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New Language Test Option for Canadian Permanent Residence Applicants
Foreign nationals aspiring to immigrate to Canada will soon have one more pathway to prove their English language ability. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that the TOEFL Essentials test will be recognized in the near future as part of its approved list of English language tests.
Currently, IRCC does not yet accept TOEFL Essentials, but once the official updates are published, eligible applicants under various immigration streams will be able to use this test to demonstrate their proficiency.
Currently Accepted Language Tests for Canadian Immigration
To qualify under most permanent economic immigration programs, candidates must prove their ability in English or French by taking a test from an IRCC-designated language testing organization. At present, the accepted tests are:
English Language Tests
- IELTS General Training (International English Language Testing System)
- CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- PTE Core
French Language Tests
- TEF Canada (Test d’évaluation de français)
- TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français)
These tests are widely recognized and used for Express Entry, PNPs, and other immigration streams. The addition of TOEFL Essentials will soon expand this list, giving applicants more flexibility and choice.
Who Can Benefit from TOEFL Essentials?
Once implemented, the test will apply to several major immigration pathways, including:
- Express Entry Programs
-
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Note: Since PNPs are run by provinces and territories, acceptance of TOEFL Essentials may vary depending on regional policies.
This means that thousands of skilled professionals, students transitioning to permanent residence, and other eligible applicants could choose TOEFL Essentials as their preferred language test.
About the TOEFL Essentials Test
The TOEFL Essentials exam is designed to evaluate the four essential English skills:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Unlike traditional exams, it focuses on practical, task-based activities that mirror real-life communication scenarios. The test takes around 1.5 hours and will be offered at secure testing centres both in Canada and globally.
Comparison of Accepted and Upcoming Language Tests for Canadian Immigration
| Test | Language | Skills Assessed | Test Duration | Test Format | Accepted By IRCC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS General Training | English | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | ~2 hours 45 minutes | Paper-based or Computer-based (plus face-to-face Speaking) | ✅ Currently Accepted |
| CELPIP General | English | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | ~3 hours | Fully Computer-based (including Speaking) | ✅ Currently Accepted |
| TOEFL Essentials | English | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | ~1.5 hours | Computer-based at Secure Test Centres | 🚫 Not yet, but coming soon |
| TEF Canada | French | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | ~3–4 hours (varies by modules taken) | Paper-based + Oral | ✅ Currently Accepted |
| TCF Canada | French | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | ~2 hours 25 minutes | Paper-based + Oral | ✅ Currently Accepted |
When Will It Start?
Educational Testing Service (ETS), the organization behind TOEFL, has confirmed that it is working closely with IRCC to finalize the acceptance timeline and test locations. Applicants are advised to stay updated through official IRCC announcements to know exactly when TOEFL Essentials can be used for immigration applications.
Final Thoughts
The inclusion of TOEFL Essentials marks a positive step for Canada’s immigration system. It gives candidates more flexibility, helps reduce barriers, and ensures a fairer chance for skilled workers around the world to pursue permanent residence in Canada.
As soon as IRCC provides the official start date, this new option is expected to benefit a wide range of applicants preparing for Canada’s competitive immigration pathways.
