Foreign nationals applying for Canadian permanent residency will soon have a new option to prove English proficiency. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept the TOEFL Essentials test in the near future. The official start date is not yet announced. IRCC will update its website once the test is approved.
This change expands testing options for candidates applying through Canada’s economic immigration programs. It gives more flexibility for proving English skills.
Who Can Use the TOEFL Essentials Test?
The new test will be available for candidates in the following programs:
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- Express Entry-managed programs
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Express Entry-managed programs
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
PNPs may choose whether to accept the TOEFL Essentials test, as program rules vary by province.
About the TOEFL Essentials Test
The TOEFL Essentials test measures four main English skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It uses practical tasks that reflect real-life communication.
- Duration: About 1.5 hours
- Location: Secure test centres in Canada and worldwide
The test also includes a short, unscored Personal Video Statement, which lets candidates demonstrate their speaking skills naturally.
Test Format
The test has four sections:
- Listening – Understand spoken English in academic and everyday situations.
- Reading – Comprehend short passages and answer questions.
- Writing – Express ideas clearly and organize text logically.
- Speaking – Record responses to real-life prompts.
Tasks are short and fast-paced, designed to reflect practical English use.
Scoring
- Instant Results: Listening and reading scores appear immediately after the test.
- Official Scores: Available online within six days.
- Score Sharing: Reports can be sent to unlimited institutions at no extra cost.
Other Language Tests Accepted by IRCC
IRCC currently accepts these tests for economic immigration:
- IELTS – International English Language Testing System
- CELPIP – Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program
- PTE Core – Pearson Test of English
All tests are measured against Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) to ensure candidates meet English language requirements.
Why This Change Matters
The addition of TOEFL Essentials gives candidates more flexibility. Some may find the test format more suitable to their learning style. Instant results for listening and reading also help candidates plan their immigration application faster.
With multiple testing options, candidates can choose the test that best fits their skills and schedule. This may increase accessibility for applicants from regions where certain tests are harder to access.
Preparing for the TOEFL Essentials Test
Candidates can improve scores by:
- Practicing listening and reading daily with English media.
- Writing short essays on familiar topics.
- Recording spoken responses and reviewing clarity.
- Using online sample tests to become familiar with the format.
As IRCC finalizes approval, candidates should monitor official updates for test dates and locations.
Conclusion
Canada’s decision to accept the TOEFL Essentials test adds flexibility for permanent residence applicants. It complements existing tests like IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE Core. The test measures practical English skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Candidates in Express Entry programs, AIP, and PNPs can soon use TOEFL Essentials to prove language proficiency. Preparing early and staying informed will help maximize chances for Canadian permanent residency.