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Proof of Language Proficiency

If you cannot meet the language requirements, we can help. Find out more about our English for Academic Purposes program.

The language of instruction at Holland College is English. All applicants are required to demonstrate English language proficiency prior to commencing studies at Holland College. You may demonstrate proficiency in one of two ways:

  1. Proof that you have studied at a full-time post-secondary school for a minimum of 3 consecutive years where the language of instruction and examination was English (as recognized by Holland College).  This education must have been completed within two years of date of application to Holland College. Please note that this requirement does not include time enrolled in an EAL program.  Evidence of bilingualism (English and another language) is acceptable for those applicants educated in Canada in a language other than English; 
    OR
  2. Submission of an official test score at or above the acceptable minimum from one of the following tests:
Column 1 outlines the accepted tests and column 2 outlines the required score to meet HC English language proficiency requirements
TEST Score Required
IELTS - Academic Overall score of 6.5 with no other band below 6
Cambridge B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency Overall score of 176 with no other band below 169
Holland College English Proficiency Test 4.5 in each section
TOEFL - paper based Manual score of 550
TOEFL - internet based test 85
CAEL Overall Score 60, with minimum 50 in each band
Pearson Test of English 58
CLLC Completion of level 6 or higher
Quest Minimum 75
Study Abroad Canada Language Institute Completion of Intensive English Program – Level 8

Holland College English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program and Language Instruction for Newcomers (LINC)

CLB level 8
NOTE: Only applicable for students who have been registered in either the EAP or LINC program.

International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC)

Completion of Pathway Program Level 3.3 with a final coursework score of 75% and IELTS practice test score of 99/120)

In order for us to waive the language proficiency requirement, you must have graduated from a Canadian high school and have completed English 621 in P.E.I. or the equivalent in another province with a minimum grade of 70%.

English proficiency results must be current.