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.
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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.
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