Carleton University

English as a Second Language (ESL)

English language requirements for future international students

For admission, you must demonstrate that your knowledge and use of English are strong enough to study in an English language university.

ESL Overview

The language of instruction at Carleton University is English. To be admitted, applicants must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency for academic success. Applicants can demonstrate their English language proficiency in one of the following ways:

Proof of English language Education

Applicants may submit transcripts showing they have studied full-time for the past three years in one of the following settings:

• A Canadian high school where English was the primary language of instruction.
• A high school, college or university in a country where English is the primary language and the institution’s instruction was predominantly in English. See the list of eligible countries/territories listed below.

Important notes:

• Time spent in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses do not count towards meeting the three-year requirement.
• Letters from educators will not waive the language requirement.
• If a student submits both transcripts and an English language test score, Carleton reserves the right to reassess the admission decision.

English Language Test Results / Qualifications

Students may submit official English language test scores / qualifications. See the list of accepted tests and score requirements / qualifications in the tables below.

Note: Carleton may request a test from any applicant, regardless of academic background.

Table 1: Admission with no further ESL requirement

Students who submit any of the scores shown in Table 1 below may be eligible for an offer with no further ESL requirement and may begin full-time degree studies.

Table 1 Applicants whose first language is French must present transcripts to indicate that they have taken four years of anglais (English) in a Canadian secondary school to be admitted without an English as a Second Language Requirement.

Table 2: Admission with an ESL requirement (Academic ESL courses required)

Students with scores shown in Table 2 below may be admitted with an English as a Second Language Requirement (ESLR). In the first term(s) of study, students will be required to take Academic ESL along with a limited number of courses from their degree program. This admission with an ESLR allows students to earn academic credits from degree courses taken while completing the English requirements.

Table 2 Please note that students beginning their studies with an English language requirement are not eligible for admission to the following programs:

• Architectural Studies
• Health Sciences
• Humanities
• Industrial Design
• Information Technology
• International Business
• Journalism
• Journalism and Humanities
• Media Production and Design
• Nursing
• Public Affairs and Policy Management
• All Post Baccalaureate Diplomas

Academic ESL

Academic ESL courses allow students to begin their degree and study academic courses while completing the English as a Second Language Requirement (ESLR). This can take up to three terms to complete and consists of three levels of English as a Second Language courses (ESLA) which focus on the academic skills needed for university study. ESLA course(s) are taken concurrently with a limited number of degree courses. Students admitted with an ESLR will have their level of English language proficiency reviewed and assessed by the School of Linguistics and Language Studies (SLaLS). Students will receive an ESLA placement indicating the ESLA course level they have been placed into and how many additional credits they are permitted to register in at the same time as their ESLA course. Students admitted with this requirement should check Carleton 360 to see their ESLA placement (see VIEW or DISPLAY HOLDS). During the registration period, students must register in the appropriate ESLA course in order to be permitted to register in any other degree program credits they may be entitled to. Academic ESL courses:

Note: As students progress through the ESL courses, their ESLA placements and course credit limits will be adjusted based on previous ESLA final grades (see the ‘What you need to know about ESLA‘ page for details). For more information on ESLR, please contact the School of Linguistics and Language Studies (SLaLS).

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About Carleton

A Smart, Caring, Inclusive Community

At Carleton University, we push boundaries, challenge perspectives and turn knowledge into action. Rooted in Canada’s capital, we connect world-class researchers, industry leaders and over 30,700 students to tackle the most pressing global concerns. Through collaboration and innovation, we don’t just seek answers — we create solutions that shape a more sustainable, prosperous future.

Ottawa, Canada’s National Capital

Ottawa is more than Canada’s capital — it’s a centre of innovation, opportunity and natural beauty, and Carleton University is at its heart. Situated on unceded Algonquin Anishinàbeg territory beside the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Rideau Canal, our centrally located campus is easily accessible by transit and just minutes from downtown. With over a million residents, Ottawa blends global-city advantages with a small-community feel. It’s a diverse tech hub, home to major industries, international companies and leading research institutions, making an ideal place for academic and career success.

