IELTS Score for UK- How Much Scores Do You Need

Updated on 12 September, 2024

The significance of IELTS for studying abroad is widely known. Other than applying to higher education institutions, it is also the most accepted English language test for permanent residency in foreign countries, the UK being one of them. But what is a good IELTS score for the UK if you wish to study or settle there? While the answer varies, targeting a benchmark figure is always a good idea. Here is a brief guide to give you a clearer picture. 

How Much IELTS Band is Required for UK

When it comes to the IELTS band requirement for the UK, you should note that the requirements usually vary, depending on varied criteria. For visas, the highest score required is 7 (considered a ‘Good User’), while the lowest score is 4 (referred to as ‘Limited User’). For studying, you will require at least 4 for a student visa (courses below the degree level) or 5.5 (for degree-level courses and above). At the same time, you should remember that educational institutions have their own requirements. 

If you wonder how many bands are required for the UK institutions, the list below provides detailed information. 

UK Universities Accepting IELTS 6.0 Band Score 

Here is a list of universities that accept IELTS 6.0 band scores. 

University Name City 
University of Manchester  Manchester
University of  Bristol Bristol
University of Birmingham Birmingham 
Queen Mary University of London London
Lancaster University Lancaster 
University of Leeds Leeds
University of Aberdeen  Aberdeen 
University of Liverpool Liverpool 
University of Sussex Brighton and Hove

Source: IELTS website

UK Universities Accepting IELTS 5.5 Band Score 

Here is a list of universities accepting IELTS 5.5 band scores in the UK. 

University Name City 
Abbey College London
Anglia Ruskin University Cambridge 
Aston University Birmingham
Bedford College Bedford
Belfast Metropolitan College Belfast 
Bradford College Bradford
Newcastle College  Newcastle 

Source: IELTS website

How to Get Good IELTS Score for UK 

Here are a few handy tips to help you get a good IELTS passing score for UK universities. 

  • Keep upgrading your vocabulary- Upgrading vocabulary is essential while preparing for IELTS. Regularly reading books and articles, listening to English news, watching English shows, and writing exercises can help you. You will be able to note new expressions and phrases on various topics that you can use. 
  • Keep reading more- Half the job is done if you know how to quickly read through any text and understand what is being said. Developing a reading habit can help you build the pace for understanding long and complex passages. Keep taking up sample tasks, and only check the answers once you are done. Read English newspapers to expand your vocabulary and understand complex words and phrases. 
  • Practice writing better- To write better, you must build the ability to use words correctly. When encountering new words and phrases, not them down. You can later search for their definitions and sample sentences using them. Start journaling or make it a practice to write something daily. This will help you give shape to your thoughts easily.

In the IELTS Writing Task 1, describe the information that you gather and not the diagram given in the exercise, emphasizing more on the facts and figures supporting your answer. Find charts, diagrams, and graphs that you can practice with online. In Task 2, evaluate the question and plan the paragraphs before writing. Make sure that all parts of the question are answered without fail. Practicing timed writing exercises can help you with this.

  • Build fluency and improve your pronunciation- Practice impromptu speaking on any topic for 2-3 minutes at a stretch. Record yourself and pinpoint awkward pauses and grammatical mistakes. Listen to English speeches in movies and television, repeating key phrases with the same stress and intonation. 
  • Practice the fine art of listening- Listen to the daily news and practice writing down the key points. When you practice with audio clippings or podcasts, do not pause them if you think you have made a mistake in understanding. Continue listening and finally analyze your mistakes. 

IELTS Score for UK Visas

Here is a useful guide to the minimum IELTS score for UK work visas: 

Visa Type Minimum CEFR Level IELTS and Minimum Score Requirement 
Skilled Worker (formerly known as Tier 2 General work visa) B1 IELTS for UKVI
4.0 overall, and in each of the four skills

Student (earlier called the Tier 4 General student visa) - Degree level or above

 

Equivalent to B2 IELTS/IELTS for UKVI
5.5 overall, and in each of the four skills
Student (formerly known as the Tier 4 General student visa) - Below degree level  B1 IELTS for UKVI
4.0 overall, and in each of the four skills
Citizenship B1 IELTS Life Skills B1 - Pass
IELTS for UKVI - 4.0 in Speaking and Listening

Source: British Council

How to Study in UK Without IELTS

If you wonder if there’s a possibility to study in the UK without IELTS? You are not wrong. Studying in the UK without submitting your IELTS scores is surely possible. For starters, you can provide scores of other accepted English language proficiency examinations as accepted by your chosen university. However, to obtain a study visa, you should provide a document to the immigration authorities that you are eligible for the same without an IELTS score. 

You may have to demonstrate English language proficiency for your student visa based on the required CEFR levels and can provide scores of alternative accepted examinations. You may also consider appearing for the Secure English Language Test (SELT), which is accepted for UK visas and immigration. 

Several universities take applications without IELTS scores, including the University of Warwick, the University of Bristol, the University of Surrey, the University of Southampton, and the University of Bolton. You should look up alternative examinations these institutions accept for demonstrating English language proficiency and apply accordingly. 

More Information about study in UK:

FAQs

Is a score of 5.5 in the IELTS accepted in the UK?

Yes, several universities accept scores of 5.5 in the IELTS (overall). Some of them include Anglia Ruskin University, Bedford College, and many others.

Can I go to the UK with a score of 5.0 in the IELTS?

The minimum requirement for student visas is 5.5 for degree-level courses and above. Hence, you can only study in the UK with a score of 5.0 in the IELTS if you are applying for programs below the degree level (minimum score of 4).

Can I go to the UK with a band score of 4.5 in the IELTS?

The minimum requirement for degree-level courses and higher is 5.5 for student visas. You can only apply for programs below the degree level, which require a minimum score of 4 in the IELTS to obtain a student visa. 

Did you find this article helpful?

Jyotsna Singh

With over a decade of expertise in international education, Jyotsna has held impactful roles at the British Council, Unilodgers, a prominent UK university, and IDP Education, empowering countless students by not only enhancing their educational experiences but also by offering them guidance in securing essential scholarships and financial aid. She is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals through tailored guidance and financial support.

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