Do you want to study in Canada but don’t want to take the IELTS exam? Good news! Many Canadian schools and universities let you apply without IELTS. You can use other proof of English like MOI certificates, TOEFL, Duolingo, or internal tests. This guide explains step-by-step how you can do this from Nigeria. We use simple English and over 1,400 words to help you fully understand. We also show how IvyPlug can support your whole journey—from essays to study plans.
1. Why You Can Study Without IELTS
IELTS is a popular English test, but it’s not the only proof of English. Canadian schools may accept:
- MOI Certificate: Shows you studied in English before.
- Other tests: TOEFL, PTE, CAEL, CELPIP, Cambridge, Duolingo.
- School pathways: Many colleges offer ESL or bridge programs.
- Internal tests or interviews: Some institutions test you themselves.
This gives students from Nigeria many options to study in Canada without IELTS.
2. Understand English Requirements in Canada
2.1 What is an MOI Certificate?
An MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificate shows your previous school used English. If you studied in English-medium schools for 3–4 years, you can request an MOI letter with official details like your name, program, and signature. Many Canadian schools accept this instead of tests :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
2.2 English Tests Accepted Instead
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic
- CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language)
- CELPIP (Canadian English test)
- Cambridge English (C1, C2)
- Duolingo English Test
Canadian schools accept these tests too :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
2.3 ESL Pathway Programs
Many colleges offer pathway or bridge programs. If you finish one, you get direct entry to your course without IELTS. Schools like University Canada West offer this route :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
3. Where You Can Study Without IELTS
Here are universities and colleges in Canada that accept alternatives:
3.1 MOI Certificate Accepted Institutions
- McGill University
- University of Waterloo
- University of Saskatchewan
- University of Manitoba
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Brock University
- University of Regina
- Cape Breton University
- Brandon University
- Laurentian University
These schools accept MOI certificate instead of IELTS :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
3.2 Duolingo Accepted Institutions
Over 150 schools accept Duolingo. Notable ones include:
- University of Alberta
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Calgary
- Concordia University
- Queen’s University
- University of Regina
- University of Saskatchewan
- University of Winnipeg
Duolingo is fast, low-cost (~$59), and gives results in a day or two :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
3.3 Other Schools & Pathways
- University of Winnipeg
- Cambrian College
- Algoma University
- University of Regina
- Concordia University
- Seneca College
- Okanagan College
These accept TOEFL, PTE, CAEL, MOI, and Duolingo :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
4. Step-by-Step Guide From Nigeria
Step 1: Choose Your School/College
Decide study level (undergrad, postgrad, diploma). Use resources like school websites or Leverage Edu :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}. Check which English proofs they accept.
Step 2: Get MOI Certificate (if eligible)
- Ask your secondary or higher education school to issue one.
- Include your name, years of English study, school letterhead, stamp, and signature.
Step 3: Take an Alternative English Test (optional)
If MOI isn’t enough, take a test:
- Duolingo – quick and from home
- TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAEL, or CELPIP
- Cambridge English (C1 Advanced) :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
Step 4: Apply to Schools
- Use either application portal or school site.
- Include transcripts, CV, ID, motivation letter, English proof (MOI or test), and passport copy.
Some may require an interview or internal test.
Step 5: Accept Offer & Apply for Study Permit
- Once you get an offer, use it to apply for a Canada study permit.
- You typically include acceptance letter, passport, funds, photo, and biometrics.
- Visa officers accept alternative English proof if school does :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
Step 6: Prepare for Arrival
- Book flight and accommodation.
- Get health insurance.
- Plan travel and connect with student communities.
Step 7: Arrive and Start Studies
- Register at school, get study permit stamped.
- Open bank account, get SIM card.
- Attend orientation and begin classes!
5. Costs to Consider
- Test fees: Duolingo ≈ $59, TOEFL ≈ $200+, PTE/CAEL/CELPIP similar.
- Application fees: CAD 50–250 :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
- Tuition: CAD 7,000–22,000 per year :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
- Living costs: CAD 10,000–15,000 per year.
- Study permit: CAD 150–200.
6. Tips for Success
- Start early: Start applications at least 8–12 months before your start date.
- Apply broadly: Choose 3–5 schools.
- Check deadlines: Each school has its own dates.
- Get documents ready: Translate if needed, scan copies.
- Communicate: Email admission offices if unsure.
- Prepare for pathway classes: If you do ESL or extra English before degree.
- Use support: Services like IvyPlug can help with essays, proof, and planning.
7. How IvyPlug Can Help You
Applying internationally can be long and confusing. IvyPlug makes it simple:
- Admission Essays & Personal Statements: They improve your writing, logic, and tone.
- Application Advisory: Guide you to pick the right English proof and tests.
- Visa Help: They ensure your English evidence meets permit needs.
- Study Planning: Advice on programs, pathways, and budgets.
IvyPlug supports you every step—from getting an MOI certificate to securing your study permit and funding.
8. Common Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I get a Canada study visa without IELTS? | Yes, if your school accepts an alternative like MOI or other approved test :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}. |
| Is Duolingo accepted? | Yes, more than 150 Canadian schools accept Duolingo scores :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}. |
| Can I use MOI from Nigeria? | Yes, if you studied in English medium for 3–4 years and get official documents. |
| Are ESL pathway programs good? | Yes—if you don’t have English proof, they can lead to full admission :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}. |
9. Checklist Before You Apply
- Choose level and schools
- Check accepted English proofs
- Get MOI certificate or take alternative test
- Write and finalize personal statement
- Apply with all documents
- Accept offer and prepare visa
- Book flight and accommodation
- Arrive and start classes
10. Final Thoughts
You can study in Canada from Nigeria without IELTS by using MOI, Duolingo, TOEFL, or pathway programs. It’s about knowing your options and choosing well. Use this guide as your map—and get extra help from IvyPlug to make it smoother. Good luck with your journey—you’re on the right path!