🇨🇦 Burnaby, Canada
IELTS Requirements at Simon Fraser University — Scores & Tips
Simon Fraser University in Canada requires IELTS Academic for international student admissions. The minimum overall band score is 6.5 for undergraduate programmes and 7.0 for postgraduate programmes. Requirements may vary by department and programme.
6.5 UG Minimum
7.0 PG Minimum
IELTS Academic Module Required
QS #328 Ranking
IELTS Score Requirements at Simon Fraser University
| Level of Study | Overall Minimum | Component Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (UG) | 6.5 | 6.0 each |
| Postgraduate (PG) | 7.0 | 6.5 each |
This university requires IELTS Academic. General Training scores are not accepted for degree-level admissions.
About IELTS Requirements at Simon Fraser University
SFU requires 6.5 overall for undergraduate programmes. Graduate requirements vary by department, with many expecting 7.0.
View official English language requirements at Simon Fraser University
IELTS Tips for Simon Fraser University Applicants
- •Always check the specific programme page on the Simon Fraser University website. Requirements can differ between departments and even between courses within the same faculty.
- •If your score is 0.5 to 1.0 bands below the requirement, check whether Simon Fraser University offers a pre-sessional English course. Many universities provide conditional admission with a language bridge programme.
- •Pay close attention to individual component requirements. Many programmes at Simon Fraser University set a higher minimum for Writing because academic writing is critical for coursework and dissertations.
- •IELTS results are valid for two years. Plan your test date so your scores are current both when you apply and when you enrol at Simon Fraser University.
- •Canadian universities widely accept IELTS Academic. For immigration pathways (study permit + post-graduation work permit), your IELTS score may also affect your CRS points for Express Entry after graduating from Simon Fraser University.
- •Many Canadian provinces have their own immigration programmes. Your IELTS score for admission to Simon Fraser University may also count toward Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP) requirements.
- •Canadian graduate programmes often require higher Listening and Speaking scores due to the emphasis on seminar-style teaching. Practise with Canadian-accented materials for Simon Fraser University.
- •IELTS results for Canadian student visa applications must be from an IELTS test centre approved by IRCC. Verify your test centre before booking.
- •Some Canadian universities, including Simon Fraser University, accept IELTS One Skill Retake — you can retake a single section within 60 days if one component score is low.
Frequently Asked Questions: IELTS for Simon Fraser University
What IELTS score do I need for Simon Fraser University?
Simon Fraser University requires a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 for undergraduate programmes and 7.0 for postgraduate programmes. Some departments and specific courses may have higher requirements.
Does Simon Fraser University accept IELTS General Training?
Most universities, including Simon Fraser University, require IELTS Academic for degree-level admissions. A small number of institutions accept General Training for certain programmes. Always check the specific requirements on the university's admissions page.
Does Simon Fraser University offer pre-sessional English courses?
Many universities, including Simon Fraser University, offer pre-sessional English courses for applicants who score 0.5 to 1.0 bands below the requirement. Check the university website for current availability and entry criteria.
How long are IELTS scores valid for Simon Fraser University admissions?
IELTS scores are typically valid for two years from the test date. Simon Fraser University requires that your scores be current at the time of application and enrolment.
Can I use my IELTS for Simon Fraser University for Express Entry too?
IELTS Academic is accepted for university admission, but Express Entry requires IELTS General Training for most categories. You may need to take both tests if you plan to apply for permanent residency after studying at Simon Fraser University.
Does Simon Fraser University accept IELTS One Skill Retake?
An increasing number of Canadian universities accept IELTS One Skill Retake results. Check Simon Fraser University's admissions page for the most current policy on retake scores.
Sources & References
- •Official admissions and English language requirements page at Simon Fraser University
- •IELTS Official — ielts.org — Test information and global recognition data
Requirements were last verified in March 2026. University admission requirements may change with policy updates. Always verify requirements directly with the university before submitting applications.
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