Governance & Administration

As a bicameral institution, Carleton University’s governance is shared by the Board of Governors and the Senate. The University Governance Secretariat links these governing bodies with the university’s administration.

Board of Governors

As the university’s corporate body, the Board of Governors oversees budgetary and infrastructure decisions and appoints senior executives.

More info

Senate

As the university’s highest academic body, the Senate oversees key decisions on programs, curriculum and academic regulations.

More info

University Leadership

Carleton’s senior leadership team provides strategic direction and oversight, guiding the university’s academic, research and student-focused priorities. Through formal decision-making and accountability structures, they ensure Carleton’s continued growth and success.

Facts & Figures

Carleton University is a leader in innovative education, groundbreaking research and community impact. With a vibrant student population, world-class faculty and cutting-edge facilities, our numbers tell a story of growth and excellence. Explore key facts and figures that showcase Carleton’s strengths, from enrolment and research funding to rankings and achievements.

• #4 in Canada amongst comprehensive universities
• 5 Faculties with 65+ programs
• 87.7% Graduate Employment in a related field
• Top 5 Student Satisfaction in Canada
• 3rd Largest Co-Op Program in Ontario
• 5 km of Underground Tunnels connecting all buildings

Reports

Carleton University is guided by a suite of strategic plans and reports that shape our future. From the Strategic Integrated Plan to strategies for research, sustainability, equity and student success, these frameworks drive innovation, excellence and community impact. Explore the key initiatives that strengthen Carleton’s leadership in education, research and engagement.

Strategic Integrated Plan

Following extensive consultation, the Strategic Integrated Plan (SIP) was approved by Carleton’s Senate and Board of Governors in the spring of 2020.

Inspired by the unique triangular shape of the beautiful Carleton campus, the SIP outlines three strategic directions:

• Share Knowledge, Shape the Future
• Serve Ottawa, Serve the World
• Strive for Wellness, Strive for Sustainability

The SIP lays out an ambitious vision for the future, fully anchored in Carleton’s strengths and student-centric, community-engaged values.

Read our beautifully designed Strategic Integrated Plan and the Strategic Integrated Plan Progress Update 2023.

Campus-Wide Strategies and Plans
A number of strategic documents already developed or in development support and operationalize the aspirations described in the university’s SIP. Other strategies and plans will also emerge over time as the work of planning and implementing is never done.

• Academic Plan
• Campus Master Plan
• Canada Research Chairs Program Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Action Plan
• Coordinated Accessibility Strategy
• Employability Framework: Developing Career Ready Students
• Energy Master Plan
• Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Action Plan
• Finance and Administration Strategy
• Healthy Workplace Strategic Plan
• Honouring Each Other: Building Consent Cultures on Campus, Together – Sexual Violence Prevention and Education Strategy
• International Strategic Plan
• Kinàmàgawin (Learning Together) – Final Report of the Carleton University Strategic Indigenous Initiatives Committee (CUSIIC)
• Shaping the Future: Carleton University’s Digital Strategy and Roadmap
• Strategic Mandate Agreements
• Strategic Plan for Community Engagement [SP4CE]
• Strive for Sustainability – Comprehensive Sustainability Plan
• Student Mental Health Framework
• Students and Enrolment Strategic Plan
• Teaching and Learning Framework

SMA Report Backs

The Strategic Mandate Agreement (SMA) Report Back is a document intended to publicly report on common metrics within the Ontario postsecondary system, and provide other updates on the SMAs between universities and the Ontario Government. Previous to 2014, the Report Backs were referred to as Multi-Year Accountability Report Backs.

• 2017-18 Strategic Mandate Agreement Report Back
• 2015-16 Strategic Mandate Agreement Report Back
• 2014-15 Strategic Mandate Agreement Report Back
• 2013-14 Multi-Year Accountability Agreement Report
• 2012-13 Multi-Year Accountability Agreement Report
• 2011-12 Multi-Year Accountability Agreement Report
• 2010-11 Multi-Year Accountability Agreement Report
• 2009-10 Multi-Year Accountability Agreement Report
• 2008-09 Multi-Year Accountability Agreement Report
• 2007-08 Multi-Year Accountability Agreement Report
• 2006-07 Multi-Year Accountability Agreement Report
• Multi-Year Agreement with Government of Ontario: 2006-07 to 2008-09
  • Interim Accountability Agreement, January 2006

Our History

Carleton University has a rich history rooted in community spirit and a commitment to accessible education. Established in 1942 as Carleton College, the institution was born out of a vision to provide opportunities for young people in Ottawa, many of whom were working to support themselves in the wake of the Great Depression. Unlike other Ontario universities, Carleton was founded as a non-denominational college, supported in part by charitable donations from the local community.

