In a significant development for immigration hopefuls worldwide, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially recognized the TOEFL Essentials test as a valid English language proficiency exam for Canadian permanent residency (PR) applications. This announcement, made on August 21, 2025, introduces a third approved option alongside IELTS and CELPIP, offering applicants greater flexibility and accessibility. At MilkyWay Immigration, we welcome this progressive step. As a globally trusted immigration consultancy with offices in multiple locations worldwide, we specialize in guiding individuals and families through the complex immigration process. Our team of ICCRC (CICC) and MARA-certified consultants brings deep expertise and personalized support to help clients achieve their Canadian dreams, whether through skilled migration, student pathways, or family sponsorship.
A Global Step Toward Inclusive Immigration
Canada’s adoption of TOEFL Essentials as part of its immigration process signals a global movement toward more inclusive, technology-driven, and user-friendly systems that better serve the needs of modern applicants. As nations compete to attract top international talent, simplifying language testing requirements is a strategic move. TOEFL Essentials, with its remote testing options, affordable pricing, and global recognition, empowers applicants from developing countries, remote areas, and diverse educational backgrounds to participate in Canada’s skilled migration programs. This policy not only strengthens Canada’s global appeal but also sets a precedent for other countries to diversify their language assessment tools, making immigration more equitable and accessible worldwide.
Why This Matters: Expanding Language Test Options
Language proficiency plays a crucial role in Canada’s economic immigration programs. Until recently, applicants were limited to IELTS and CELPIP -both of which have specific formats and regional availability. The addition of TOEFL Essentials, developed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), introduces a shorter, more flexible alternative that caters to a wider range of applicants.
Key Features of TOEFL Essentials:
➢ Test Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours, significantly shorter than other options.
➢ Test Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking, plus a Personal Video Statement (not scored).
➢ Immediate Feedback: Unofficial scores for Listening and Reading available right after the test.
➢ Fast Results: Official scores delivered within six days.
➢ Unlimited Score Reports: Applicants can send scores to multiple institutions at no extra cost.
This format is especially beneficial for individuals in regions with limited access to IELTS or CELPIP test centers, or for those who prefer American English and a streamlined testing experience.
Which Immigration Programs Accept TOEFL Essentials?
IRCC’s approval of TOEFL Essentials extends to all major economic immigration streams, making it a versatile and widely applicable choice for prospective immigrants. Programs That Accept TOEFL Essentials are:
➢ Express Entry:
○ Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
○ Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
○ Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
➢ Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):
○ All 11 participating provinces and territories
➢ Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Whether you’re a skilled tradesperson, a tech professional, or an international graduate, TOEFL Essentials can now support your PR application, offering a more accessible route to Canada.
MilkyWay Immigration: Your Certified Partner in Success
For many applicants, understanding the ins and outs of immigration procedures and language benchmarks can be challenging. That’s where MilkyWay Immigration excels. With over a decade of experience and a strong global presence, we provide comprehensive support tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Why Choose MilkyWay Immigration?
● Certified Expertise: Our consultants are registered with ICCRC and MARA
● Personalized Guidance: Evaluating individual profiles, we recommend the most suitable immigration stream and language test.
● Complete Support: From preparing documents to test coaching and post-arrival services.
● Global Reach: Offices in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Australia and Canada ensure localized support and timely updates.
● Proven Success: Hundreds of successful PR, work permit, and student visa applications.
Whether you’re applying through Express Entry, a PNP, or another stream, our team ensures your language proficiency aligns with IRCC standards and enhances your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Strategic Considerations for Applicants
Although TOEFL Essentials has been approved, IRCC is still working with ETS to finalize operational details. This includes setting up testing locations, score submission protocols, and integrating the test into Canada’s immigration systems. This update aligns with Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, which emphasizes attracting skilled workers in sectors like healthcare, engineering, and trades. By offering more flexible testing options, Canada is removing barriers and opening doors to global talent.
Conclusion: A New Pathway to Your Canadian Dream
The approval of TOEFL Essentials by IRCC is more than a policy change—it’s a strategic move toward a more inclusive and accessible immigration system. For thousands of skilled professionals around the world, this means greater flexibility, faster results, and more opportunities to demonstrate their language proficiency. At MilkyWay Immigration, we’re ready to help you take full advantage of this new option. Our certified consultants will guide you through every step—from selecting the right test to submitting a strong PR application. With our proven track record and personalized approach, your journey to Canada is in expert hands.
