Foreign nationals seeking to immigrate to Canada will soon have another way to prove their English language ability. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that it will begin accepting the TOEFL Essentials test, a new English proficiency option administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

While the test is not yet in use for immigration applications, ETS announced on August 21, 2025 that it has been officially added as a designated testing organization. IRCC will update its webpages once the test is formally recognized and available to candidates.

Who Will Benefit

The acceptance of TOEFL Essentials will apply to applicants under Canada’s permanent economic immigration programs, including:

• Express Entry programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) — noting that provinces and territories set their own requirements, so uptake may vary

About the TOEFL Essentials Test

The TOEFL Essentials test is designed to measure all four language skills—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—through task-based activities that reflect everyday communication.

• Length: About 1.5 hours

• Format: Four sections (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) plus a short, unscored Personal Video Statement

• Style: Mix of academic and general contexts with short, fast-paced tasks

• Availability: Secure test centres in Canada and worldwide

Other Language Tests Currently Accepted

IRCC currently recognizes three other English-language tests for economic immigration:

• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE Core)

All test scores are evaluated using the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) framework, which standardizes English proficiency levels across immigration programs. ETS has stated it is working closely with IRCC on the technical steps toward full acceptance of TOEFL Essentials. Details on timing and test centres will be published once confirmed. 

For now, candidates planning to immigrate through Canada’s economic streams should continue using one of the currently accepted tests. Those interested in TOEFL Essentials may wish to follow upcoming IRCC updates and official websites of each province to see when this new option officially becomes available.