English language proficiency
English is the primary language of instruction at Athabasca University. Applicants whose first language is not English, or who have not completed their secondary or post-secondary education in English speaking countries, must demonstrate English Language Proficiency in the ways outlined below before they are allowed to register in 91ΦΖΖ¬³§courses:
- Successfully completed a minimum of 15 credits (e.g. five, 3-credit courses) from a recognized English-speaking post-secondary institution;
- ELP exams – test scores cannot be older than 2 years and must be official (i.e. issued directly from the testing centre):
- A minimum score of 6 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Academic level is required;
- A minimum score of 60 on the Carleton University's Canadian Academic English Language Assessments (CAEL);
- A minimum score of 80 on the English Proficiency Test administered by the English Language Institute of the University of Michigan (MELAB);
- A minimum overall score of 59 on the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic, with no less than 51 in each of the 4 communicative skills;
- A minimum score of 80, with a minimum essay score of 20, and a minimum score of 46 on all other bands on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (T.O.E.F.L) (for tests taken before Jan. 21, 2026);
- A minimum TOEFL score of 4 with a minimum score of 3.5 in Reading, Listening, and Writing bands and a 4 in Speaking (for tests taken Jan. 21, 2026 or later);
- Duolingo – a minimum score of 105 with a minimum of 75 on each band.
- Successful completion of AU's English Language Proficiency Program, with an overall average of 75 per cent (GPA of 3.0).
Students must submit their proof of English Language Proficiency via:
- email: enrol@athabascau.ca
Copies of the proof of English Language Proficiency will be stored with the official student records and may be subject to audit.
When submitting transcripts to determine English Language Proficiency, the transcripts must come directly from the post-secondary institution issuing them. We will not accept transcripts sent directly from learners.
The Office of the Registrar maintains a list of English speaking countries from which applicants would usually be deemed to have met English Language Proficiency.
All Appeals to this policy must be made within 30 days of the Office of the Registrar's original decision by using the online appeals form, which will direct the appeal to the designated Appeal Officer. The Appeal Officer has the final decision-making authority on all appeals related to this policy. All decisions will be communicated in writing to the Appellant.
For further information on appeals and the appeals process, please review our website.
Updated March 03, 2026 by Office of the Registrar