New English proficiency requirements from University of Waterloo

March 8, 2016
Back to All Articles
Recently, many of our students from regions in Africa have received an email from the University of Waterloo asking them to submit an English Proficiency Test score.

CHANGE IN POLICY

The University Placement Office has worked hard to talk with Waterloo to find out what happened and what we can do. Waterloo has stated that their policy has changed, and if a student receives the email or if they see the request in their Quest account, despite sending in their transcripts from their previous school or a letter from their previous principal, the students will need to write an English Proficiency test.

APRIL 1 2016 DEADLINE

Waterloo has a preferred deadline for English Proficiency Tests of April 1. Luckily, Columbia International College is a testing centre for the IELTS, the most popular English Proficiency test. We advise students to register for the March 19 test, which would allow CIC to submit the test score to Waterloo by April 1. The passing score for IELTS at Waterloo is 7.0.

MARCH BREAK IELTS PREP COURSE

CIC also runs preparation workshops for students during the March Break. From March 14-17, CIC will run an IELTS preparation workshop and students from Africa are advised to attend to help them understand the contents of the test and give them the best chance for a passing score.

50% DISCOUNT FOR MARCH BREAK IELTS COURSE

In order to help our African students to be familiar with the IELTS, and due to the sudden nature of the request, CIC will offer a special 50% discount in the cost for the IELTS workshop. We would advise that students register as soon as possible. When they have achieved a passing score, they must then return to the External Testing Office to order an official copy of their test to be sent to Waterloo.

Please visit the University Placement Counsellors with any questions about this new policy.

Sweet Success: Raising 1,476.50 CAD for Furred Friends

March 29, 2026

Badminton Intramurals: Where Skill Meets Character

March 20, 2026

Character Breakfast Celebrating Self-Empowerment

March 17, 2026

Sharpening Real-World Skills at DECA Provincials

March 17, 2026

CIC Varsity Enjoys Raptors Experience on NBA Court

March 16, 2026

Former CEMC Director Leads Euclid Workshop at CIC

March 13, 2026
Here goes your text ... Select any part of your text to access the formatting toolbar.