“I learned very early the life lesson that it is people, not buildings, that make up an institution. And if we put our hearts to it we can do something worthwhile.”

– Henry Marshall Tory, Carleton University’s founding president

Founding

Carleton’s journey began with night courses offered for academic credit at the High School of Commerce, now known as Glebe Collegiate Institute. A group of forward-thinking citizens, along with support from the federal government, worked to ensure students had the chance to build their careers following the economic hardships of the Depression and the demands of the Second World War. This commitment to education laid the foundation for what would become one of Canada’s leading post-secondary institutions.

On June 18, 1942, a pivotal moment in Carleton’s history took place at the Fairmont Château Laurier. It was there that the Ottawa Association for the Advancement of Learning was established to oversee the operation of Carleton College. At the same meeting, the first board of governors was elected and Henry Marshall Tory — renowned for his role in founding the University of Alberta, the National Research Council and what would later become the University of British Columbia — was appointed Carleton’s first president and chair of the board.

Today

From its modest beginni ngs, Carleton rapidly evolved into a leading research and teaching institution. Now situated on a scenic 100-acre campus between the Rideau River and Rideau Canal, it is home to more than 30,700 students and over 1,050 internationally recognized faculty driving groundbreaking research.

Carleton has built a strong reputation in fields such as journalism, international affairs, engineering, architecture and high technology. Its interdisciplinary approach to education, combined with hands-on learning experiences and strategic partnerships with the federal government, other universities and industry leaders, continues to shape its identity as an institution committed to excellence and innovation. Carleton also boasts a global network of more than 188K alumni with over 45 international chapters, fostering connections and collaborations across industries and continents.

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USA and International Costs

Planning your finances

A university education is a big investment. It’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your future. It’s important to consider both the costs of tuition and living as well as your career opportunities after graduation.

Tuition and living costs

Here is how much you can expect to pay in an academic year at Carleton University.

*Current exchange rates can be found at bankofcanada.ca.
**Tuition and student fees include the 2025-2026 University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) for one person for 12 months.
***Based on 8-month academic year

For program-specific tuition fees, please visit Carleton’s Student Accounts Receivable website

Please note that all study permit applications must show that the applicant meets the financial requirements established by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, which may be higher than the living expenses shown here.

Cost and Fees

Tuition rates vary depending on the Carleton program you are applying for, as well as other factors. Your tuition and ancillary fees* per term can be estimated using Carleton’s fee estimator. The quoted amounts include both the compulsory fees and optional non-tuition fees in their totals.

Note that the fee estimator calculates fees for a specified term. Most graduate programs require summer registration, which will increase your annual fees. It is important therefore to account for all relevant terms (fall, winter, and spring/summer) in your budget estimates.

Tuition fees estimator

It is also important to account for other expenses beyond tuition and fees in your annual budget. The following includes some important costs to consider:

Note: these are only rough estimates of additional expenses. Your actual annual costs will vary depending on your specific lifestyle and situation. For instance, accommodation costs can often be significantly reduced through shared accommodations (i.e. roommates). Additional budgeting tools and information can be found here.

*Tuition and ancillary fees are estimates.

** If your registration status is full-time, the U-Pass (Universal Transit Pass) amount is included in your fall term fees. The U-Pass is for current students only. Dependents will be required to buy a PRESTO card or use bus tickets. octranspo.com

International Students

International students please note the following:

• International student tuition fees are subject to an annual increase of 5% to 8% pending Senate approval. Official tuition fee information is available on the Student Accounts Receivable website.
• All study permit applications must show the applicant meets financial requirements established by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, which may be higher than living expenses shown here.
• International student fees also include a 12-month mandatory University Health Insurance Plan as shown below:

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Richard Van Loon Scholarship 2025-26 ($5,000)

Application deadline: February 1, 2026

Awarded annually, on the recommendation of the Richard J. Van Loon Scholarship Committee, this scholarship is intended for an outstanding international student from an African country. Eligible recipients will be full-time students proceeding from one year to another in any program at Carleton University with a valid study permit. Consideration will be given to students in financial need.

