Note: Since the University of Ottawa is a bilingual university, the information it has provided is in either English or French, based on the language of the program.

Language Requirements

Language Requirements

  • If you are applying for an English-language program and you have not completed at least 3 years of full-time study in an institution where English is the only language of instruction, located in a country where English is an official language, you must submit your official score in one of the following University-approved language tests.
  • If you are applying for a French-language program and you have not completed at least 3 years of full-time study in an institution where French is the only language of instruction, located in a country where French is an official language, you must submit your official score in one of the following University-approved language tests.
  • Competency in English and French is compulsory for the Nutrition-Diététique program. If you apply to this program, you must pass a language proficiency test (with a minimum grade of at least 70%) prior to admission.
  • If you apply to Second-Language Teaching, you must have an excellent knowledge of the language you intend to teach. 
  • Please visit our website for the latest information.
Test Score
Minimum TOEFL Score

iBT Internet-based: 86 overall, with 22 in Writing

Home edition: 86 overall, with 22 in Writing

Essentials: 8.5 overall, with 8 in Writing, 8 in Listening and 8 in Speaking

Paper delivered: no overall score, 22 in Writing, 20 in Listening and Reading

University of Ottawa Institution Code: 0993
Minimum IELTS Score 6.5 (overall score) with 6.5 in Writing
Minimum CAEL Score 60 (overall score) with 60 in Writing
PTE (Pearson Test of English) 60 (overall score) with 60 in Writing
Other Test Scores Duolingo English Test: 120 (overall score), with 120 in literacy