UK is among the top-rated destinations for international students, thanks to their exceptional standards of education, globally recognized certifications and enriching life experiences. Migrating to pursue further studies in the UK is undoubtedly a progressive carrier plan. However, it entails certain procedures, requirements and guidance.

Students from Sri Lanka, or other countries where English is not the first language, are required to prove their English proficiency. However, is IELTS compulsory for a UK student visa? Let’s get right into it.

What is IELTS?

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a standard testing procedure and language assessment test. It is utilized by international institutes to assess the language proficiency of students who wish to study in English-speaking countries. Passing an IELTS test ensures that the students will not have any communication barriers.

The test has four sections which are reading, writing, listening and speaking. Upon taking this 3-hour test, the student will get an aggregate score on their English language aptitude.

Is it possible to get a UK study visa without IELTS?

Absolutely. While English language is indeed one of the requirements, if you choose to study at a university that waives IELTS, you will not be required to take the test.

Rather than submitting your IELTS scores, you will have to submit a document from the university affirming that you are eligible for the visa.

When can you study in the UK without IELTS?

• If you studied at a school where English was the primary language

Since many universities accept this based on your English medium school scores,  you can show this as proof of your English proficiency.

• If the university considers your X and X11 English subject marks to assess your language skills

You will need at least 70% in the final exams to to qualify initially to enter into the primary universities in the United Kingdom.

• If your university carries out its own interviews to gauge your language proficiency

Since many universities conduct online interviews as part of their application process, these online sessions will be used to analyse your English skills, in which case the IELTS scores will not be required.

• If you take an alternative English language assessment

While IELTS is the most widely accepted English assessment in the UK, several other tests are accepted as well. These include

– TOEFL

-PTE Academic

– Trinity College London’s Integrated Skills in English (ISE)

– Duolingo English test

– Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

Universities mention the tests they accept on the requirements page of their website, so check that before taking any test.

• If the university allows you to take pre-sessional English

In the previously mentioned points, it requires a strong command of English. However, those who are not proficient in the English language can opt for pre-sessional courses without IELTS too.

During these courses, you will acquire language skills in addition to classroom skills as you transition comfortably into a foreign education system.

This option is the best bet for those who are not confident in their English language skills. So ensure that you check your university’s website to know if they offer foundational or pre-sessional courses.

However, if you do need to take the IELTS exam, we are here to make it easier for you. We offer in-house IELTS for both, academic and general candidates. Our experienced tutors follow a unique and comprehensive curriculum to guarantee that you gain the best score to make your dream of studying in the UK a reality.