Carleton University Logo Carleton University

Address: 1125 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-520-2600
Email: admissions@carleton.ca
Website: www.carleton.ca


Carleton University requires international students whose first language is not English to demonstrate proficiency in English for admission. Here are the language requirements for undergraduate and graduate programs at Carleton University:

Undergraduate Language Requirements

To meet Carleton's English language proficiency requirements, applicants must achieve one of the following:

  1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

    • Internet-Based Test (iBT): Minimum score of 86 with a minimum of 20 in each component (reading, writing, speaking, listening).
  2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

    • Academic Version: Minimum overall band score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0.
  3. CanTEST (Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees)

    • Minimum overall score of 4.5 with no component below 4.0.
  4. PTE (Pearson Test of English)

    • Minimum score of 60 overall with no communicative skill below 50.
  5. Duolingo English Test (DET)

    • Minimum score of 115.

Graduate Language Requirements

For graduate programs, the language proficiency requirements are generally as follows:

  1. TOEFL

    • Internet-Based Test (iBT): Minimum overall score of 90 with no component below 20.
  2. IELTS

    • Academic Version: Minimum overall band score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0.
  3. CanTEST

    • Minimum overall score of 4.5 with no component below 4.0.
  4. PTE

    • Minimum score of 60 overall with no communicative skill below 50.
  5. Duolingo English Test (DET)

    • Minimum score of 120.

Exemptions from English Proficiency Tests

Students may be exempt from providing an English language test score if they meet one of the following criteria:

  • They have completed a minimum of three years of full-time education in an English language secondary or post-secondary institution in a country where English is the primary language of instruction.
  • They have completed a degree program (at least three years in duration) at a recognized post-secondary institution where English is the primary language of instruction.

Conditional Admission

Carleton University may offer conditional admission to students who do not meet the language proficiency requirements. In such cases, students may be required to complete an approved English language program before being admitted to their degree program.

English Language Training

Carleton also offers an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program for students who wish to improve their English language skills before entering their academic programs.

Carleton University offers a diverse range of programs across various faculties, each with its own specialties. Here are some of the course specialities at Carleton University:

1. Arts and Social Sciences

  • Specialties:
    • Political Science: Focus on international relations, public policy, and Canadian politics.
    • History: Emphasis on Canadian history, world history, and historical methodologies.
    • Psychology: Covers areas like clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, and social psychology.

2. Business

  • Specialties:
    • Marketing: Studies consumer behavior, brand management, and digital marketing.
    • Finance: Focus on financial management, investment analysis, and corporate finance.
    • International Business: Examines global business strategies, trade, and international marketing.

3. Engineering and Design

  • Specialties:
    • Electrical and Computer Engineering: Focuses on communication systems, software development, and hardware design.
    • Mechanical Engineering: Involves thermodynamics, materials science, and fluid mechanics.
    • Industrial Design: Emphasizes product design, user experience, and sustainability.

4. Information Technology

  • Specialties:
    • Computer Science: Covers areas such as software engineering, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
    • Information Technology: Focuses on network administration, database management, and systems analysis.

5. Public Affairs and Policy Management

  • Specialties:
    • Public Policy: Involves policy analysis, program evaluation, and governance.
    • International Affairs: Focus on global governance, security studies, and diplomacy.

6. Architecture and Urbanism

  • Specialties:
    • Architecture: Combines design, theory, and technology to create functional spaces.
    • Urban Planning: Focuses on sustainable urban development, community engagement, and land-use planning.

7. Science

  • Specialties:
    • Biology: Covers molecular biology, ecology, and environmental science.
    • Chemistry: Focuses on analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, and materials science.
    • Physics: Includes condensed matter physics, astrophysics, and theoretical physics.

8. Communication and Media Studies

  • Specialties:
    • Media Production: Involves film production, video editing, and media storytelling.
    • Journalism: Focuses on news writing, reporting, and digital journalism.

9. Sustainability and Environmental Studies

  • Specialties:
    • Environmental Science: Involves studying ecosystems, climate change, and conservation.
    • Sustainable Energy: Focus on renewable energy sources and energy efficiency.