Application details: The application form can be found on the Awards Office website.

Ontario-Ukraine Solidarity Scholarship ($10,000)

Application form for 2025-2026 is now open

Carleton University has been provided four (4) competitive scholarships to be awarded based on financial need and merit, which includes academic achievement, community service and/or perseverance of dedication to their education, to full-time students impacted by the Ukrainian conflict and students impacted by other conflicts. The scholarships are valued at $10,000 each for the 2025-2026 academic year only (i.e., cannot be deferred to a later academic year).

Application details: The application form and eligibility details can be found on the Awards Office website. Application deadline: February 1, 2026

International Graduate Student Award (up to $500)

The GSA International Student Award was created to help alleviate the financial burdens international students incur while obtaining university degrees. The GSA recognizes that international graduate students make a significant contribution to graduate student life on campus while facing additional financial barriers, including much higher tuition fees and limited rights to work off-campus. Applicants must be members of the GSA. Please complete the application at the GSA Awards website.

For any questions email occ@gsacarleton.ca or gsa@gsacarleton.ca

Marie Odette Gabrielle Clay Memorial Award ($1,300)

Application deadline for 2025 has closed. 2026 details coming late December

Awarded annually to an undergraduate international student, who is a) proceeding from one year to another, and b) has been involved in student life. Recipients are selected by members of the International Student Services Office.

Donor: Friends and family of Marie Odette Gabrielle Clay, B.A. 1988. Endowed 2000.

Application details: Complete the application form and attach your resume and copy of your transcript at the Memorial Award application page.

The successful recipient will be notified by the Awards Office mid-March.

International House Award ($850)

Application deadline for 2025 has closed. 2026 details coming late December

Awarded to an international undergraduate student who is a) in their graduating year attending Carleton University on a student visa who, and b) in addition to maintaining the academic levels of the degree program, has been an active participant in extracurricular activities in the University. Recipients are selected by members of the International Student Services Office.

Donor: International House. Endowed 1972.

Application details: Complete the application form and attach your resume and copy of your transcript at the International House Award application page.

The successful recipient will be notified by the Awards Office mid-March.

Other Scholarships

Visit the Awards Office site for student scholarship, bursary and loan information. The Awards Office is located on 2nd floor of Robertson Hall or you can email awards@carleton.ca

For additional scholarship opportunities outside of the DFATD International Scholarships Program, please visit the websites below which may include scholarship mechanisms of interest to you.

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Immigration

I need school documents for my application for a study permit, visa, or Post-Graduation Work Permit. I’m unable to order them from Carleton Central. Is it because I have an outstanding balance in my Student Account?

If you owe money to Carleton, a “financial hold” is placed on your registration documents at Carleton Central. If you are able to pay off the balance, the hold will be released. If you are not able to pay off the balance, and you are facing an immigration deadline such as a study permit expiry date, contact the ISSO. We may be able to facilitate a solution with Student Accounts so that you can submit your application on time.

I submitted an in-Canada application to IRCC, and I am waiting for their decision. How long will it take to get my new study permit, work permit, or Temporary Resident Visa? What can I do while I am waiting?

IRCC publishes processing times for various types of applications. These are estimates and not service guarantees.

If you submitted a study permit renewal application before the expiry date on your old permit, and if you have remained in Canada, you may continue to study and work as authorized by a study permit as usual, even if your current permit has expired while you are waiting. Your Social Insurance Number remains valid.

If you submitted a Co-op Work Permit Application, you can work as authorized by your study permit until you have the work permit.

If you are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, and you submitted your application while you had a valid study permit, then you may be authorized to work without a work permit until you get the decision from IRCC. See the complete eligibility details in the ISSOs PGWP Application Guide.

