Date of the last update: 08.05.2025
If you’re planning to study in the United Kingdom in 2025, in most cases, you will need to prove your English language proficiency. The most commonly accepted exam by UK universities is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). This applies to studies in England, as well as Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Table of contents:
- Is IELTS required for studying in the UK?
- What are the IELTS requirements for UK universities in 2025?
- Example IELTS requirements at selected UK universities in 2025
- Where to check English language requirements for studying in the UK?
- Alternatives to IELTS
- Summary
You can read this article in 4 minutes.
Is IELTS required for studying in the UK?
Yes, IELTS Academic is the standard English language requirement for most international applicants. The majority of UK universities expect candidates to submit an IELTS score or an equivalent English language test, such as TOEFL, Cambridge English (CAE or CPE), or Trinity ISE.
The IELTS assesses four key language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the candidate’s English proficiency.
What are the IELTS requirements for UK universities in 2025?
IELTS score requirements vary depending on the university and the level of study (undergraduate vs postgraduate):
- Undergraduate studies: Most institutions require an overall IELTS score between 6.0 and 6.5. Some universities may accept a minimum of 5.5, particularly for foundation or preparatory programs.
- Postgraduate studies (Master’s and PhD): Requirements are generally higher — typically ranging from 6.5 to 7.0, and even more for competitive programs or prestigious institutions.
Many UK universities specify whether a course requires a standard or higher level of English. For example, some programs such as medicine, law, or psychology may have higher English language requirements even within the same university.
Moreover, universities often require a minimum overall IELTS Academic score as well as minimum scores in each test component (reading, writing, listening, speaking). For instance, the University of Oxford requires a standard level of IELTS Academic 7.0 overall, with no less than 6.5 in each component.
You can find precise score requirements and accepted tests on the official course page of each program — this is the best place to check the exact expectations for your chosen field of study.
Example IELTS requirements at selected UK universities in 2025
| University | Minimum IELTS Academic score Standard | Minimum IELTS Academic score Higher |
| University of Oxford | 7.0 | 7.5 |
| University of Cambridge | 7.0 | 7.5 |
| Imperial College London | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 7.0 | – |
| University of St Andrews | 6.5 – 7.5 (depending on course) | – |
| University of Bristol | 5.5 – 7.5 (depending on course) | – |
| University of Manchester | 5.5 – 7.5 (depending on course) | – |
Where to check English language requirements for studying in the UK?
The most up-to-date and reliable information is always available on the official website of each university. Look for sections like “International Admissions,” “Entry Requirements,” or “English Language Requirements.” Be sure to check the details for your specific course, as requirements may vary across programs.
You can also use official UK-wide platforms like UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) to explore courses and application requirements.
Alternatives to IELTS
If you do not plan to take IELTS, make sure that your chosen university accepts other forms of English proficiency. Common alternatives include:
- TOEFL iBT
- Cambridge English: CAE or CPE
- Trinity ISE
Some institutions may also accept previous education in English (e.g., International Baccalaureate – IB diploma).
Summary
Studying in the UK in 2025 typically requires proof of English language proficiency. IELTS Academic remains the most commonly accepted test, with required scores usually ranging from 5.5 to 7.5, depending on the university and program. To ensure a smooth application process, always check the official entry requirements on the university’s website before applying.
