August 28, 2025
Big Update: TOEFL Essentials Soon Accepted for Canadian PR Applications
Canada to Accept TOEFL Essentials for Permanent Residency Applications
Great news for future immigrants to Canada! Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that the TOEFL Essentials test will soon be accepted as proof of English language proficiency for Canadian permanent residence applications.
This update provides foreign nationals with another pathway to meet Canada’s language requirements under its economic immigration programs. While IRCC is not accepting the test just yet, it will officially update its website once the rollout begins.
What Does This Change Mean for Immigration to Canada?
On August 21, the Educational Testing Service (ETS)—the organization behind TOEFL—confirmed that it has been added as a designated testing provider by IRCC. This means candidates applying for permanent residency in Canada will soon be able to take the TOEFL Essentials test to demonstrate their English skills.
ETS is currently working closely with IRCC to finalize the timeline and test locations, and more details will be announced in the coming months.
Who Can Benefit from the TOEFL Essentials Test?
Once officially accepted, the TOEFL Essentials test will be valid for applicants applying through the following Canadian immigration 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) – Note: Each province has its own requirements, so acceptance of the TOEFL Essentials test may vary.
About the TOEFL Essentials Test
The TOEFL Essentials is designed to evaluate the four key English language skills—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—through practical, task-based activities that reflect real-world communication.
Key Features of the Test:
- Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
- Location: Conducted at secure test centres in Canada and worldwide
- Format: Includes Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections, plus an unscored Personal Video Statement
- Scoring:
- Instant unofficial results for Listening and Reading
- Official results available online within six days
- Free score reports to unlimited institutions
What English Language Tests Does Canada Currently Accept?
At present, IRCC accepts the following English tests for Canadian PR applications:
- CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE Core (Pearson Test of English)
The addition of TOEFL Essentials will make it easier for skilled workers, students, and professionals worldwide to prove their English proficiency for Canadian immigration.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming acceptance of the TOEFL Essentials test by IRCC is a welcome development for future immigrants. With its shorter format and real-life communication focus, it provides a flexible and reliable option for applicants looking to achieve Canadian permanent residency.
If you’re planning to apply for immigration to Canada under programs like Express Entry, PNP, or AIP, keep an eye out for IRCC’s official confirmation on when you can begin using the TOEFL Essentials test as part of your application.
About World Immigration
At World Immigration, we are dedicated to helping individuals and families successfully navigate the process of immigrating to Canada. From Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs to study permits and work visas, our expert team provides personalized guidance at every step.
Whether you’re a skilled worker, student, or professional looking to settle in Canada, we make your immigration journey smoother, faster, and stress-free.
Contact World Immigration today to start your Canadian immigration process with confidence.