English language requirements

Before you start your degree program at TMU, will you complete four years of full-time study at the high school level in:

1. Canada
2. Another country where English is the first language (please refer to the list of exempt countries/territories)
3. A school where English is the primary language of instruction

If you answered yes to any of the above, you are not required to write an English language proficiency test.

Before you start your degree program at TMU, will you: 

1. Successfully complete a two or three-year diploma program at a public, accredited college where English is the first language of the country (see the list of exempt countries/territories) and the language of instruction at the institution (program/courses cannot be EAL/ESL).
2. Successfully complete one year of full-time, degree-level study at an accredited university where English is the first language of the country (see the list of exempt countries/territories) and the language of instruction at the institution (courses cannot be EAL/ESL)

If you answered yes to any of the above, you are not required to write an English language proficiency test.

English language pathway programs at the English Language Institute are open to academically qualified students who have achieved English proficiency test scores that don't meet TMU's English language requirements. Visit the English Language Institute for more information about pathway programs, requirements and how to apply.

You are not required to write an English language proficiency test if you complete one of the following qualifications before you start your degree program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU):

Undergraduate degree programs - minimum English proficiency requirements

Requirements reflect overall scores. There are no minimum requirements for band scores (e.g. reading, writing, speaking, listening). Subject to change. Use as a guideline only.

It is in your best interest to write your English proficiency test and have the score submitted to TMU as soon as possible. Your application will not be considered complete without your test score.

For fall 2025, the deadline date to provide a test score is April 1, 2025.

Your English proficiency status can be found in your ChooseTMU Applicant Portal.

If you are applying to the fall 2025 English Boost program offered by the English Language Institute, you must provide an English proficiency test score by Friday, October 3, 2025.

If you’re an international student applying for admission to winter 2026, the deadline date is November 4, 2025. Please review the list of available programs for international students.

You must include your complete academic history on your application (all secondary and post-secondary schools attended). Your academic transcripts must be submitted via your ChooseTMU Applicant Portal (with the exception of current Ontario secondary school students) in order for us to verify your English proficiency.

All applicants, including those who must submit proof of English language proficiency, are required to present a senior level English course (equivalent to a Grade 12 U English course in Ontario). TMU will not accept Grade 12 U English, the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT), or equivalent in lieu of a test of English language proficiency.

TMU reserves the right to request proof of English language proficiency, in the form of an English language test score or alternate documentation, from any applicant regardless of background.