Discover 10 Canadian universities offering IELTS waivers for Nigerian MSc applicants in 2025. Learn how MOI letters work, waiver conditions, and visa tips.
🇨🇦 Introduction: The Reality of IELTS Waivers for Nigerian MSc Applicants
Every Nigerian student planning to study abroad knows the stress of preparing for English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. These tests are not only expensive but also time-consuming — and sometimes, unnecessary.
The good news? Several Canadian universities now waive IELTS for Nigerian students who have completed their undergraduate education in English.
What is an IELTS Waiver and How Does It Work?
An IELTS waiver means a university accepts alternative proof of English proficiency — usually a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your Nigerian university — instead of standardized test scores.
This waiver can save you months of preparation and up to ₦150,000 in test fees.
The IELTS was the one test standing between me and my Canadian admission. Discovering the waiver saved me ₦150,000 and two months of prep time — it fast-tracked my entire application!
Why Canadian Universities Offer Waivers
Canadian universities recognize that Nigerian institutions teach primarily in English. Therefore, they often accept a MOI certificate or proof that your previous degree was taught in English.
Besides convenience, it’s part of a broader effort to attract more African talent — especially from Nigeria, where education quality and English fluency are well-established.
10 Canadian Universities with Official IELTS Waivers for Nigerian MSc Students
Below are top universities that publicly confirm IELTS waivers or offer flexible English requirements for Nigerian applicants.
Brock University (Ontario)
Official Site: Brock University Graduate Studies
Waiver Condition:
Accepts MOI letter confirming your degree was taught in English.
Popular MSc Programs:
- Computer Science
- Public Health
- Applied Gerontology
Deadline: February–April (varies by program)
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
Website: www.mun.ca
Memorial is one of the most international-friendly Canadian universities. It accepts MOI letters from recognized Nigerian universities in place of IELTS.
My university in Nigeria initially refused to issue an MOI letter. I had to formally petition the Registrar’s office, emphasizing the Canadian university’s specific requirements. It took patience, but it worked!
Programs with Waivers:
- MSc in Computer Science
- MSc in Applied Mathematics
- MSc in Environmental Science
University of Regina (Saskatchewan)
Website: www.uregina.ca
Regina provides IELTS waivers for applicants who studied in English-speaking countries, including Nigeria.
Note: Must submit a signed MOI letter and transcript.
University of Winnipeg (Manitoba)
Website: www.uwinnipeg.ca
This university accepts a Medium of Instruction certificate as proof of English proficiency.
Popular MSc Programs:
- Applied Computer Science
- Environmental and Social Change
- Data Science
Concordia University (Montreal, Quebec)
Website: www.concordia.ca
Concordia may exempt Nigerian applicants from IELTS if their previous education was in English.
Alternative Tests Accepted:
- Duolingo English Test
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
Duolingo Requirement: Minimum score of 120.
University of Saskatchewan (USask)
Website: www.usask.ca
USask accepts applicants with a Medium of Instruction letter from an English-speaking institution in Nigeria.
Programs: MSc in Agriculture, Biology, and Computer Science.
University of Ottawa (Ontario)
Website: www.uottawa.ca
For select departments, an English-medium university degree is sufficient to waive IELTS.
Note: The Graduate Admissions Office evaluates on a case-by-case basis.
Carleton University (Ottawa)
Website: graduate.carleton.ca
Carleton recognizes Nigerian degrees taught in English. You may upload your MOI letter directly through the online application portal.
MSc Fields: Data Science, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering.
University of Manitoba (Winnipeg)
Website: umanitoba.ca
Manitoba allows IELTS exemptions for applicants who completed degrees in recognized English-speaking countries (Nigeria included).
Tip: Contact your prospective department to confirm if your Nigerian university qualifies.
University of Windsor (Ontario)
Website: www.uwindsor.ca
Offers IELTS waivers for students with MOI proof and consistent English grades during undergraduate study.
Pro tip: Attach your WAEC/NECO English result as additional support.
The 3 Ways to Qualify for an IELTS Waiver
Here are the main paths Nigerian students can use to secure an IELTS-free admission.
The Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter
A MOI Letter is an official document from your Nigerian university stating that your entire degree was taught and examined in English.
What to include in your MOI:
- University letterhead
- Signed by the Registrar or Head of Department
- Phrase stating: “The medium of instruction and examination throughout the program was English.”
Commonly Accepted Nigerian Universities:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Covenant University
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Federal University of Technology, Minna
Direct English Language Pathway Programs
Some universities offer conditional admission to applicants without IELTS. You’re first enrolled in an English language program before progressing to your MSc.
Examples:
- University of Manitoba’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
- University of Saskatchewan’s Language Centre Program
While this option adds 3–6 months to your study time, it guarantees your MSc entry.
Previous Degree from an English-Speaking Country
If your bachelor’s or master’s was completed in countries like Ghana, South Africa, or the UK, you automatically qualify for an IELTS waiver.
While Nigeria is Anglophone, some strict Canadian schools still push for an IELTS. You must be ready to back up your MOI letter with your transcript and a strong academic record.
From Waiver to Visa: Addressing Application Hurdles
Does an IELTS Waiver Affect My Visa Approval Rate?
No — as long as your admission letter clearly states that English proficiency was verified and accepted, your Study Permit application remains valid.
However, visa officers may look for additional proof of English fluency, especially if you didn’t submit IELTS.
âś… Counter this by writing a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) that demonstrates clear communication and professional clarity.
Learn more via: IRCC Student Visa Guidelines
Total MSc Cost and GIC Requirements for SDS
Even with waivers, Nigerian students applying through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) must still show financial readiness.
As of 2025:
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): CAD $20,635 (₦18–20 million)
- Tuition deposit: CAD $5,000–$10,000 depending on school
- Visa application fee: CAD $150
- Medical + Biometrics: ₦75,000–₦100,000
Proof of funds must be in your name or that of your sponsor, supported by valid financial statements.
Conclusion: Get Your MSc Admission Without IELTS Stress
Getting into a Canadian university doesn’t have to start with IELTS or TOEFL. If your Nigerian degree was taught in English, you may already qualify for a waiver.
I’m living proof that an IELTS waiver doesn’t reduce your chances — it simply saves time and money. My advice? Start early, prepare your MOI letter, and email each department to confirm their policy.
Speak to an Expert Who Handles IELTS Waivers Daily (CTA)
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or how to request a waiver, book a free consultation with a verified Canadian study advisor. They can guide you on:
- Preparing your MOI letter
- Contacting eligible universities
- Meeting visa documentation standards
Check university waiver pages directly:
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- University of Regina Admissions
- Brock University International Office