Study in the UK without IELTS: Different Alternatives for Indian Students
The UK is an English-speaking country where higher academic institutions require Indian students to prove their proficiency in the English language before enrolling in degree programs. Apart from IELTS, there are various other ways through which candidates can fulfill this condition, which we have discussed in this blog.
What is an IELTS Waiver for Studying in the UK?
An IELTS waiver is a type of exemption provided to certain international students (outside the UK/EU/EEA/English-speaking countries) who have fulfilled the criteria for English language proficiency for studying in the UK through other means.
An IELTS waiver does not mean that candidates are not required to provide proof of English language proficiency. Some of the general ways are discussed below.Â
Study in the UK without IELTS: Other Alternatives
As discussed above, there are several other ways to demonstrate your proof of English language proficiency while applying to UK Universities.
Alternative Test Options
Apart from IELTS, a non-native English speaker can demonstrate their proficiency by attempting one of the following tests
- TOEFL iBT
- PTEÂ
- Duolingo
- Kaplan Test of English
- Oxford Test of English Advanced
- Trinity ISE
Submitting Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
- If an applicant has completed their previous studies in academic settings where the English language was the only mode of instruction and examinations, then they are required to submit an MOI certificate.Â
- However, the degree should not be older than 5-7 years, depending on the university.Â
- This is only applicable to Indian students who want to pursue master’s or higher degree programs in the UK.
Pre-Sessional English Language Courses
- If applicants have attempted one of the above English language proficiency tests but did not meet the desired requirement, then they can enroll themselves in pre-sessional English language courses or pathway programs.Â
- The objective of such programs is to prepare international students to develop their academic skills and English better.
- These courses are available online or in person, depending on the university.Â
- These courses are for international students who either need to meet the language criteria or like to prepare themselves for the degree program.
- The duration of these courses is 6-16 weeks, depending on university.Â
Competent Score in the English Core Subject
- Indian students who want to pursue an undergraduate degree program can get an IELTS waiver from UK universities if they have at least 75% in the English Core subject at senior secondary level (CBSE/ISC).
- For all other state boards, this criteria is a minimum of 80-85%.
IELTS Waiver for Studying in the UK: Required Documents
Depending on the conditions and university, any one of the documents can be submitted to apply for an IELTS waiver.
- Proof of Other English Language Proficiency Test Score (TOEFL iBT/PTE/Duolingo, etc.) OR
- MOI Certificate OR
- Class XII marksheet showcasing the English language marks, minimum 75-85%. OR
- Certificate of Enrollment in the pre-sessional English language courses.
| English Language Proficiency Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 70-90 |
| PTE | 45-60 |
| Duolingo | 100-120 |
List of Universities without IELTS in the UK
The following is a table highlighting the list of some of the UK universities without IELTS.
- University of Bristol
- University of Warwick
- University of Birmingham
- University of York
- University of Strathclyde
- University of Dundee
- Coventry University
- Nottingham Trent University
- University of Plymouth
- University of Greenwich
- Birmingham City University
Applying for a UK Study Visa without IELTS
If a UK university has approved the candidate’s application by confirming that they have met the English language requirements through alternative means, they can proceed to apply for a UK Student Route visa without submitting an IELTS score.
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
To study in the UK without IELTS, there are certain conditions international students must fulfill. These conditions, which vary by university, may include taking alternative English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
Submitting a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate, enrolling in pre-sessional English language courses, or having strong marks in English core subjects.
FAQs
Can I apply for a UK study visa without IELTS?
Yes, if a UK university has approved the candidate’s application by confirming that they have successfully met the English language requirements, then they can apply for a study visa without submitting an IELTS score.
What are the universities that provide an IELTS waiver for studying in the UK?
Some UK universities that offer an IELTS waiver to international students are the University of Bristol, Birmingham City University, University of Warwick, University of York, University of Birmingham, and University of Dundee.
What is the minimum IELTS score to study in the UK?
The minimum IELTS score to study in the UK is 6.5 or above, depending on the university, study level, and academic courses.
What is SELT?
SELT, or Secure English Language Test, is a collection of several English language proficiency tests approved by the UK Home Office for visa and immigration purposes.Â
Some of the commonly recognised SELTs are IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic UKVI, LanguageCert International ESOL, and Trinity College London ISE tests.
What is the minimum IELTS score required to apply for a UK study visa?
The minimum IELTS score required to apply for a UK study visa is 6.0-6.5.