If you need a new Temporary Resident Visa, then you should remain in Canada until your application is approved and the new visa is inserted into your passport. If you leave Canada, you won’t be able to return without a valid visa. (There is an exception if you have a valid study permit and travel only to the United States.)

I’m doing an online application at the Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. How do I upload an extra document when there is no line for it?

The ISSO often recommends that students include additional documents to make their study permit or work permit application clearer or more convincing.

The IRCC online application takes only one PDF document for each “Upload” button. However, you can combine several PDFs into one file and then upload that. If you don’t know how to do this on your computer, there are free websites that offer a “merge PDF” function.

You can also use the “Client Information” line for additional documents. It is most important to include all your documents, without worrying about where they go.

Should I hire a lawyer or consultant for my immigration application?

Many Carleton students are able to prepare their own study and work permit applications. IRCC’s online system is easy to use, and the ISSO provides information and support for immigration applications.

If you pay someone to do an immigration application for you, make sure they are an Authorized Representative under Canadian law: a lawyer, paralegal, Quebec notary, or Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant. These professionals are members of regulatory bodies that work to protect consumers against fraud and unethical practices. You can check if someone is authorized by visiting the Government of Canada law society directory.

An Authorized Representative will always ask you to sign an IMM 5476 Use of Representative form, found on the IRCC site, to include with your application. Using an unauthorized or undeclared representative is illegal and may lead to a refusal of your application.

Applications prepared by Authorized Representatives don’t get faster processing times or other preferential treatment from IRCC.

Learn more about Authorized Representatives from the IRCC’s website.

Still have questions? Connect with us through the ISSO’s Contact Us page!

Study Permits and Study Permit Conditions

I’m an international student and I would like to take a break from my studies. How can I do that?

Most international students must remain enrolled in school while they are in Canada in order to maintain the validity of their study permit and their eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

There are some exceptions to this rule. For example:

• International students are not required to register in a school term that is designated as a break for immigration purposes. Regularly scheduled breaks are explained in Carleton Undergraduate Regulations, section 2.1.2.1 and in Graduate Program Calendars.
• A Leave of Absence for one term may be considered an authorized break from studies.

Immigration considerations related to breaks from studies are explained in full on the ISSO website.

My study permit expires shortly after my final term. Do I need to renew it?

We recommend that you have a study permit that is valid for at least 90 days after the end of your final term. This gives you time to get confirmation that you will graduate and to apply to extend your status in Canada if you want to or need to. This is especially important if you plan to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

You should apply for renewal early in your final term, because you want to receive your new study permit before the end of the term.

It is Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC)’s usual practice to allow this 90-day window.

What documents from Carleton should I include with my application for a study permit extension?

The line in the online application asks for a Letter of Acceptance. But continuing Carleton students should actually provide documents that update their registration status and expected program completion date; and also show that they are making progress towards program completion.

These documents are produced by the Registrar’s Office, the FGPA and Carleton Co-operative Education (for co-op students).

Consult the ISSO’s Study Permit Renewal Guide for details. .

Post-Graduation Work Permits

What Carleton documents do I need to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit? Can I work before I apply for the PGWP? Can I work after I apply for the PGWP? Can I travel home while after I finish my program?

The ISSO’s web page on Post-Graduation Work Permits explains PGWP eligibility and authorized work during the transition from student to work permit holder.

The ISSO’s detailed PGWP application guide (found at the same page) will guide you through the process.

See the IRCC website for an answer to the question “I’m waiting for my post-graduation work permit. Can I travel outside of Canada and come back with my student visa?”

Students who have questions not answered by these resources are encouraged to contact the ISSO.

I hear that workers in Canada have rights, but I don’t know what that means, and I wonder if my employer is not respecting those rights. Where can I get more information?

The Government of Canada has created a plain language reference guide to the rights of temporary foreign workers.

Canadian Permanent Residence

When / how can I apply for Permanent Residence in Canada?

Canada has multiple permanent residence programs and each has detailed eligibility requirements. Many have competitive selection processes. There are frequent changes to the programs and occasionally new programs are created.

Most international students won’t become eligible for any PR program until following graduation. For students who wish to remain in Canada while pursuing their PR options, it’s important to maintain valid temporary resident status at all times until PR status is confirmed.

