Minimum IELTS Score Requirements for UK Universities & Student Visa
Updated on 08 September, 2023
Mrinal Mandal
Study Abroad Expert
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The International English Language Testing System or IELTS is a globally standardized examination for analyzing English Proficiency with regard to non-native speakers of the English language. The IELTS score for UK is a prerequisite for obtaining admission into the universities in the country. The band score scale of the examination should be carefully understood. It is average band score between 1-4 and the scores ranging between 5-6 are considered moderate, and good for scores between 7-9. It should be noted that midwives and nurses looking to work in the United Kingdom should have at least 7.0 as their IELTS score. A score of 6.5 would be the minimum threshold for Writing and 7.0 is the minimum requirement for the Listening, Reading, and Speaking sections.
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The IELTS validity score for the UK will be of two years from the date of declaration of the result. For getting admission into a leading university in the UK, students will have to follow diverse eligibility criteria. IELTS will help the candidates to get a student visa in the country along with immigration. IELTS (for visa purposes) may be taken at authorized testing centres throughout 100+ global locations. These centres are required to adhere to specific procedures regarding the conduct of the examination, as per the UK Government’s specifications.
IELTS Score for UK at Leading Institutions
The IELTS score for the UK varies from one institution to another. Here’s taking a closer look at requirements across the top universities.
University of Oxford
Oxford University is one of the oldest global universities and is a premier educational institution worldwide. It has achieved a rank of number 4 as per the QS World University Rankings. It has earned a reputation for its research programs, teaching atmosphere, talent and the best faculties. It is known for drawing the brightest pupils worldwide. The minimum IELTS cut off is 7.0 and 7.5 for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the University of Oxford respectively.
University of Cambridge
Cambridge University has achieved a global ranking of 6th as per the QS World University Rankings. It is one of the leading worldwide universities offering undergraduate programs in multiple fields like engineering, social sciences and arts and humanities. It is also linked closely to the establishment of the Silicon Fen technology and business cluster. It has reputed alumni and draws the best talent in various fields. 6.5 is the minimum IELTS cut off for both postgraduate and undergraduate courses.
University of Warwick
The University of Warwick is one of the UK’s most reputed universities for innovation, research, business studies, teaching and networking with the industry. It has high standards of academics and employers prefer hiring students from its numerous courses. It has 30 academic divisions and 4 faculties, namely Social Sciences, Arts, Science and Medicine. There are numerous societies available for learners as well. The minimum IELTS cut off is 6.5 for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
King’s College London
This is a research-driven university that has obtained a ranking amongst the world’s best institutions. It is one of London’s oldest and most acclaimed universities, offering globally acclaimed programs in law, culture and more. It has a minimum IELTS cut off the threshold of 7 for both postgraduate and undergraduate courses.
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
LSE is a university dedicated to public research and it comprises 70% of the international student population from more than 140 countries. It is divided into 25 varied academic departments that take care of both research and teaching. It has more than 200 public events held annually and promotes extra-curricular activities as well. The IELTS cut off here is 7 for undergraduate programs and 7.5 for postgraduate courses.
Imperial College London
Imperial College is the sole university in the UK to emphasize the fields of science, medicine, engineering and business. It has more than 380 societies, projects and clubs for students along with placing them in the biggest companies globally. Along with stellar placements, the university also offers abundant research opportunities for aspirants. The minimum IELTS cut off is 7.0 for both postgraduate and undergraduate courses.
Cardiff University
The Cardiff University offers 300+ undergraduate programs and 200+ postgraduate courses, diplomas and short courses. It comes with experienced and skilled faculty members which include previous winners of Nobel Prizes as well. There are numerous events held on campus along with various student clubs too. The university attracts hordes of global students annually. 6.5 is the minimum cut off for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses alike.
University College London
It is often called the Global University of London and is known for offering excellent research programs and infrastructures. It is the city’s biggest university for enrollment in postgraduate programs and one of the top multidisciplinary institutions which have its own global base of students. The university was also the first in England to admit students irrespective of religion and other parameters. The highly secular university has a dedicated research program that empathizes on solving problems in the real world. The IELTS cut off is 6.5 for both postgraduate and undergraduate programs.
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews University is the third oldest UK university after Oxford University and Cambridge University. The institution has three colleges, namely St. Mary’s College, United College and St. Leonard’s College along with 18 academic schools sub-divided into four faculties. It offers a top-notch research hub along with skilled faculty members. There are more than 100 societies for students at this historic university as well. The minimum IELTS cut off is 7.0 for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
University of Liverpool
It is one of the original civic universities in red brick and one of the first ones to set up civic design, oceanography and architecture departments. It has 35 departments that are divided into four faculties. It has been recognized as a global advanced learning and innovation hub while housing highly specialized centres of research in the bargain. It implements intensive research-driven activities while organizing multiple global workshops, exhibitions, conclaves and seminars alike. The minimum IELTS cut off is 6.0 and 6.5 for undergraduate and postgraduate courses respectively.
