English Language Requirements

If your first language is not English and you have not studied in an English language school system for the most recent 4 years immediately before the month you begin your studies at Waterloo, you must provide one following tests with minium scores as listed for admission to the Faculty of Science:

Option 1

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Paper-based Test 580, TWE 4.5, TSE 45 or

Computer-based Test 237, Essay rating 4.5, TSE 45 or

Internet-based Test 90, writing 25, speaking 25

Option 2

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 7.0

Option 3

The Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): 85

Option 4

Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): 70 overall; 60 per band



These requirements are distinct from and additional to the requirement to present OAC English 1 (or equivalent) as an admission requirement.

Bilingual francophone Canadians educated in Canada are not required to meet these English test requirements.

More information on English language requirements and exemptions is available here.