University English requirements

What IELTS score do you need for Cañada College?

Cañada College in Redwood City, California, part of the San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley, asks international students for an IELTS Academic band of 5.5. Duolingo 85 and TOEFL iBT 56 also count, as does completing a set level at an approved English language school.Source: Cañada College official English requirements · checked 29 October 2026
  • Guide updated · 29 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026

Cañada English requirement

From Cañada's international student application page. The page links to a full list of proficiency options, including English language school levels.

Programme or placementIELTS AcademicOther tests
International admission5.5 (Academic)Duolingo 85, TOEFL iBT 56, TOEFL paper 480 with no section below 48
English language schoolsCompletion of a specified level or higher

Transcripts and English

Applicants over 18 send a copy of their official high school or university transcript translated into English; originals are not needed and the translation does not need to be certified. If you use transcripts to prove English, they and the diplomas must be official and the translations certified. Applicants under 18 also send official proof of graduation.

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Funds and how to check

Bank statements must be from the last three months and show at least $32,500 for the first year, plus $5,000 for the first dependent and $2,500 for each additional dependent.

Requirements and placement levels change between terms. The score that binds you is the one on Cañada College's international admissions page and in your admission letter, so check it there before you book a test.

Minimum vs competitive score

Where Cañada College publishes an IELTS score, it is the minimum: the floor an application has to meet to be considered, not a score that guarantees an offer.

Competitive programmes, and courses with far more applicants than places, may expect more than the minimum, and some departments set their own overall or per-skill scores, often for writing or speaking. The course page has the final word, so check it before you book a test.

If you are close to the line, aim for a margin above it: one weak skill can miss the requirement even when the overall band clears it. Not sure where you stand? Take a free IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill.

Frequently asked questions

What IELTS score does Cañada College need?+

An IELTS Academic band of 5.5.

Does Cañada College accept Duolingo?+

Yes, a minimum of 85.

What TOEFL score does Cañada need?+

TOEFL iBT 56, or 480 on the paper test with no section below 48.

How much money must I show for Cañada College?+

At least $32,500 for the first year, more with dependents.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 29 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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