Canada will soon start to accept TOEFL Essentials

IRCC has announced that permanent residency applicants will soon be able to give TOEFL Essentials as proof of English language ability.

The change came after the recognition of Educational Testing Service as a designated testing provider for Canadian immigration in August of TOEFL Essentialsthis year. While the test cannot yet be used for applications, IRCC stated that its website will carry updated instructions once the rollout begins.

It will be valid for all programs managed through Express Entry, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. The Atlantic Immigration Program is included as well, along with most Provincial Nominee Programs. Provinces and territories will retain the ability to decide on their own timelines for adoption, so implementation across PNPs may not happen uniformly.

TOEFL Essentials is designed as a shorter exam that reflects everyday communication skills. The test is completed in roughly 90 minutes and measures listening, reading, writing, and speaking through practical tasks. It is conducted at secure testing centres both in Canada and overseas. In contrast, the IELTS usually takes close to 3 hours to complete. It has a longer format that covers the same four skills but includes more detailed academic and general training components. TOEFL Essentials, with its shorter duration and faster score delivery, is seen as a more flexible alternative for applicants who prefer a quicker testing experience.

One feature highlighted by ETS is the quick turnaround of results. Test takers can see immediate unofficial scores for listening and reading. Full results are generally posted within six days, which will include speaking and writing results as well. Another benefit is that candidates may send their scores to any number of institutions without additional fees, which can reduce overall costs for those applying to multiple programs.

IRCC has relied on three main English exams till now. They were CELPIP, IELTS, and PTE Core. Scores from these tests are assessed using the Canadian Language Benchmarks system, which remains the standard framework for evaluating applicants’ language levels. TOEFL Essentials will join this list as the fourth option.

The inclusion of this exam is expected to expand the convenience for permanent residency candidates in Canada. It does not replace existing tests but adds another pathway for applicants who may find TOEFL Essentials more accessible. IRCC has made clear that the test will only be valid once its formal guidelines are updated, so candidates are advised to wait for that confirmation before booking their exam.