Good news for international students! TOEFL iBT test approved for faster study permit processing in Canada’s SDS program. ETS, the organization behind TOEFL, announced today that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) had given the green light for using TOEFL scores in the Student Direct Stream. This program fast-tracks study permit applications for students from 14 countries who want to study at designated learning institutions in Canada.
Latest Update
“TOEFL iBT Test Shortened by ETS: Now 2 Hours Instead of 3.”
Starting from July 26, 2023, the Education Testing Service (ETS) has made an important announcement regarding the TOEFL iBT test. In order to give a more efficient and streamlined experience, the test duration will be shortened by one hour. Previously spanning three hours, the TOEFL iBT test will now be completed within a two-hour timeframe. This update aims to make the test more accessible and convenient for test-takers while maintaining its reliability and effectiveness in assessing English language proficiency.
Starting from August 10, 2023, Canadian higher learning institutions will accept Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT scores as part of the SDS application. If you meet all the (necessary) eligibility criteria, your SDS application will be processed within just 20 calendar days, as confirmed by the IRCC.
What Is the TOEFL Test?
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a widely recognized English language proficiency test that assesses the ability of non-native speakers to understand, speak, read, and write English. For many years, the TOEFL has been accepted as a requirement for admission to various universities along with colleges in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries.
However, in recent years, a shift has occurred, and more universities and colleges in Canada have started accepting the TOEFL as an official language proficiency test for admissions.
The Importance of English Language Proficiency Tests
The reason why many universities and colleges require and accept English language proficiency tests such as the TOEFL is to ensure that students are able to communicate effectively in English. As English is the primary language of instruction in Canada, universities, and colleges require proof of English proficiency to ensure that students are able to keep up with the coursework and participate in academic discussions.
Traditionally, many universities and colleges in Canada have accepted the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language) tests as official language proficiency tests.
However, recently more and more universities and colleges in Canada have started accepting the TOEFL as a recognized language proficiency test. Currently, over 300 Canadian universities and colleges accept the TOEFL as a valid measure of English proficiency.
Advantages of Accepting the TOEFL for Higher Learning Institutions in Canada
There are several advantages associated with accepting the TOEFL for university and college admissions in Canada. Here are some of the most significant ones:
Wider Range of Applicants
By accepting the TOEFL, universities, and colleges in Canada are opening themselves up to a wider range of international students, as opposed to just students from countries where the IELTS or CAEL is more accessible. This provides Canadian institutions with a more diverse pool of applicants, which is beneficial for both the students and the institution.
Increased Convenience
The TOEFL is a computer-based test that can be taken at over 4,000 test centers in more than 160 countries worldwide. This means that students, especially those who wish to apply to Canadian universities and colleges, can take the test in their home country without having to travel to Canada or another country to take the test.
Better Assessment of Speaking and Listening Skills
One of the advantages of the TOEFL over other English language proficiency tests is that it includes a Speaking section. The Speaking section assesses a student’s ability to communicate orally in English, which is critical for academic participation and success.
Additionally, the Listening section of the TOEFL assesses listening skills in academic contexts, which is more relevant to university and college coursework than the listening sections of other English language proficiency tests.
Recognition of Test-Takers’ Efforts
The TOEFL is a widely recognized test that is taken by 100s of thousands of students around the world every year. By accepting the TOEFL, Canadian universities and colleges are acknowledging the hard work and effort that non-native speakers have put into learning English and preparing for the test.
The acceptance of the TOEFL by Canadian universities and colleges is a positive development for both international students and higher learning institutions. By accepting the TOEFL, Canadian universities and colleges are opening themselves up to a wider range of international students, simplifying the admissions process, better assessing speaking and listening skills, and recognizing the efforts of non-native English speakers.
As an expert blogger, it is recommended that students preparing to apply to Canadian universities and colleges should take the TOEFL to ensure that they meet the English language proficiency requirements. Additionally, Canadian universities and colleges that are not yet accepting the TOEFL should consider doing so to start reaping the benefits of this widely recognized test.