Introduction

Language Proficiency Requirements (LPR) in the Admission Requirements are a crucial part of successfully applying to a program offered at Ascentia. This page provides the support and guidance you need to meet these requirements and achieve your educational goals.

Please Note: LPR is a minimum baseline for all programs. However, some programs may have additional language proficiency requirements. Be sure to check the specific requirements for your chosen program to ensure you meet all necessary criteria.

What are Language Proficiency Requirements, and why are they important?

Language Proficiency Requirements (LPR) are important for making sure that all students have the necessary language skills to succeed in their academic programs. When students meet these requirements, they are more likely to fully engage with their classes and complete their studies successfully. This means they can understand and discuss educational materials clearly, both in speaking and writing, no matter how complex the content may be.

It’s important to note that LPR applies to all applicants, regardless of their citizenship status or country of origin. By focusing on language proficiency, we not only create a supportive learning environment but also help students develop the communication skills they need to succeed in their future careers.

How do I Meet LPR?

There are two ways to meet LPR: 1. Evidence of English Education or 2. Scores from a Standardized English Test.

Evidence of English Education

If you are a Canadian citizen or from one of the approved English-speaking countries, this option should be the easiest for you. You can meet LPR simply by providing any of the following:

• High school diploma showing that you graduated from a recognized high school.
• High school transcript showing that you attended at least 3 years of high school, starting from Grade 8.
• Diploma from an Adult Graduation Program, such as BC’s Dogwood Diploma.
• Diploma or transcript showing that you attended for at least 2 years in a recognized post-secondary institution (trade schools, colleges, or universities, etc.)

Please note that language courses such as ESL cannot be considered in this calculation.

If the above applies to you, the educational institution you attended should be able to help you. Each province should have a service that allows you to request high school transcripts, such as BC’s Student Transcripts Service (STS).

Scores from a Standardized English Test

If you don’t have any of the above, you can still meet the LPR by providing score results from a Standardized English Test. At Ascentia, we accept the following test scores:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic: overall score of 5.5
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT: Overall score of 46
• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP): Listening 6, Speaking 6, Reading 5, and Writing 5
• Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): Overall Score of 40
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A): Overall score of 43
• Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum overall score of 95
• Cambridge Linguaskill, LANGUAGECERT Academic, or The Michigan English Test (MET): Minimum overall B2 level
• iTEP Academic: Minimum overall score of 3.5
• EIKEN: Minimum placement of Grade Pre-1

If you already have the scores mentioned above, Ascentia is listed in their database. You should be able to send your scores securely through their online service, if available. Alternatively, a PDF or scanned copy of your scores will also be acceptable.

If you have not yet obtained any scores and are thinking about taking a test, we highly recommend the Duolingo English Test — it is cost-effective and provides fast results. Visit englishtest.duolingo.com/applicants to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have More Questions?

Our knowledgeable admissions advisor is available to assist you. Feel free to contact us or call 250-999-8733 to schedule a call.