IRCC to Approve TOEFL Essentials for Canada PR Applicants
A New Option for English Testing
Foreign nationals planning to move to Canada will soon have another way to prove their English skills. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) plans to accept the TOEFL Essentials test in the near future.
However, IRCC has not yet started accepting this test. They will update their official website once the new process officially begins. Therefore, applicants should keep an eye on IRCC’s announcements before booking the test.
Why Is This Important?
This update matters because it increases flexibility for people applying to Canada’s immigration programs. By adding the TOEFL Essentials test, IRCC will allow more applicants to demonstrate their English ability in a way that suits them best.
On August 21, ETS (Educational Testing Service), the organization that operates TOEFL, announced that IRCC has officially recognized it as a designated testing body. As a result, this recognition expands the number of trusted English testing options available to immigrants.
Moreover, this change reflects Canada’s ongoing efforts to make the immigration process more accessible and inclusive for international applicants.
What’s Next?
ETS is now collaborating with IRCC to finalize the next steps. They are discussing key details such as timelines, test centers, and official launch dates. Once everything is ready, ETS will publish full information on its website and other communication channels.
In the meantime, applicants can continue using the existing approved English tests. Preparing early ensures they won’t face last-minute issues once TOEFL Essentials becomes available.
Who Can Benefit From This Change?
The new option will benefit individuals applying through various immigration programs, 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)
Since each province manages its own rules under the PNP system, not all of them may accept TOEFL Essentials immediately. Therefore, candidates should confirm requirements with their respective provinces before registering for the test.
In addition, this update will be especially helpful for applicants living in areas where other English tests such as IELTS or CELPIP are not easily available..
About TOEFL Essentials
The TOEFL Essentials test evaluates four core English language skills — listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Unlike traditional tests, it focuses more on real-world communication rather than academic theory.
- Duration: Around 1.5 hours
- Availability: At secure test centers in Canada and worldwide
In addition to the main sections, there is also a short Personal Video Statement, where test-takers briefly introduce themselves. This part is unscored but gives institutions a more personal impression of the candidate.
Test Format
The exam includes four main sections:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
In addition, there’s a short Personal Video Statement (unscored), where you introduce yourself.
How Scoring Works
- Instant Results: Listening and Reading scores are shown immediately after the test.
- Final Scores: Official results are posted online within 6 days or sooner.
- Score Reports: Can be sent to unlimited institutions for free.
Other Accepted English Tests
At present, IRCC accepts three other English-language tests for immigration:
- CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE Core (Pearson Test of English)
All test results are compared using Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).
Who Can Benefit From This Change?
The new test will be available for people applying under these programs:
- 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)
Since provinces run their own PNP rules, not all provinces may accept TOEFL Essentials right away.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the introduction of the TOEFL Essentials test will give future immigrants another reliable option to prove their English proficiency. While IRCC has not yet opened applications with this test, its upcoming inclusion shows Canada’s commitment to providing more accessible and flexible immigration pathways.
Until then, candidates should keep track of official updates and continue preparing with the currently accepted language tests. Once the new test becomes available, it will likely make the process easier and more convenient for thousands of applicants worldwide.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
