements is a crucial step in your journey—whether you're applying for a student visa, work permit, or permanent residency, the right IELTS score can unlock countless opportunities.

With our expert guidance, comprehensive study resources, and mock test support, we ensure that students and professionals achieve their target IELTS scores efficiently. Preparing with Yocket Prep not only helps you meet the minimum requirements but also maximizes your chances of visa approval and future career success in Canada.