Canada to Accept TOEFL Essentials for PR Applications

Canada’s immigration system is becoming even more flexible for skilled individuals and international applicants. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that ETS (Educational Testing Service) is now a designated language test provider, paving the way for the TOEFL Essentials test to be accepted for permanent residence (PR) applications through economic immigration programs.

While the rollout date has not yet been announced, this is a significant development for anyone planning to immigrate to Canada.

This update has been confirmed by ETS’s official statement (ets.org) and supported by other reliable sources such as the Economic Times and Immigration News Canada.

What’s Changing?

Until now, Canada has only accepted IELTS (General Training), CELPIP-General, and PTE Core as designated English tests for PR. With ETS now recognized as a test provider, TOEFL Essentials will soon join this list, giving applicants more options when proving language proficiency for programs such as:

  • Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades)

  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

  • Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

  • Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

This recognition means that once IRCC officially implements the change, applicants can submit TOEFL Essentials scores just like the other approved language tests.

What Is TOEFL Essentials and How Is It Different?

The TOEFL Essentials test is a modern, adaptive, 90-minute English-language test designed to measure communication skills for real-life and workplace settings.

Key benefits include:

  • Shorter Format: About 90 minutes, compared to 3 hours for TOEFL iBT.

  • Faster Results: Unofficial reading and listening scores immediately after the test, and full official scores in six days.

  • Unlimited Free Score Reporting: You can send results to multiple institutions without extra fees.

  • At-home Testing Available: Reducing travel and scheduling barriers.

This makes it a strong alternative for professionals and families who need flexible testing options or face long wait times for other tests.

What Does This Mean for Future PR Applicants?

Language proficiency is a core requirement in Canada’s points-based immigration system. Your scores directly affect your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points under Express Entry and can also influence eligibility for provincial immigration programs.

Adding TOEFL Essentials as an option provides:

  • Greater accessibility in regions where IELTS or CELPIP test centers are limited.

  • Potential cost savings, depending on availability in your country.

  • Faster timelines to meet application deadlines.

However, IRCC is not yet accepting TOEFL Essentials scores. ETS has confirmed they are collaborating with Canadian immigration authorities to finalize technical and administrative details. Applicants should monitor IRCC’s Designated Language Tests page for updates.

What Should You Do Right Now?

  • If you’re applying soon, continue using IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE Core to avoid delays.

  • If you’re planning for 2025–2026, TOEFL Essentials may become a valid and convenient choice when you apply.

  • Start preparing early, since the test is shorter and adaptive, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with its format using free practice resources on ets.org.

Final Thoughts

This is excellent news for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and families planning to settle in Canada. A new testing option means more flexibility, less scheduling stress, and potentially faster processing when submitting your PR application.

At Immigration Ways, we keep you ahead of the latest immigration updates. Our experts provide complete guidance to ensure your application is accurate, competitive, and ready for success.

👉 Book a free consultation with Immigration Ways today and take the first step toward your Canadian PR journey with confidence.

🗓 Published: 26 August 2025