Discover top IELTS waiver universities in Canada for MSc programs. Learn how Nigerian graduates can secure admission using a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate and what academic standards are required.
How Nigerian MSc Applicants Can Study in Canada Without IELTS
If you’re a Nigerian graduate aiming for a Master’s degree in Canada, you’ve likely encountered one recurring obstacle — IELTS.
The test, often expensive and stressful, is considered a standard proof of English proficiency. But here’s the truth: several Canadian universities offer IELTS waivers for qualified Nigerian graduates, especially those who completed their undergraduate degrees in English-speaking institutions.
This guide explains how to identify IELTS waiver universities in Canada for MSc, how to use your Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate effectively, and what academic standards you must meet to be considered competitive in 2025.
We’ll also list specific universities that consistently accept Nigerian students for graduate programs without IELTS, provided your transcripts and MOI satisfy institutional standards.
The MOI Strategy: Securing Your IELTS Exemption for a Canadian MSc
The Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate is your official key to bypassing the IELTS requirement at the Master’s level — if you qualify.
What Is the Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate?
The MOI letter is an official document issued by your Nigerian university confirming that your entire Bachelor’s degree was taught in English.
It must:
- Be on official university letterhead.
- Be signed and stamped by the registrar or department head.
- Explicitly state:
“The medium of instruction and examination for the degree awarded to [Your Full Name] was English.”
How It Works for MSc Admissions in Canada
Most Canadian universities accept the MOI as evidence of English proficiency if the applicant studied in an English-speaking country, like Nigeria.
However, acceptance depends on departmental policy, not just the university’s general admission office.
Typical Process:
- Submit your transcripts, certificates, and MOI with your online MSc application.
- The graduate department reviews your MOI and academic background.
- If accepted, the IELTS requirement is officially waived on your admission offer letter.
Important: Not all programs or faculties grant this waiver automatically — for instance, Engineering or Health Sciences departments may require an interview or additional proof of proficiency.
Top Canadian Universities Offering Graduate IELTS Waivers to Nigerians (2025 List)
Below are 8 reputable Canadian universities known for regularly granting IELTS waivers to Nigerian students pursuing MSc or Master’s-level programs.
These universities recognize degrees from English-speaking Nigerian institutions such as the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, Covenant University, UNN, FUTA, and OAU as valid for English exemption.
| University Name | Waiver Policy Summary (for Nigerian MSc Applicants) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. University of Alberta (Alberta) | Accepts MOI if Bachelor’s degree was obtained from a recognized English-medium university in Nigeria. | Departments like Engineering and Computer Science frequently grant waivers upon verification. |
| 2. University of Toronto (Ontario) | May waive IELTS for applicants educated in countries where English is the primary language of instruction. | Requires MOI + strong GPA; faculty discretion applies. |
| 3. Western University (Ontario) | Recognizes Nigerian English-medium degrees; IELTS waiver possible with MOI and excellent academic record. | Strong preference for 2:1 or First Class degrees. |
| 4. University of Saskatchewan (Saskatchewan) | Explicitly lists Nigeria among countries eligible for MOI-based IELTS exemption. | Known for Engineering, Computer Science, and Agricultural Sciences. |
| 5. Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) (Newfoundland & Labrador) | Offers broad IELTS exemptions for Nigerian graduates with verified MOI and strong transcripts. | Among Canada’s most affordable MSc destinations. |
| 6. University of Manitoba (Manitoba) | IELTS waiver accepted for Nigerian students with degrees from English-speaking universities. | Faculty of Science and Graduate Studies confirm eligibility via registrar verification. |
| 7. Brock University (Ontario) | Accepts MOI letters from English-taught institutions; IELTS waived for academically strong Nigerian applicants. | Offers MSc in Biological Sciences, Computer Science, and Sustainability. |
| 8. University of Regina (Saskatchewan) | IELTS may be waived for applicants whose degrees were taught in English in Nigeria. | Frequently grants MOI-based waivers for MSc programs in IT and Engineering. |
💡 Pro Tip: Always email the Graduate Admissions Office of your target department to confirm if an MOI waiver is applicable before submitting your full application. Policies can vary between faculties, even within the same university.