Carleton University is home to many distinguished faculty members known for their contributions to research, teaching, and their respective fields. Here are some notable professors at Carleton University:

1. Dr. R. M. (Rick) Mercer

  • Field: Geography and Environmental Studies
  • Specialization: Known for his research on urban geography and the social implications of climate change. Dr. Mercer has contributed significantly to understanding sustainable urban development.

2. Dr. Lisa J. O’Neill

  • Field: Engineering
  • Specialization: An expert in mechanical engineering, Dr. O’Neill focuses on renewable energy technologies and energy-efficient systems. She has received recognition for her research and teaching excellence.

3. Dr. Michael J. Houghton

  • Field: Public Policy and Administration
  • Specialization: Dr. Houghton specializes in public policy analysis and governance. He has published extensively on the topics of policy frameworks and the intersection of politics and public administration.

4. Dr. Hélène P. Boulet

  • Field: Sociology
  • Specialization: A leading researcher in social inequality and community studies, Dr. Boulet focuses on marginalized communities and the impact of policy on social welfare.

5. Dr. Stephen F. Barrett

  • Field: History
  • Specialization: Known for his expertise in Canadian history, particularly in the context of Indigenous relations and colonial history. His work contributes to a better understanding of historical narratives in Canada.

6. Dr. Jennifer B. Dyer

  • Field: Business Administration
  • Specialization: Dr. Dyer is recognized for her research in organizational behavior and strategic management. Her work emphasizes the importance of leadership and team dynamics in business.

7. Dr. Anna B. C. M. Verghese

  • Field: Computer Science
  • Specialization: An expert in artificial intelligence and machine learning, Dr. Verghese has published extensively on algorithms and their applications in real-world problems.

8. Dr. Nancy H. G. Nygren

  • Field: Psychology
  • Specialization: Dr. Nygren focuses on cognitive psychology and neuroscience, exploring topics such as memory, decision-making, and the psychology of learning.

Among the best comprehensive universities in Canada, Carleton University has more than 200 areas of study taught by award-winning faculty in cutting-edge facilities. As a result, Carleton has become one of the most productive learning hubs, having the resources and networks to help its students secure meaningful employment after graduation while driving real impact in the world.  

Carleton University is well-known for several key reasons that contribute to its reputation as a leading educational institution in Canada. Here are some factors that make Carleton famous:

1. Strong Reputation in Research

  • Carleton University is recognized for its commitment to research excellence across various fields, particularly in public affairs, social sciences, engineering, and communications. It consistently ranks among the top Canadian universities for research funding and output.

2. Specialized Programs

  • The university offers several highly regarded and specialized programs, particularly in journalism, international affairs, architecture, and public policy. The School of Journalism and Communication is particularly noted for its hands-on training and strong connections to the media industry.

3. Location in Ottawa

  • Situated in the nation’s capital, Carleton has unique access to political, governmental, and cultural institutions. This location provides students with opportunities for internships and networking in fields related to government, international relations, and public service.

4. Focus on Experiential Learning

  • Carleton emphasizes experiential learning through co-op programs, internships, and community engagement. This focus helps students gain practical experience and apply their learning in real-world settings.

5. Innovative Facilities

  • The university boasts modern facilities, including advanced laboratories, studios, and research centers. The Carleton University Art Gallery and the University Centre are notable for providing spaces for creativity and collaboration.

6. Interdisciplinary Approach

  • Carleton promotes an interdisciplinary approach to education, encouraging collaboration across different fields of study. This fosters innovative thinking and prepares students for the complexities of the modern job market.

7. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

  • The university is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse community. It actively promotes equity and supports various groups, including Indigenous students, international students, and those from underrepresented backgrounds.

8. Sustainability Initiatives

  • Carleton is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The university has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices on campus.

9. Athletics and Student Life

  • Carleton has a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic teams. The Ravens are known for their successful varsity sports programs, particularly in basketball, which has garnered national attention.