Canada to announce a new language test for foreign students and Canadian permanent residence applicants

TOEFL Essentials is a comprehensive test that assesses four core language skills, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

Written by Sunil Dhawan

August 25, 2025 17:15 IST

Canada PR, language test requirements, foreign students, Canadian permanent residence, TOEFL Essentials test

IRCC has added ETS to its designated language testing organizations for the TOEFL Essentials test for Canadian permanent economic immigration applications. (Bloomberg)

Foreign students and permanent residence seekers in Canada will soon have another option to meet their English language test requirements. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has added ETS to its designated language testing organizations for the TOEFL Essentials test for Canadian permanent economic immigration applications.

Although IRCC is not yet accepting TOEFL Essentials scores, ETS is working with them to prepare for acceptance and will provide timing and test location details once confirmed.

TOEFL Essentials

TOEFL Essentials is one of the many English language tests that immigrants can take. “IRCC currently recognizes a number of English language proficiency tests for immigration and study purposes. TOEFL iBT has long been the trusted choice for students applying to Canadian universities and colleges. TOEFL Essentials is the newest addition, designated by IRCC for Canadian permanent economic immigration applications,” says Omar Chihane, Global General Manager of TOEFL at ETS.

TOEFL Essentials is a comprehensive test that assesses four core language skills, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking, and is designed to be completed in 1.5 hours at a secure center.

“The TOEFL Essentials test will be an option for individuals applying for Canadian permanent economic immigration. This includes applicants across key streams that support Canada’s need for talent in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, technology, and skilled trades. The test is designed to measure real-world communication skills needed to live and work in Canada, making it especially relevant for applicants from India and worldwide who plan to build their future there,” says Chihane.

There are cases where you may need to prove your ability in either English or French, such as when you apply for a job or to get into a university or college. Several language tests are widely accepted. They will give you a certificate and test results that you can use for many purposes.