The ISSO cannot offer one-on-one coaching, assessment, or advice on permanent resident issues. However, we do provide opportunities to learn and ask questions. A PR Pathways information session is offered each school term. We also have drop-in immigration Q&As where members of our immigration advising team will answer general questions about permanent residence. Events are listed on the ISSO Events Calendar.

Students may also self-enrol in the ISSO’s Brightspace Course PR Pathways for International Students . This course provides an overview of basic concepts, Express Entry, and the OINP graduate streams, as well as answers to a number of Frequently Asked Questions about transitioning to permanent residence after graduation from Carleton.

UHIP

Can I extend UHIP after graduation?

You can extend your UHIP coverage for up to 6 months after your classes end. Information and cu_people_phone_ext options are available on our UHIP webpage.

Do I still have UHIP coverage if I don’t enrol in summer classes? What happens if I withdraw from classes?

If you are an undergraduate student, summer is considered a ‘designated break’ and you will continue to be covered to August 31. Please visit the UHIP website to learn all about UHIP health coverage for international students at Carleton.

I am taking online classes from outside Canada. Do I need UHIP?

If you are taking online classes from outside Canada, then UHIP is not required. You can have the fee removed from your student account by completing our opt-out form.

If/when you decide to travel to Canada, please email us at isso@carleton.ca for the most current travel and quarantine information. Your UHIP will be reinstated based on your travel date. If you plan on coming to Canada for summer term, you must be enrolled in summer classes.

When will I receive my UHIP Card?

International students are required to be enrolled with the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP). The UHIP premium will be automatically added to your student account. You will receive a Welcome email from Cowan, the insurance underwriters, before the start of the term with details on how to register on their member portal in order to access your UHIP e-card. Remember that UHIP is mandatory for any dependents (spouse and/or children) inside Canada. More details on our UHIP website.

Student Life

Are there scholarships available for international students?

Please check the Admissions website for scholarships and bursaries available to all Carleton University students.

Graduate students can check the Graduate Admissions website for information on financial assistance for international graduate students.

Make sure to all check the ISSO’s list of Scholarships for international students.

Can I order textbooks for international shipping?

Yes – The Carleton Bookstore is ready to help you get the textbooks and other materials you need to succeed in your courses at Carleton. Students can order their textbooks from the Bookstore website at www.carletonshop.ca to have them delivered promptly anywhere around the world.

• The bookstore suggests that you place your order as early as possible.
• Some students have had issues using international credit cards on their web site, a recommended solution is to deposit the funds needed onto your Campus Card, and then use the Campus Card to purchase their our site.
• Please use your mailing address, not your home address, if they are different, when placing your order. If you are uncertain on how to write your address for an international delivery, please contact your local post office or delivery service.
• Please use a cu_people_phone number and email that you currently have access to (i.e. don’t use your future Ottawa cu_people_phone number if you’re not currently in Ottawa) when placing your order.
• Once your order is placed through their website, the Carleton Bookstore will be in touch by email with a shipping quote. Once that quote is approved, the payment will be processed, the shipment will be sent, and you’ll receive a tracking number so you can follow your shipment.
• Some countries charge an import fee for textbooks, it will be each students’ responsibility to pay these import fees if needed.

Students with any questions about placing an order should contact The Carleton Bookstore by email at thebookstore@carleton.ca or by cu_people_phone at 613-520-3832.

What are tuition fees at Carleton University?

Tuition fees at Carleton, which can be found on Student Accounts’ page, vary depending on your program. Some international students are eligible to apply to pay domestic fees instead of international student fees. Find these exemptions on the Registrar’s Office site.

Prospective Students

How can I apply to come to Carleton for an undergraduate degree?

If you would like to apply to do an undergraduate degree at Carleton University, please visit the Undergraduate Admissions website.

How do I apply to come to Carleton for a graduate degree program?

If you would like to study in a Master’s or PhD Program, please visit the Graduate Admissions website.

I want to come to Carleton on Exchange. What should I do?

Please visit Incoming Exchange for detailed information on the program.

Faculty and Staff

What is a Student Exchange Agreement and how can I propose one?

Learn about how departments and faculties can propose a new Student Exchange Agreement.

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