IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training and IELTS for UKVI Life Skills are accepted by the UK Visas and Immigration as proof of English proficiency for those wishing to live, work and study in the UK.

An added advantage for international students is that over 1,000 British universities and colleges accept IELTS Academic results. This means that, in some cases, you may not be required to take the IELTS for UKVI Academic test. Instead, you can submit your IELTS Academic score.

The United Kingdom is renowned for housing some of the world's most prestigious universities, providing international students with an unparalleled academic journey, including the following benefits:

• Upon completing their studies at a British university, international students are eligible for a two-year work visa.

• An overwhelming 80% of international alumni highly recommend studying in the UK.

• Moreover, 69% of these alumni believe that their UK university affiliation has significantly accelerated their career progression.

However, checking the specific test and minimum IELTS score for UK university or college before booking your test is essential.

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Which IELTS Test to Study in UK?

There are several types of IELTS tests available to suit your specific goals.

• You must appear for IELTS Academic if you want to pursue higher education at the undergraduate or postgraduate level or work in a professional organisation in an English-speaking country.

• If you plan to study below a degree, work in an English-speaking country (either on your own or abroad), or immigrate to an English -speaking country, you must take IELTS General Training Test

• If you are applying for a UK visa to work, live, or study in the UK, you should take a secure English language test (SELT). Both the IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) Academic or General Training, as well as the IELTS Life Skills test, have been approved for various UK Visa and Immigration purposes. These include UK visa renewal, British Citizenship, Settlement, and Leave to Remain.

IELTS for UK Academic Test

The IELTS Academic test is designed for individuals who want to study or join a professional organisation in an English-speaking country. IELTS evaluates your readiness to study or train, where English is the primary means of communication. If you plan to move to an English-speaking country for education or work, you must demonstrate your English language proficiency. Also, IELTS band scores are accepted by over 12,000 institutions, including universities, employers, professional associations, and governments in 140 countries worldwide.

Minimum IELTS Score for UK Universities Course-Wise

IELTS is widely accepted by most universities and colleges in the UK. For various courses and degrees, a varied IELTS score is required. Most universities demand IELTS scores of 6.5 or above from applicants. We have listed the IELTS scores for UK for various programme levels below:

Minimum IELTS score required for UK universities

To study in the UK, securing a student visa is essential, and eligibility for this visa depends on meeting the English language proficiency criteria specified by the educational institution you are applying to. Outlined below are the minimum IELTS required for UK universities.

How to Prepare for IELTS for UK Academic Test?

To prepare for IELTS Academic, you must:

• Practice actively listening to English audio materials, such as lectures, podcasts, and interviews, to improve your listening skills.

• Develop efficient reading strategies to enhance your reading speed and comprehension.

• Strengthen your writing skills by practising writing essays, reports, etc.

• Utilise official IELTS preparation materials, sample tests, and online resources to familiarise yourself with the test structure and practice under timed conditions.

Why do more International Students Choose IELTS for Studying in the UK?

IELTS has always been a popular choice for international students who want to study in the UK. And here’s why:

• Flexible formats: IELTS is offered in two formats – IELTS on Paper and IELTS on Computer. You have the flexibility to opt from any of the two formats

• Face-to-face speaking test: Real-life trainers are better evaluators than a machine, they understand the expressions, and emotions and will comfort you at the time of the test. While a machine will go buy the rule book

• Exam frequency: IELTS is conducted up to 4 times a month for IELTS on Paper and up to 7 days a week and 3 times a day for computer-delivered format

• Quicker results: IELTS on Computer results within 2 days

Test Fee for IELTS

You can take your test on paper or computer, whichever is convenient for you. For more information: Fees for IELTS for UK

What to do if the IELTS Band Score for UK is not high enough?

If you feel that your English skills are still not up to the mark with what is required to score a good band, then you might need to put in some extra time and effort for better preparation. At IDP, we have a range of free materials available to help you prepare for your IELTS exam. IELTS is an essential language test that you need to attempt and score well to gain admission to a university abroad. Don’t worry, if you have any queries, we would be happy to help you. So, feel free to walk into any of your nearest IDP IELTS centres and we’ll be happy to guide you.

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