Strange Situation:No IELTS dates

[frank100]

Well there were no ielts exam dates in last 6 months and there are not any exam dates for next 4 months in my country(all booked-full) and its seems like looking at demand there won't be any ielts exam dates for next whole year.
I had taken IELTS(score:7) in 2011(which has expired now). So ,I want to take ielts again but there are no exam dates available. But exam dates for other language tests such as toefl,CAE are still readily available. But it seems like only IELTS is accepted.
Googling I found that some suggested even TOEFL is allowed. So what's the truth?
Can I take any other exams other than IELTS for language requirement for express entry or any other PR visa in Canada?

Or is there any chance of getting some special consideration for other exams other than ielts explaining the situation of my country? :-[

If I get a job offer independently and if my employer is ok with my English(or TOEFL results) ,can I apply for express entry(with that job offer) or I won't be allowed to apply unless I have the great IELTS? :

Can anybody help with information?
I am from IT industry(programming) and feel like I do have a good chance if IELTS is not a problem

Regards.

 

[scylla]

TOEFL is not accepted. Only IELTS and CELPIP are accepted for English. There are no exceptions made and you cannot apply under Express Entry without language test results.

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?q=572&t=5

 

[scylla]

Just to add - you can opt to take the test in another country.

 

[frank100]

Thanks for the info guys.
Well i don't know why they hate TOEFL ;D

or at least CAE is administered by same Organization.

Ya I know about taking exams in another country. Visa to take exam only(new visa class may be ;D just kidding ) that's irony. Are we allowed to take exams on tourist visa?

Any ways thanks for info.

May be no Canada for now.

 

[scylla]

Yes - you can certainly take the IELTS test on a tourist visa.

FYI - CELPIP is only offered in Canada.

 

[SharpC]

I'm having a similar problem with the TEF. I can find every other type of french certification test available in my area, but TEF is a rare breed.

--
SharpC

 

[mdRaees]

@Frank100
Have you check the dates of IDP. IELTS is conducted by British council and IDP. You might get a berth in IDP. Available in 50 countries.

http://www.idp.com/global/ielts

 

[nettoyant]

Unfortunately, that's pretty common to happen. Before going all the way to another country to sit the IELTS it might be worth calling your local British Council office to make sure they are not addressing the issue. Due to high demand they might increase the number of available seats on upcoming test dates (it has happened in my home country).