Examples of Accepted Nigerian Universities for IELTS Waivers
Based on data from graduate offices and past Nigerian student admissions, the following Nigerian institutions are widely recognized for MOI-based IELTS waivers:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Covenant University
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
Graduates from these institutions typically meet English proficiency requirements without additional testing, provided their MOI and academic transcripts are clear and verifiable.
IELTS Waiver Pitfalls: The Importance of a Strong CGPA (⚠️ The Warning Note)
While a Medium of Instruction letter can exempt you from IELTS, your academic profile must still meet the competitive entry standard for Canadian graduate schools.
Typical CGPA Benchmarks for MSc Admission (Nigerian Scale)
| Grade | Equivalent Canadian GPA | Admission Chances |
|---|---|---|
| First Class (4.5 – 5.0/5.0) | 3.7 – 4.0 / 4.0 | Excellent (High admission potential) |
| Upper Second Class (2:1, 3.5 – 4.49/5.0) | 3.3 – 3.6 / 4.0 | Good (Competitive for most MSc programs) |
| Lower Second Class (2:2, 3.0 – 3.49/5.0) | 2.8 – 3.2 / 4.0 | Possible only for course-based or professional master’s programs. |
Why a Strong CGPA Matters
- Graduate Admissions Are Highly Selective:
MSc programs are research-intensive, and competition is fierce.
A strong academic record strengthens your credibility — especially when skipping IELTS. - Faculty Verification:
When requesting a waiver, your department must feel confident that your academic writing, research, and communication skills meet graduate-level expectations. - Scholarship Eligibility:
Merit-based scholarships (like the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship or UAlberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship) often require a First Class or upper 2:1 equivalent.
⚠️ Warning: Having an MOI letter without a solid academic record won’t guarantee an admission offer. Some programs may still ask you to take PTE or TOEFL to strengthen your profile if your GPA is borderline.
Graduate Application Checklist for IELTS Waiver Candidates (2025)
Before you begin applying, ensure you have the following ready:
✅ Official Transcripts and Degree Certificate (sealed and signed by your Nigerian university)
✅ Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter — official copy only; no personal drafts accepted
✅ Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) — emphasize academic preparation and English-based research experience
✅ Letters of Recommendation — ideally from senior lecturers or supervisors familiar with your academic work
✅ Updated CV/Resume — highlight research, projects, or work experience
✅ Proof of Financial Readiness — some graduate programs require preliminary funding evidence
The Visa Angle: What Happens After Admission
Even if your university grants an IELTS waiver, your study permit (student visa) is issued by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
IRCC accepts MOI-based waivers if the admission letter explicitly confirms the IELTS exemption.
Otherwise, you may be asked for PTE, TOEFL, or IELTS results when processing your visa.
To avoid delays, request that your university’s admission letter explicitly states:
“The applicant’s English language proficiency requirement has been waived based on their previous education in English.”
This clarity ensures smooth visa approval during verification.
Read More — Related Graduate Admission Guides
For a complete understanding of your international study pathway, explore these related guides on our platform:
- 🇨🇦 How to Get a Canadian Student Visa from Lagos (VFS Global Guide)
- 🇬🇧 UK Student Visa Proof of Funds: CAS, IHS, and 28-Day Rule for Nigerians
- 🇩🇪 Germany Job Seeker Visa from Nigeria: Application, Requirements, and Success Rate
- 🇦🇺 IELTS Waiver: 10 Australian Universities for Nigerian Students Without the Test
- 🌍 Government-Funded Scholarships for Nigerian Students Abroad (UK, US, Canada)
Conclusion
Securing an MSc admission in Canada without IELTS is completely achievable for Nigerian students — if you understand the process and prepare your documents carefully.
Here’s the essential roadmap:
✅ Obtain an official Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your Nigerian university registrar.
✅ Apply to IELTS waiver universities in Canada for MSc — like Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, or Western.
✅ Maintain a strong CGPA (preferably 2:1 or higher) to meet departmental standards.
✅ Ensure your admission letter explicitly confirms your IELTS exemption for a smooth visa process.
🎯 Next Step: Contact your department registrar today to request your official MOI certificate, and start applying early — most MSc deadlines for Fall 2025 close between December 2024 and February 2025.
Your academic excellence and preparation can open Canada’s doors — even without IELTS.