English Proficiency

Trent is an English language university and it is important to your success at Trent that you are proficient in both spoken and written English.  All students must demonstrate a command of English sufficient to meet the demands of classroom instruction, written assignments, and participation in tutorials and discussions. 

Applicants whose first language is not English are normally required to submit proof of English proficiency meeting or exceeding the following test results.

English Language Proficiency Tests

Note: If you have results from a recognized Canadian University English language testing services you may submit your results for consideration.
English Language Proficiency requirements are subject to change without prior notice.

Exemptions from English Proficiency

To be exempted from providing proof of English language proficiency you must meet one of the following categories:

1) You have successfully completed the International Baccalaureate diploma where English was the language of instruction (English Language A not English Language B). You have successfully completed your studies under the British Curriculum: Minimum 'C' grade in O-Level English or completion of AS/A Level subjects taught in English.

2) You have studied at least 3 years full-time in a high school/secondary school where the medium of instruction is entirely English and you have not taken any ESL courses during this period. You are required to provide an official letter from your school indicating the language of instruction is English if it is not clearly indicated on your transcript or school profile. 

3) You have studied at least 2 years full-time in a community college (post-secondary) where the medium of instruction is entirely in English and you have not taken any ESL courses during this period. You are required to provide an official letter from your school indicating the language of instruction is English if it is not clearly indicated on your transcript or school profile.

4) You have studied at least 1 year full-time in a university where the medium of instruction is entirely in English and you have not taken any ESL courses during this period. You are required to provide an official letter from your school indicating the language of instruction is English if it is not clearly indicated on your transcript or school profile.

(Please note: Notwithstanding the above requirements and conditions, Trent University reserves the right to request English proficiency test scores from any applicant.)

Documents requesting exemption may be uploaded through the Document Uploader found under the Academic menu in MyTrent, or emailed to admissions@trentu.ca, or mailed to:

International Admissions, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada K9L 0G2

Deadlines for Submission of Proof of English Language Proficiency

If you receive an admission offer asking you to submit proof of English Language Proficiency, you must do so by July 1st for September enrolment, November 1st for January enrolment, and March 1st for May enrolment.

Trent University reserves the right to ask for further evidence of English proficiency regardless whether or not the applicant may have met published exemption requirements.

For inquiries about English Language Proficiency please contact Trent International at +1 (705) 748-1314 or email admissions@trentu.ca.

If you do not meet English Proficiency or Exemption Requirements

Applicants whose English language proficiency is below Trent’s accepted scores are invited to apply for gradual admission through the Trent-ESL: English for University Program. The Trent-ESL: English for University  program is an intensive English language, academic skills and university transition program that provides a strong foundation for academic success at the university level, and immediate progression to full-time undergraduate degree studies upon successful completion of the program.