There are many reasons why students choose to study in the UK such as: high standards of education and living, a diverse student body, exciting career and travel opportunities and the chance to practice and perfect your English skills! However, there are a few things to consider before studying at a UK university. One of these is understanding whether or not your chosen institution requires an IELTS test or not.
What is IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a popular language assessment exam used by institutions all over the world to assess the language skills of potential international students.
The test consists of four sections: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Upon completion of the three hour test, applicants receive an overall score for all of these components, giving UK institutions an understanding of applicants’ English skills. Although the IELTS exam is a commonly used test in the UK, there are options to get a UK study visa without IELTS.
How to study in UK without IELTS
Along with the IELTS, there are other ways that UK institutions examine applicants’ English language skills. If you haven’t taken the IELTS exam, some other options include:
- Online interview: Some universities may offer online interviews to allow you to show off your English proficiency prior to acceptance.
- English marks obtained in high school: Some universities accept impressive high school grades rather than IELTS proof.
- Pre-sessional English course: Some institutions offer pre-sessional English courses for those who plan to study in UK without having taken an IELTS test. Students can enrol in these courses after being accepted onto their chosen programme. This depends on the university requirements.
- Alternative exams: Consider taking an alternative exam such as TOEFL, Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE), PTE Academic, Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) or the Duolingo English test.
What about the VISA? University requirements to study without IELTS
Wondering if you can get a UK study visa without IELTS? It is possible to get a UK student visa without IELTS, if you can provide the immigration authorities with an acceptance letter from your UK institution and a document to say that you are eligible to apply for a study visa without IELTS.
Applicants can also take the Secure English Language Test (SELT) mandated by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as a valid proof for English proficiency without IELTS.
The Language Gallery offers several specialist pathway programmes to help students improve their English language skills. Upon successful completion of one of these courses, students can study with one of our partner universities without taking an IELTS test.
Click here to learn more about our pathway programmes.
For more information on how to study in the UK, contact your desired institution of choice and enquire about studying in the UK without IELTS.