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Minimum IELTS Scores for Top UK Universities
The QS World University Rankings 2023 includes 90 universities, claiming four out of the top 10 entries, and is beaten by the US with 177 entries. Listed below are the IELTS minimum score for UK universities along with their QS rankings.
| QS World University Rankings 2023 | Institution | Minimum IELTS Requirement (For UG Programmes) | Minimum IELTS requirement (For PG Programmes) |
2 | University of Oxford | 7 | 7.5 |
3 | University of Cambridge | 7 | 7 |
7 | Imperial College London | 7 | 7 |
8 | University College London | 6.5 | 6.5 |
16 | The University of Edinburgh | 6.5 | 6.5 |
27 | The University of Manchester | 6 | 7.5 |
35 | King’s College London | 7 | 7 |
49 | The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 7 | 7.5 |
61 | The University of Warwick | 6.5 | 6.5 |
62 | University of Bristol | 6 | 6 |
73 | University of Glasgow | 6 | 7 |
77 | University of Southampton | 6.5 | 6.5 |
82 | Durham University | 6.5 | 6.5 |
90 | University of Birmingham | 6 | 6.5 |
91 | University of St Andrews | 7 | 7 |
92 | University of Leeds | 6 | 6.5 |
95 | The University of Sheffield | 6 | 6.5 |
103 | University of Nottingham | 7 | 7 |
117 | Queen Mary University of London | 6 | 6.5 |
132 | Lancaster University | 6 | 6.5 |
134 | Newcastle University | 6.5 | 6.5 |
IELTS Band Required for UK Universities for Different Programmes
To study in the UK, students are required to meet the English language proficiency requirements that vary according to the university and programme of study. International students need to secure a Tier 4 or student visa to study in the UK. For this, students need to demonstrate a good UK required IELTS score to support their application. Listed below are the minimum IELTS score requirements for different courses.
Foundation Course
Foundation courses have partnerships with universities and prepare students for a variety of subjects such as art and design, business, computing, engineering, finance and management, law, medicine, media and humanities, social science, science and pharmacy, etc. These foundation providers guarantee progression to an institution of their choice if the student achieves high enough grades. Many programs assess the candidate on the basis of their on-campus performance and provide full university status with complete access to libraries and sporting facilities.
| IELTS score requirements | 4.5 with no section less than 4.0 |
| Other requirements |
|
Bachelor’s Degree
There is no such thing as the IELTS passing score for UK as the minimum requirement to qualify in the examination differs from one university to the other. While the IELTS band score required by universities varies from 6.0 to 6.5, students seeking admission to top UK universities like the University of Oxford have to score 7.0.
| IELTS score requirements | 6.5 with no section less than 6.0 |
| Other requirements |
|
Pre-Master’s Degree
Local and international candidates who wish to improve improving their language and communication skills can opt for a Pre-master’s degree ahead of a master’s degree.
| IELTS score requirements | 5.0 with no section less than 5.0 |
| Other requirements |
|
Master’s Degree
The duration of a master’s degree in the UK ranges from 12 to 24 months and can be pursued by the students after completing their undergraduate or pre-masters. Students applying for a master's in the UK can check the IELTS score requirements.
| IELTS score requirements | 6.5 with no section less than 6.0 |
| Other requirements |
|
To cater end-to-end requirements of learners planning to pursue higher education abroad, upGrad Abroad has launched a Booster Program. The Booster Program is designed to offer support to students in preparation for IELTS, Academic Writing, Profile Building, International Faculty Masterclass, and University Application, Education Loan, and Visa Support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is IELTS required to study in the UK?
Without worrying about the IELTS band for UK, students can still study in the country. Some of the well-known UK universities like Brunel University, Birmingham City University, University of Bolton, University of Geneva, University of Greenwich, University of Northampton, University of Plymouth, Swansea University, and many more offer courses without IELTS scores.
Students who fulfil the following requirements can get admission to a university without an IELTS score.
- Should have secured 70% and above in English in Class 10th, 11th, and 12th.
- Proof of having studied from an English medium school.
- Should have an undergraduate degree in English from a reputed university
- Might be required to pursue a pre-sessional English course before commencing the study program
- Should have cracked the online interview conducted by the university
What is the minimum band score for IELTS in the UK?
To pursue a degree program in the UK, students need to score a minimum band of 6.0 to 6.5 on an average and a band score of 7 for some of the top universities. However, different courses at a particular university can have different IELTS score requirements, so it is advisable to check the institution's website for details.
How much IELTS score is required for a UK student visa?
The minimum IELTS score for a UK student visa is 4.0 or above in the Speaking and Listening sections, whereas the scores for Reading and Writing can be ignored.
Is IELTS required to study in England?
Yes, it is possible to study without IELTS at England provided if the student fulfills the mentioned requirement - Proof of over 70% in English in High School/Class XI and Class XII or transcript of a short term English course. Proof of English being the medium of instruction at school and able to crack the online interview conducted by the university.
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How much is the required IELTS academic score in the UK?
The required IELTS academic score in the UK varies according to the institution to which an individual is seeking admission. A minimum IELTS band score of at least six is considered in many universities, but to study at a premium institution, a band score of more than seven is required.
